Design, Construction and Testing of a Fertilizer Spraying Ugv (unmanned Ground Vehicle) for Soil Sensing and Precise Fertilization

In modern agriculture, efficient and precise fertilizer application is crucial for improving crop yields while minimizing waste and environmental impact. This project focuses on the design, construction, and testing of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) equipped with soil sensing and precision fertilization capabilities. The UGV integrates a soil moisture sensor and an NPK sensor to analyze soil conditions in real time, ensuring that fertilizer is applied only where and when it is needed. Controlled by an Arduino-based system, the machine features a spraying pump and adjustable nozzles to distribute fertilizer accurately across the field.
Testing of the system showed promising results, with the machine achieving consistent and precise fertilizer application, maintaining a deviation of less than 5% from the intended distribution. The integration of real-time soil analysis helped optimize fertilizer use, reducing waste and improving nutrient absorption by crops. However, some challenges were identified, such as difficulty navigating rough or sandy terrain due to limited wheel traction. Future improvements will focus on enhancing mobility, adding a more advanced navigation system, and refining the machine’s adaptability to various field conditions.
This project demonstrates the potential of affordable precision agriculture technology for small- and medium-scale farmers. By improving fertilizer efficiency and reducing manual labor, the UGV offers a practical solution to modern farming challenges, ultimately supporting higher crop productivity and sustainable agricultural practices..