Nebraska Patent of the Month – January 2025

In the realm of precision agriculture and beyond, RealmFive has introduced a transformative invention that redefines how we monitor and analyze sub-surface materials. Their system, comprising a network of sensor nodes, is designed to collect critical data from beneath the surface of materials like soil, grain, or compost, enabling real-time insights into sub-surface characteristics such as moisture, temperature, and electrical conductivity. What sets this invention apart is its innovative use of both underground and partially-exposed sensor nodes, which work in harmony to overcome the limitations of traditional sub-surface sensing systems.

The system’s underground sensor nodes are equipped with robust power supplies and communication devices, allowing them to operate seamlessly below the surface without the need for frequent removal or maintenance. Partially-exposed nodes act as communication relays, ensuring data flows efficiently to a central data gateway. This gateway aggregates and transmits the collected data to a controller, where it can be analyzed and visualized. The system’s wireless transmission pathways are highly adaptable, enabling direct communication between nodes or multi-hop relay networks, ensuring reliable data delivery even in challenging environments.

RealmFive’s invention addresses long-standing challenges in sub-surface sensing, such as limited transmission range, high operational costs, and the risk of sensor damage during field operations. By eliminating the need for wired connections and enabling permanent or semi-permanent installations, this system reduces labor costs and minimizes disruptions to agricultural or industrial processes. Its modular design also allows for scalable deployment, making it accessible to a wide range of users, from small farms to large-scale industrial operations.

This breakthrough not only enhances our ability to monitor sub-surface conditions but also opens new possibilities for optimizing resource management, improving crop yields, and reducing environmental impact. RealmFive’s invention is a testament to the power of innovation in solving real-world problems, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable practices across industries.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

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