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<OL> <LI> Build a knowledge base of noise spectrum of different commodities for determination of moisture content. <LI> Development of a non-intrusive bulk moisture content sensor technology for seed cotton and grains.<LI> Investigate the correspondence of remotely sensed data with data obtained from ground-based measurements for detection of yields and stress on crops and bio-mass.
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Precision agriculture practices require advanced and more precise sensors to make measurements of such things as yield, physical properties, and quantity. This project will investigate the development of new and improved acoustical sensors for determination of physical properties such as moisture in grain and fish pond inventory. <P>
APPROACH: Noise spectrum characterization of commodities will be done in laboratory. Special apparatus will be constructed. Soybean and corn will be used initially in the test; other commodities will be incorporated at a later time. The objective of this portion of the project is to develop a database of spectrum information that will enable the analyses for determination of moisture content. This knowledge base is crucial for future development of robust moisture content sensors that will be an integral part of yield sensors. Acoustical technology will similarly be applied to the quantification of fish in commercial ponds. A floating platform will be used as a means to carry the instrumentation for acoustical fish inventory sensing, the acoustical profile of any empty pond will be acquired and the same will be done when the pond is populated with fish. A statistical method will be developed to correlate the actual content to the acoustical data. If the experiment is successful, a more extensive study in multiple ponds will be conducted and a dedicated autonomous inventory system will be constructed.