Senior Design Project

My Role:

As a member of the Software Team for this project, I focus on designing and implementing software solutions that enable the ESP32 microcontroller to function effectively within the mesh network. My role involves research of Espressif documentation to ensure that I’m leveraging the full capabilities of the ESP32, including its wireless communication protocols and device features, which are crucial for data collection in field applications. I write code in C to handle data acquisition, processing, and transmission, ensuring that each ESP32 node can reliably measure resistance values from interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) and communicate this data within the network. Additionally, I maintain our Git repository, organizing and managing code updates to ensure seamless collaboration across the team. This role requires careful attention to detail in both coding and documentation, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and optimize microcontroller performance to meet the specific constraints of the project.

Big Picture Contribution:

This project makes a significant contribution to precision agriculture by providing an innovative solution to monitor and optimize pesticide distribution across crop canopies. By developing a wireless mesh network using ESP32 microcontrollers and interdigitated electrodes, the project enables accurate, automated measurement of pesticide coverage at multiple canopy levels, ensuring more effective and targeted pesticide application. This data-driven approach helps improve pesticide stewardship, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact. The ability to analyze spray techniques across different application methods (e.g., drone, boom, airplane) also supports more sustainable agricultural practices, ultimately contributing to increased crop yields and food security as global demands grow.