The IMU sensor for in-situ 3D movement monitoring of particulate matter

The object movement monitoring in three-dimensional space in agriculture allows for adaptation to current needs or planned implementation as a result of predictive analysis. The 3D movement monitoring has the potential for particulate matter movement analysis during handling and processing. Our research employs an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor for in-situ 3D tracking of particulate matter, allowing us to capture detailed movement patterns and enhance our understanding of particle dynamics during the particulate matter interactions with agricultural tools. The sensor utilizes bluetooth technology, a magnetometer modul LSM303 with accelerometer for triggering the sensor, 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyroscope modul LSM6DSL, internal memory and processor unit, allowing it to accurately monitor and record changes in particulate matter movement continuously during the motion. The aim of this contribution was to develop an economically accessible smart sensor, implemented based on a battery-operated concept. The assembly requirement aimed to achieve optimal dimensions to minimize disturbance to particle flow. The influence of layers of particulate matter on the IMU sensor is less pronounced compared to the use of alternative tracing methods. This concept is effective for subsurface tracing beneath specific layers of particulate matter. As a result, XYZ trajectories describing the movement paths of particle clusters within the volume of particulate matter were obtained. These results can be used for predictive analysis of particulate matter behavior. Such findings can significantly contribute to a better understanding of particulate matter dynamics in interaction with tools and its impact on agricultural processes.