Design and Implementation of a Capacitive Leaf Wetness Sensor Based on Capacitance-to-Digital Conversion

Abstract

An innovative implementation of an electronic leaf wetness sensor (LWS) is proposed. It utilizes capacitive sensing, combined with an innovative data acquisition method, which implements a capacitance-to-digital converter. The study explores the design procedure of a capacitive LWS, proposing an analytical approach and emphasizing low manufacturing costs. Since the LWS is intended for Internet-of-Things applications, this article estimates its energy consumption, introducing a boost regulator to optimize power usage, contributing to extend the battery life. The study presents simulation results and experimental validations, including an ad-hoc calibration procedure under controlled conditions. The sensors were tested in real agricultural environments over a complete vegetative season, demonstrating their capability to operate continuously without problems.