A smart tree meter for tracking plant growth

Abstract

Described herein are sensors, systems, and methods for measuring plant size, e.g., size of plant parts such as plant stems, trunks, fruits, vines, and / or other plant part characteristics. In some embodiments, the sensor includes two or more components selected from the group consisting of a dendrometer, an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor. Any of the sensors described herein may relay data to a mobile device or server to inform a user of the plant's health and / or map the sensor's wireless network connectivity.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 239,804, filed September 1, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 394,923, filed August 3, 2022, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to monitoring growth and / or other characteristics of plants and / or plant parts. [Background technology]

[0003] Dendrometers are used to measure the size of plant parts, usually stems, trunks, or fruits. They are primarily research tools, but routine use by farmers is beginning to emerge because of the wealth of information that can be obtained from these measurements.

[0004] Two types of arborescence meters are common: strip arborescence meters and point arborescence meters. Strip arborescence meters can be a simple tape with no electronics that is viewed by a person who measures the circumference of a plant stem / trunk, usually a tree, and then looks at a scale or uses a caliper or another device to measure the change in location of the tape end over time. Other strip arborescence meters use electronic instruments to automatically measure the movement of the strip and transfer this data to an electronic data logger. Point arborescence meters are typically anchored in the relatively stationary, relatively immobile xylem or woody tissue of a tree and use precision linear gauges, such as linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs), to measure the thickness of the living tissue just below the bark.

[0005] These low-technology arborescence meters provide poor data and require significant effort and care to monitor. Thus, there is a need for improved arborescence meters for measuring, for example, plant growth over time, including in real time. These arborescence meters allow for both short-term and long-term monitoring of plant growth and can interface with other devices (such as mobile devices, including smartphones) and thus provide a wealth of data regarding plant growth to a variety of users using devices that are inexpensive and easy to manufacture. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Provided herein are, among other things, "smart" tree meters that allow farmers, gardeners, landscapers, municipal plant managers, land managers, foresters, or any person to monitor plant growth over short and long term periods. These devices can indicate changes in plant size that may occur due to sap flow and growth over the course of a day, an hour, or even seconds to minutes. Over longer periods, these devices can provide data on plant health and whether intervention may be required. These devices, which are low cost to manufacture, can be deployed for long periods of time without maintenance, can be sealed for the life of the device, do not require battery replacement for the life of the device, and can provide a variety of real-time data on size changes (down to micron resolution) as well as temperature, humidity, light, etc. Also, as described herein, they can be fitted to a variety of plant types and parts.

[0007] To achieve these goals and make them available for widespread use, provided herein are devices that are very low cost and can precisely measure plant part diameters of a wide variety of plants of many sizes. These devices also make the data readily available and can transfer that data (e.g., wirelessly, directly, or via a network / server) to a mobile device, server, or other computer system in some way that can simply be used to make decisions or as part of an automated control system for irrigation or fertilization.

[0008] In one aspect, provided herein is a sensor for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics comprising: one or more fasteners configured to be positioned in or around a plant part; two or more components selected from the group consisting of a dendrometer, an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor; a processor; and a power supply.

[0009] In some embodiments, the processor comprises a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, one or both of the two or more components are affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, all of the two or more components are affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the PCB comprises an epoxy fiberglass composite.

[0010] In some embodiments, the power supply comprises a battery. In some embodiments, the battery is a coin cell battery. In some embodiments, the battery is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the power supply comprises a solar panel. In some embodiments, the power supply comprises an integrated solar panel, a hybrid capacitor, and a lithium battery. In some embodiments, the solar panel is affixed to the PCB.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a housing, e.g., enclosing at least the processor and the power supply. In some embodiments, the housing is or comprises plastic, e.g., molded plastic. In some embodiments, the housing is or comprises a polymer resin. In some embodiments, the plastic or polymer resin is glass filled. In some embodiments, the plastic or polymer resin comprises about 10 to about 40% glass, e.g., about 30% glass. In some embodiments, the processor and magnetometer are encapsulated in a sealed overmolded housing that includes an O-ring. In some embodiments, the overmolded housing includes a removable lid that covers the battery. In some embodiments, the housing is a single piece of overmolded plastic that lacks seals, joints, or fasteners.

[0012] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer. In some embodiments, the dendrometer comprises a plunger having a cap and a shaft, the cap configured to be positioned relative to the plant part, the plunger configured to move laterally in proportion to a change in plant size when the cap is positioned relative to the plant part, a magnet mounted on or within the shaft, the magnet configured to move laterally in association with the plunger, and a magnetometer configured to detect a position of the magnet. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect a position of the magnet along multiple axes, a radial axis, or a single plane. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect a position of the magnet with micron-scale resolution. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect a position of the magnet along multiple axes, e.g., along a radial axis. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect a position of the magnet using a ratiometric measurement.

[0013] In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure changes in diameter or radius of the plant part. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure plant part size multiple times per day, or at intervals of 15 minutes, 5 minutes, 5 seconds, 5 seconds to 1 hour, or 5 seconds to 15 minutes. In some embodiments, the magnet is a neodymium magnet. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a PCB and the magnetometer is affixed to the PCB.

[0014] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the accelerometer is a 3-axis accelerometer. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a PCB and the accelerometer is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an optical sensor. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a PCB and the optical sensor is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a humidity sensor. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a PCB and the humidity sensor is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an air temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a PCB and the air temperature sensor is affixed to the PCB.

[0015] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer, and one or more of an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer, an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor.

[0016] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a transmitter or transceiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a Bluetooth® radio or transceiver, such as a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) radio or transceiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a Long Range (LoRa) transceiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a Near Field Communication (NFC) transceiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter is affixed to the PCB.

[0017] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise a screw, a threaded rod, or a nail, the screw, the threaded rod, or the nail being configured to be positioned within the plant part and to mount the sensor to the plant part. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise one or more curved arms configured to be positioned around the plant part. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise two curved arms arranged in a U or V shape. In some embodiments, the curved arms are configured to be positioned around the plant part opposite the plunger cap. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners further comprise an elastic strap configured to be wrapped around the sensor and the plant part. In some embodiments, the screw, the threaded rod, or the nail comprises stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or titanium. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a nut configured to be positioned around the thread between the sensor and the plant part. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a second nut configured to be positioned around the thread on a face of the sensor distal to the plant part. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners include a screw having a first end and a second end, and the sensor further includes a compression limiting element having a first opening and a second opening, and a captive screw, the first end of the screw being positioned within the plant part and configured to mount the sensor to the plant part, the first opening of the compression limiting element being configured to receive the second end of the screw, and the second opening of the compression limiting element being configured to receive the captive screw. In some embodiments, the sensor further includes a retaining ring configured to be positioned around the captive screw. In some embodiments, the sensor further includes a first nut configured to be positioned around the threaded rod between the plant part and the sensor, and a second nut configured to be positioned around the threaded rod adjacent to the sensor and distal to the plant part.In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a hollow shuttle positioned about the plunger shaft. In some embodiments, the plunger cap further comprises a gimbal. In some embodiments, the plunger cap is or comprises molded plastic. In some embodiments, the plunger cap is less than about 3 mm thick. In some embodiments, the plunger cap is about 10 mm thick. 2 ~ approx. 100mm 2 In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a spring surrounding or affixed to the plunger. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a pull tab attached to the plunger shaft opposite the plunger cap. In some embodiments, the plunger shaft comprises aluminum or stainless steel. In some embodiments, the plunger shaft is a partial or full hollow cylinder and the magnet is a cylindrical magnet positioned inside the plunger shaft.

[0018] In some embodiments, the plant is a tree or woody plant. In some embodiments, the plant part is a stem, trunk, stem, or branch. In some embodiments, the plant is a crop tree. In some embodiments, the plant is a citrus, olive, nut, cacao, oak, pine, sequoia, "strawberry", or maple. In some embodiments, the plant is a vine. In some embodiments, the plant part is a trunk, shoot, branch, culm, fruit, or stem. In some embodiments, the vine is a grape vine.

[0019] In one aspect, provided herein is a sensor for measuring plant part size comprising: a) one or more fasteners configured to be positioned around a plant part, the fasteners comprising a rotatable element, the rotatable element configured to rotate in proportion to a change in plant size when positioned around the plant part; b) a magnet, the magnet configured to rotate according to the rotatable element; c) a rotation sensor configured to detect rotation of the magnet; d) a processor; and e) a power supply.

[0020] In some embodiments according to any of the embodiments described herein, the magnet is configured such that the north-south axis of the magnet is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotatable element. In some embodiments, the rotation sensor is a Hall sensor. In some embodiments, the Hall sensor is positioned such that the Z axis of the Hall sensor is parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable element. In some embodiments, the degree of rotation of the rotatable element is linear with respect to plant part size by a constant factor. In some embodiments, the constant factor is about 10 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, the constant factor is constant over a dynamic range of plant part sizes. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to 24 mm in diameter.

[0021] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise at least a first stationary arm having a base and a rotatable arm having a base, a magnet is positioned in the rotatable arm, and a change in size of the plant part causes the rotation of the rotatable arm. In some embodiments, at least the first stationary arm and the rotatable arm are curved. In some embodiments, at least the first stationary arm and the rotatable arm are curved in opposite directions. In some embodiments, the plant part is contacted by three contact lines, a first line on the first stationary arm, a second line on the rotatable arm, and a third line on the sensor opposite the first and / or second lines. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a torsion spring, the torsion spring being connected to the first stationary arm and the rotatable arm. In some embodiments, the base of the rotating arm and the base of the first stationary arm are connected at a hinge comprising a torsion spring. In some embodiments, the position of the base of the first stationary arm is configured to slide relative to the base of the rotating arm such that sliding the base of the first stationary arm a greater distance from the base of the rotating arm causes an increase in the minimum diameter that can be measured by the sensor and a decrease in the minimum change in size that can be measured by the sensor. In some embodiments, the rotation sensor is positioned within the housing of the sensor. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners further comprise a second stationary arm. In some embodiments, the rotation sensor is positioned within the second stationary arm.

[0022] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners include a clip and a flexible tape with a first end and a second end, the first end is attached to the rotatable drum, a magnet is positioned within the rotatable drum, the second end is configured to be attached to the sensor with the clip, a first section of the flexible tape with the first end is configured to be wrapped around the rotatable drum, a second section of the flexible tape with the second end is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and attached to the sensor with the clip at the second end, and the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to the change in size of the plant part. In some embodiments, the flexible tape includes a perforated material, polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), a fluorinated material, a composite material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the composite material includes Kevlar, fiberglass, or a combination thereof.

[0023] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise a ribbon, a clasp, and a rotatable drum, where a magnet is positioned within the rotatable drum, where the ribbon is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and fastened to the sensor with the clasp, where the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to changes in size of the plant part. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a torsion spring, where the torsion spring is connected to the rotatable drum, where the torsion spring applies a torsion to the rotatable drum or a connection thereto of the sensor.

[0024] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners comprise a belt with multiple teeth, a clasp, and a toothed pulley, a magnet is positioned within the toothed pulley, the belt is configured to wrap around the plant part and fasten to the sensor with the clasp, and the toothed pulley is configured to interlock with one or more of the teeth of the belt and rotate in proportion to the change in size of the plant part. In some embodiments, the belt comprises Kevlar, metal, fiberglass, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the teeth are spaced about 2 mm apart. In some embodiments, a rotational sensor is positioned within the housing of the sensor.

[0025] In some embodiments according to any of the embodiments described herein, the sensor further comprises a transmitter. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a Bluetooth radio or transceiver, e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio or transceiver. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a housing. In some embodiments, the housing is or includes molded plastic. In some embodiments, the rotation sensor, the processor, and / or the power source are positioned within the housing. In some embodiments, the power source comprises a battery and / or a solar panel. In some embodiments, the processor comprises a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a visual identifier. In some embodiments, the visual identifier is a QR code or a barcode. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. In some embodiments, the plant part is a stem, trunk, shoot, culm, body, branch, vine, trunk, or fruit of the plant.

[0026] In another aspect, provided herein is a system for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising a sensor according to any one of the above embodiments and a mobile device or server, wherein the sensor is connected to the mobile device or server via wireless communication and configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, the sensor is connected to the mobile device or server via Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), Long Range (LoRa), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit data related to the rotation sensor, plant part size, wireless communication signal strength, or a combination thereof to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of sensors according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein each sensor of the plurality is connected to the mobile device or server via wireless communication and configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, each sensor of the plurality is connected to the mobile device or server via Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), Long Range (LoRa), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, each sensor in the plurality is configured to transmit data related to wireless communication signal strength to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, the mobile device comprises a GPS sensor. In some embodiments, the GPS sensor is configured to obtain location information using the GPS sensor and associate the location information with the plurality of sensors. In some embodiments, the mobile device comprises a camera or other image sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit data related to one or more of a magnetometer, a plant part size, a wireless communication signal strength, an accelerometer, a light sensor, a humidity sensor, an air temperature sensor, or a combination thereof to the mobile device and / or server.In some embodiments, the system further comprises a server, where each sensor of the plurality is connected to the server and configured to transmit data to the mobile device.

[0027] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for tracking plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising measuring a size and / or other plant part characteristic of the plant part using a sensor of the present disclosure, the measurement being based, at least in part, on data collected by a component of the sensor. In some embodiments, the method comprises, prior to measuring, mounting the sensor to the plant or plant part, where one or more fasteners are positioned in or around the plant part. In some embodiments, the method further comprises measuring a size and / or other plant part characteristic of the plant part using a sensor of the present disclosure at a second time after the first time, where the measurement of the size and / or other plant part characteristic at the second time is based, at least in part, on data collected by a component of the sensor.

[0028] In another aspect, provided herein is a method for tracking plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising: a) measuring the plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics at a first time with a sensor or system as described in any one of the above embodiments; and b) measuring the plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics at a second time after the first time with the sensor or system. In some embodiments, the method comprises, for example, measuring the size and / or other plant part characteristics of a plurality of plant parts using a system of the present disclosure.

[0029] It should be understood that one, some, or all of the properties of the various embodiments described herein may be combined to form other embodiments of the present invention. These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art. These and other embodiments of the present invention are further described by the following detailed description. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] The present application can be understood by reference to the following description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0031] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A depicts a vertical cross-sectional view of a clip dendrometer, according to some embodiments.

[0032] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B depicts a top view of a clip arborometer with three sized stems, according to some embodiments. The dots represent the nominal contact line with a cylindrical object. Three contact points provide a kinematically stable grip at all stem sizes in the range. The arm curvature shown produces a consistent ratio of angled arm travel versus stem diameter change. 10 degrees equals 1 millimeter over a range of stems from 4 millimeters to 24 millimeters in diameter. Knurled finger tabs allow easy opening of the clip arms using one hand.

[0033] [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C depicts a clip dendrometer on a plant.

[0034] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A depicts a horizontal cross-sectional view of a tape measurer, according to some embodiments.

[0035] [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B depicts a vertical cross-sectional view of a tape measurer, according to some embodiments.

[0036] [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C depicts a tape measure on a plant.

[0037] [Figure 3A] 3A depicts three views of a ribbon arborescence meter, according to some embodiments. The flared support arms receive thinner stems in a V-shaped section and transition to a curved section on larger diameter trunks. One device is stable on a wide variety of stem diameters.

[0038] [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B depicts a ribbon arborescence meter on a potted plant. The additional ribbon allows the arborescence meter to be placed on much larger plants. The small drum diameter results in high measurement sensitivity. The ribbon is pulled snugly and then a friction clip holds the ribbon in place. The ribbon pulls the device towards the plant while the V-shaped support keeps the sensor from vibrating.

[0039] [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A depicts a perspective view and two cross-sectional views of a timing belt dendrometer, according to some embodiments. The upper and lower flared V-arms are for stable positioning on the stem / trunk. The rotating clip is for easy fastening of the timing belt at the desired location. The pulley with teeth is for engaging the timing belt. A spring resists rotation and a magnet is fixed in the lower end of the pulley above the Hall sensor on a PCB in a sealed housing.

[0040] [Figure 4B] 4B depicts a timing belt gauge with the clip in a partially open and open position. The retaining teeth engage and secure the belt.

[0041] [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C depicts a timing belt arborescence meter on a tree.

[0042] [Diagram 5] Figure 5 depicts the measured change in diameter of six tomato plant stems, one rubber tree stem, and one reference cylinder using a mixture of clip-style (ed) and band-style (TM) dendrometers. One tomato plant was measured using two dendrometers, one positioned directly above another on the stem (ed3 and ed4).

[0043] [Figure 6] Figure 6 depicts the measured change in diameter of a Fusarium tree as the water level fluctuated over a period of approximately 3 days. Diameters were measured and reported every 30 seconds using a tape-type dendrometer.

[0044] [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A depicts the measured changes in diameter, air temperature, and relative humidity of the six trees during the measurement period. [Figure 7A-1] FIG. 7A depicts the measured changes in diameter, air temperature, and relative humidity of the six trees during the measurement period.

[0045] [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B depicts the measured changes in magnetometer temperature, battery level, and light intensity during the measurement period. [Figure 7B-1] FIG. 7B depicts the measured changes in magnetometer temperature, battery level, and light intensity during the measurement period.

[0046] [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C depicts the measured changes in the X, Y, and Z axes of the accelerometer during the measurement period. [Figure 7C-1] FIG. 7C depicts the measured changes in the X, Y, and Z axes of the accelerometer during the measurement period.

[0047] [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A depicts the measured changes in diameter (top panel), air temperature (middle panel), and relative humidity (bottom panel) of one tree during the measurement period. [Figure 8A-1] FIG. 8A depicts the measured changes in diameter (top panel), air temperature (middle panel), and relative humidity (bottom panel) of one tree during the measurement period.

[0048] [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B depicts the measured changes in magnetometer temperature (top panel), battery level (middle panel), and light intensity (bottom panel) during the measurement period. [Figure 8B-1] FIG. 8B depicts the measured changes in magnetometer temperature (top panel), battery level (middle panel), and light intensity (bottom panel) during the measurement period.

[0049] [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C depicts the measured changes in the accelerometer's X-axis (top panel), Y-axis (middle panel), and Z-axis (bottom panel) during the measurement period. [Figure 8C-1] FIG. 8C depicts the measured changes in the accelerometer's X-axis (top panel), Y-axis (middle panel), and Z-axis (bottom panel) during the measurement period.

[0050] [Figure 9A] Figure 9A depicts a device for measuring the diameter of a tree. The device includes a plunger, a magnetometer (size), an accelerometer (tilt), an antenna, and components that measure humidity, temperature, and light spectrum. The tree includes bark (cork tissue), growing layer (phloem), and hardwood (xylem).

[0051] [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B depicts a device that measures the diameter of a tree after it has increased in diameter. The device includes a plunger, a magnetometer (size), an accelerometer (tilt), an antenna, and components that measure humidity, temperature, and light spectrum. The tree includes bark (cork tissue), growth layer (phloem), and hardwood (xylem). The arrows indicate the lateral movement of the plunger as the tree diameter increases.

[0052] [Figure 10] Figure 10 depicts the measured change in diameter of a lime tree over a two month period. The daily maximum (early morning), daily minimum (late night), daily variation, tree water deficit (TWD), and the size of a human hair (approximately 80 μm) are shown.

[0053] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 depicts the device used to measure the change in diameter of a lime tree over a two month period.

[0054] [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0055] [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B depicts an oblique internal view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0056] [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C depicts a cross-sectional view of an arboremeter for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0057] [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D depicts a cross-sectional view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0058] [Figure 12E] FIG. 12E depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0059] [Figure 12F] FIG. 12F depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0060] [Figure 12G] FIG. 12G depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0061] [Figure 12H] FIG. 12H depicts a cross-sectional view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0062] [Figure 12I] FIG. 12I depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0063] [Figure 12J] FIG. 12J depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0064] [Figure 12K] FIG. 12K depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0065] [Figure 12L] FIG. 12L depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0066] [Figure 12M] FIG. 12M depicts a perspective view of an arboretum for measuring the diameter of vines and other small stems.

[0067] [Figure 12N] FIG. 12N shows two arborescence gauges measuring the diameter of two grape vines.

[0068] [Figure 12O] FIG. 12O shows a close-up of an arborescence measuring the diameter of a grape vine.

[0069] [Figure 12P] FIG. 12P shows a perspective view of two arborescence gauges measuring the diameter of two grape vines.

[0070] [Figure 13-1] 13A and 13B show perspective views of an integrated tree sensor.

[0071] [Figure 13-2] Figure 13C shows a cross-sectional view of the integrated tree sensor, and Figure 13D shows a cross-sectional view of a plunger for the integrated tree sensor.

[0072] [Figure 13-3] Figure 13E shows a perspective view, Figure 13F shows a cross-sectional view, and Figure 13G shows a cross-sectional view of the integrated tree sensor.

[0073] [Figure 13-4] Figure 13H shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor. Figure 13I shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor.

[0074] [Figure 13-5] Figure 13J shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor, Figure 13K shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor, Figure 13L shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor, and Figure 13M shows a perspective internal view of the integrated tree sensor.

[0075] [Figure 13-6] Figure 13N shows a cross-sectional view of the integrated tree sensor. Figure 13O shows a cross-sectional internal view of the integrated tree sensor.

[0076] [Figure 13-7] FIG. 13P shows a perspective view of the gimbal tip for the plunger of the integrated tree sensor.

[0077] [Figure 13-8] FIG. 13Q shows a cross-sectional internal view of the integrated tree sensor.

[0078] [Figure 14A]14A-14C show exemplary mounting hardware components for mounting an integrated tree sensor to a tree trunk or other large plant part. FIG. 14A shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor with a captive screw and a re-adjustable mounting screw. FIG. 14B shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a threaded rod and nut. FIG. 14C shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a longer threaded rod and nut that can be adjusted over time to account for radial tree growth and reposition the plunger to the appropriate position (e.g., amount of extension). [Figure 14B] 14A-14C show exemplary mounting hardware components for mounting an integrated tree sensor to a tree trunk or other large plant part. FIG. 14A shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor with a captive screw and a re-adjustable mounting screw. FIG. 14B shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a threaded rod and nut. FIG. 14C shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a longer threaded rod and nut that can be adjusted over time to account for radial tree growth and reposition the plunger to the appropriate position (e.g., amount of extension). [Figure 14C] 14A-14C show exemplary mounting hardware components for mounting an integrated tree sensor to a tree trunk or other large plant part. FIG. 14A shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor with a captive screw and a re-adjustable mounting screw. FIG. 14B shows a simplified side view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a threaded rod and nut. FIG. 14C shows a simplified cross-sectional view of an integrated tree sensor mounted to a tree trunk using a longer threaded rod and nut that can be adjusted over time to account for radial tree growth and reposition the plunger to the appropriate position (e.g., amount of extension).

[0079] [Figure 15A]Figures 15A and 15B show example accelerometer data obtained from two integrated tree sensors mounted next to each other on a leaning section of a lemon eucalyptus tree. Figure 15A shows lean over time, with blue dots (top) indicating deviations from the X-axis and orange dots (bottom) indicating deviations from the Y-axis. Figure 15B shows pitch (top panel), roll (middle panel), and air temperature (bottom panel) measured over time (days). [Figure 15B] Figures 15A and 15B show example accelerometer data obtained from two integrated tree sensors mounted next to each other on a leaning section of a lemon eucalyptus tree. Figure 15A shows lean over time, with blue dots (top) indicating deviations from the X-axis and orange dots (bottom) indicating deviations from the Y-axis. Figure 15B shows pitch (top panel), roll (middle panel), and air temperature (bottom panel) measured over time (days). [Figure 15B-1] Figures 15A and 15B show example accelerometer data obtained from two integrated tree sensors mounted next to each other on a leaning section of a lemon eucalyptus tree. Figure 15A shows lean over time, with blue dots (top) indicating deviations from the X-axis and orange dots (bottom) indicating deviations from the Y-axis. Figure 15B shows pitch (top panel), roll (middle panel), and air temperature (bottom panel) measured over time (days). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0080] Detailed Description The following description sets forth example methods, parameters, and equivalents, however, it should be recognized that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the disclosure, but instead is provided as a description of example embodiments. Sensors for measuring plant part size and / or other characteristics

[0081] Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to sensors for measuring plant size (e.g., size of a plant part such as a stem, trunk, sprout, culm, body, branch, vine, trunk, or fruit) and / or other plant part characteristics (e.g., characteristics of the plant part itself or its surrounding environment). By collecting data from multiple components integrated within the sensor, the sensors of the present disclosure are believed to enable richer data sets that can be combined with and cross-validated against each other, thereby providing a more complete picture of the plant than existing devices.

[0082] In some embodiments, the sensor of the present disclosure comprises one or more fasteners configured to be positioned in or around a plant part, a processor, a power supply, and two or more components selected from the group consisting of a dendrometer, an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer and one or more of an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer, an accelerometer, an air temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor.

[0083] In some embodiments, the sensor's processor comprises a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, the PCB comprises, for example, an epoxy fiberglass composite (e.g., G10 or FR4) in a laminate layer. In some embodiments, the PCB comprises a material that has stable structural properties and a low coefficient of thermal expansion, for example, compared to injection molded plastics.

[0084] In some embodiments, one or more components of the sensor of the present disclosure (e.g., the magnetometer of the present disclosure, the transmitter, the solar panel, the accelerometer, the light sensor, the humidity sensor, the air temperature sensor, the battery, and / or the mounting screw or compression limiting element) are affixed to the PCB. Thus, the PCB can act as a structural element in addition to data processing / collection. Plastic parts manufactured by injection molding for high volume low-cost production undergo subtle dimensional changes when under load, which is a time-dependent viscoelastic flow known as creep strain, that can occur slowly over time. Even when under very low or no load, irreversible shape changes can occur over time due to sun exposure, material relaxation, humidity and temperature changes. Therefore, it is desirable for high-precision measurement devices, especially those that need to provide measurements over long periods of time, to use more stable materials such as aluminum and stainless steel alloys. However, metals are relatively expensive and are not suitable for enclosures in which RF energy must be transmitted or received. Electronic components are mounted on PCBs, which may be made from laminated layers of epoxy fiberglass composite materials commonly known as G10 or FR4. These materials have very stable structural properties and low coefficients of thermal expansion, especially when compared to injection molded plastics. Therefore, using PCBs to support these other components may provide a stable, cost-effective design.

[0085] In some embodiments, the power supply for the sensor comprises a battery, a solar panel or cell, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the battery is a coin cell battery. In some embodiments, the battery is affixed to the PCB.

[0086] In some embodiments, the power supply comprises an integrated solar panel, a hybrid capacitor, and a lithium battery. In some embodiments, the sensor can charge the capacitor / battery during the day and operate in the dark on the charged hybrid cap for days or weeks of operation. The device may operate differently depending on the availability of energy, since the energy comes from the sun and the amount will vary depending on the weather, geographic location, and the location of the device on the plant (or even the possibility of residue or deposits in direct contact with the solar panel surface). While higher data collection and transmission rates would be possible when the power is high, the device may moderate as the light, and therefore the power, both decline.

[0087] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a housing. In some embodiments, the housing is or comprises a plastic or polymeric resin. In some embodiments, the plastic or polymeric resin is glass filled. For example, the plastic or polymeric resin can comprise about 10-40% glass, about 20-40% glass, about 30-40% glass, about 10-30% glass, about 15-35% glass, about 25-35% glass, about 10% glass, about 15% glass, about 20% glass, about 25% glass, about 30% glass, about 35% glass, or about 40% glass. In some embodiments, the housing is not an RF shield. In some embodiments, the housing is not made of an RF shielding material.

[0088] In some embodiments, the rotation sensor, processor, and / or power source are located within the housing. In some embodiments, the housing encapsulates at least the processor and the power source (e.g., a battery). In some embodiments, the housing encapsulates at least the processor and one or more additional components. In some embodiments, the housing encapsulates at least the processor and the magnetometer. In some embodiments, the housing is a sealed, overmolded housing with an O-ring. For example, the battery of the sensor can be encapsulated using a removable lid that covers the battery, allowing the remainder of the sensor to be sealed within the housing. In some embodiments, the sensor acts as an encapsulated PCA (printer circuit assembly) since all of the mechanical components for the magnet plunger are affixed to the PCA. After manufacturing and testing, the entire PCA can be overmolded and hermetically sealed. This protects the electronic components from water and contamination, while other components such as the solar panel, the measurement components of the humidity or air temperature sensor, the LEDs, the mounting surface, or the plunger can be exposed. In some embodiments, the housing is overmolded as a single piece, i.e., devoid of any seals, joints, or fasteners such as snaps, screws, and the like. In some embodiments, the housing is overmolded as a single piece (i.e., devoid of any seals, joints, or fasteners such as snaps, screws, and the like), and the sensor comprises an integrated solar panel, hybrid capacitor, and lithium battery. Advantageously, it is believed that this provides a power source that is operational for the life of the sensor, and allows a single-piece overmolded housing to be used (as the housing does not need to be opened to access and / or replace the battery), thereby providing a permanently hermetically sealed enclosure for the PCB / PCA and other components.Techniques and systems for overmolding are known in the art, including low pressure overmolding, for example, as used with Henkel TECHNOMELT® thermoplastic. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a thermoplastic, such as Henkel TECHNOMELT® thermoplastic.

[0089] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a dendrometer. In some embodiments, the dendrometer comprises a plunger having a cap and a shaft, a magnet attached to or within the shaft, and a magnetometer configured to detect the position of the magnet (e.g., along multiple axes, a radial axis, or a single plane). In some embodiments, the magnet is configured to move laterally in association with the plunger. In some embodiments, the cap is configured to be positioned relative to the plant part, and the plunger is configured to move laterally (e.g., along multiple axes, a radial axis, or a single plane) in proportion to the change in plant size when the cap is positioned relative to the plant part. Other dendrometers contemplated for use herein are described below. Any of the dendrometers of the present disclosure may find use in a sensor as described herein. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure a change in diameter or radius of a plant or plant part.

[0090] In some embodiments, the magnetometer measures the field strength in two orthogonal axes (e.g., X-axis and Y-axis). Thus, the angle of the field lines can be calculated and related to the linear position of the plunger to micron resolution. For example, a ratiometric measurement of the plunger's position can be used based on the arctangent of the X / Y axis position. This differs from simpler single-axis magnetometers. In some embodiments, the magnetometer is affixed to the PCB or PCA of the present disclosure.

[0091] In some embodiments, the magnet is a rare earth magnet. In some embodiments, the magnet is a neodymium magnet. In some embodiments, the magnet produces a field characterized by a curved field path that changes angle relative to a fixed point as the plunger moves in and out following plant movement. In some embodiments, the magnet is characterized by little change to the field characteristics over the life of the device unless it is kept at a reasonably low temperature, i.e., not artificially heated. In some embodiments, the magnet is disposed within a plunger assembly that rests on the surface of the tree or woody plant, preferably with a very small amount of cork tissue between the plunger and the plant's phloem, which expands and contracts in a state associated with changes in the plant's turgor or water potential. In some embodiments, the magnet is a cylindrical or disk-shaped magnet that is positioned inside the plunger shaft.

[0092] In some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect the position of the magnet with micron-scale resolution. For example, in some embodiments, the magnetometer is configured to detect the position of the magnet with a minimum resolution of at least 1 mm, at least 500 μm, at least 250 μm, at least 100 μm, at least 50 μm, at least 25 μm, at least 10 μm, at least 5 μm, or at least 1 μm. In some embodiments, the magnet generates a magnetic field characterized by curved lines of magnetic flux. In some embodiments, the angle of the magnetic field may be determined based on the strength of the magnetic field along at least two axes (e.g., along multiple axes, radial axes, or a single plane) detected by the magnetometer. In some embodiments, the angle may be equal to or related to the arctangent of the magnetic field strength along a first axis divided by the magnetic field strength along a second axis. When the sensor is attached to a plant part and the diameter of the plant part expands or contracts, the angle of the magnetic field generated by the magnet may change. The change in the angle of the magnetic field may be related to a linear change in the diameter of the plant part. In some embodiments, the linear change in diameter of the plant part may be approximately linearly related to the change in angle of the magnetic field. In some embodiments, the linear change in diameter may be related to the change in angle of the magnetic field by a seventh order polynomial. In some embodiments, the linear change in diameter may be related to the change in angle of the magnetic field by a seventh order polynomial during calibration of the sensor.

[0093] In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to provide real-time measurements of the plants or plant parts of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure plant part size multiple times per day. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure plant part size at intervals of 3 hours, 2 hours, 1 hour, 30 minutes, 15 minutes, 10 minutes, 5 minutes, 1 minute, 45 seconds, 30 seconds, 15 seconds, or 5 seconds. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to measure plant part size at intervals of 5 seconds to 1 hour, 5 seconds to 15 minutes, 5 seconds to 5 minutes, 5 seconds to 1 minute, 1 minute to 1 hour, 1 minute to 30 minutes, 1 minute to 15 minutes, 10 minutes to 1 hour, or 10 minutes to 30 minutes.

[0094] A variety of fasteners are contemplated for use in the sensor of the present disclosure, and one of skill in the art can appropriately select the fastener type based, for example, on the type of plant part to be measured. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners can include a screw, a threaded rod, or a nail. The fastener can be configured to be positioned in or on the plant part and mount the sensor to the plant part. The screw, threaded rod, or nail can be made from a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or titanium. In some embodiments, the screw can be used to mount the sensor onto the plant part (e.g., a woody branch or trunk) in combination with one or more nuts, such as a nut configured to be positioned around the thread between the sensor body and the plant part (e.g., nut 1316 in FIGS. 13C and 13Q), and / or a nut configured to be positioned around the thread adjacent to the sensor body but distal to the plant part. In some embodiments, the screw is affixed to the PCB / PCA of the present disclosure.

[0095] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a compression limiting element. In some embodiments, the compression limiting element can provide a durable interface between a fastener (e.g., a mounting screw) and the remainder of the sensor. For example, a compression limiter can be disposed within the PCB / PCA of the present disclosure to provide an interface between the PCB / PCA and a fastener such as a mounting screw (see, e.g., compression limiter 1322 in FIG. 13C or compression limiter 1404 in FIG. 14A). In some embodiments, the fastener (e.g., a screw) passes through the compression limiting element. In some embodiments, the compression limiting element is configured to be positioned around the fastener (e.g., a screw). In some embodiments, the compression limiting element comprises metal (e.g., a metal collar) or plastic (e.g., a plastic ring). In some embodiments, the compression limiting element is a ring, an O-ring, a collar, or a washer. In some embodiments, the compression limiting element is used in combination with a captive screw such that the mounting screw (e.g., mounting screw 1410 in FIG. 14A) is positioned within the plant part and mounts the sensor, with one end of the compression limiting element (e.g., compression limiter 1404 in FIG. 14A) configured to receive the mounting screw (e.g., at the end opposite the end that is secured within the plant part) and the other end of the compression limiting element configured to receive the captive screw (e.g., captive screw 1408 in FIG. 14A). In some embodiments, the captive screw has a button head with a hex socket. In some embodiments, the captive screw is knurled or flanged. In some embodiments, the captive screw comprises a tamper-resistant drive. In some embodiments, the mounting screw has a hex nut flange whose distal face provides a flat surface on which the proximal face of the compression limiting element rests. This nut shape allows the mounting screw to be inserted into the plant part using a standard nut driver. In some embodiments, the distal end of the mounting screw has a cylindrical protrusion for seating the compression limiting element and female threads for receiving the captive screw. In some embodiments, the mounting screw has a threaded portion and a non-threaded portion. For example, the non-threaded portion can be used to indicate correct placement depth.In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a retention ring configured to be positioned around the captive screw.

[0096] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners can include a threaded rod. In some embodiments, the threaded rod can be used to mount the sensor on a plant part (e.g., a woody branch or trunk) in combination with one or more nuts, such as a nut (e.g., nut 1422 in FIG. 14B or nut 1436 in FIG. 14C) configured to be positioned around the threaded rod between the sensor body and the plant part, and / or a nut (e.g., nut 1424 in FIG. 14B or nut 1434 in FIG. 14C) configured to be positioned around a thread adjacent to the sensor body but distal to the plant part. In some embodiments, the threaded rod and the nut configured to be positioned around the threaded rod between the sensor body and the plant part comprise a single piece of hardware that is fused together, or the nut is bonded, brazed, soldered, or welded to the threaded rod. In some embodiments, the nut configured to be positioned around the screw adjacent to the sensor body but distal to the plant part is knurled or tabbed, hi some embodiments, both nuts are adjustable, for example to allow adjustment of the sensor relative to the plant part without disassembly (see, e.g., FIG. 14C).

[0097] In some embodiments, the fastener can include one or more curved arms configured to be positioned around the plant part. In some embodiments, the fastener can include at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six arms. For example, two curved arms arranged in a U or V shape can be used as illustrated in Figures 12A-12P. In some embodiments, the one or more curved arms receive the plant part in a kinematically determinant manner. These embodiments can be particularly useful for smaller plant parts such as stems, shoots, branches, or vines (e.g., grape vines). In some embodiments, the fastener comprises two or more arms with a size greater than or equal to 0.15, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, or 2.5 inches between the arms. They are small and light enough to fit into tight spaces and are easy to attach securely to small vines, shoots, stems, and branches. For example, in some embodiments, the vines, shoots, stems, or branches are less than or equal to 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches in diameter, or greater than or equal to 0.15 inches and less than or equal to 1 inch in diameter.

[0098] In some embodiments, one or more elastic straps configured to be wrapped around the sensor and plant parts can also be used in combination with the curved arms (see, for example, elastic strap 1230 in Figures 12N-12P). In some embodiments, the elastic straps are durable against UV radiation.

[0099] 9A and 9B illustrate an exemplary sensor, according to some embodiments. The sensor comprises a plunger, a magnetometer (size), an accelerometer (tilt), an antenna, and components that measure humidity, temperature, and light spectrum. The sensor is mounted on the tree trunk using a mounting screw onto which the rest of the sensor is clamped. As the tree grows and its diameter increases, the expansion of the phloem pushes the plunger sideways (see arrow in FIG. 9B), and this change in position is monitored by the magnetometer, which detects the position of a magnet affixed to the plunger. In this way, the sensor measures the size of the plant part (in this case, the tree trunk). In addition to the magnetometer measuring tree diameter (using magnet position as a surrogate indicator), the light sensor measures sunlight or lack thereof, the temperature sensor measures air temperature, the humidity sensor measures relative humidity, and the accelerometer measures the tree's tilt (which may be a precursor to the tree falling and / or indicate a damaged or unattached root system).

[0100] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the accelerometer is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the accelerometer is a 3-axis accelerometer. In some embodiments, the accelerometer measures the tilt of the plant or plant part to which the sensor is mounted. In some embodiments, "tilt" as used herein refers to changes in inclination over a time scale, such as days or longer. In some embodiments, the accelerometer measures the sway of the plant or plant part to which the sensor is mounted. In some embodiments, "sway" as used herein refers to movement over a short period of time, e.g., approximately 1 Hz, or 0.2 Hz to 20 Hz. In some embodiments, the accelerometer measures an impact of the plant or plant part to which the sensor is mounted. In some embodiments, "impact" as used herein refers to a sudden acceleration, which may correspond to, for example, a plant receiving the force of a collision with a vehicle or device. In some embodiments, the accelerometer can be programmed to trigger an alert when the measurement exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, the sensor can trigger an alert when the tilt of the tree exceeds a predetermined threshold tilt value, indicating that the tree or plant part is at risk of falling.

[0101] In some embodiments the sensor comprises an optical sensor, hi some embodiments the optical sensor is affixed to the PCB.

[0102] In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a humidity sensor. In some embodiments, the humidity sensor is affixed to the PCB. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a port for the humidity sensor to make measurements outside of the sensor enclosure. In some embodiments, the humidity sensor measures relative humidity.

[0103] In some embodiments the sensor comprises an air temperature sensor, hi some embodiments the air temperature sensor is affixed to the PCB.

[0104] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a GPS sensor.

[0105] In some embodiments, one or more components of the sensors of the present disclosure can be programmed to trigger a warning, alert, or other notification when a measurement exceeds a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, a processor of the present disclosure can be programmed to trigger a warning, alert, or other notification when a measurement obtained by one or more components of the sensors exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, a sensor can trigger a warning, alert, or other notification when a tree tilt exceeds a predetermined threshold tilt value based on data from an accelerometer, indicating that the tree or plant part is at risk of falling.

[0106] In some embodiments, the sensor of the present disclosure further comprises a transmitter. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a Bluetooth radio or transceiver, for example, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio or transceiver. In some embodiments, the included transmitter is configured to transmit the sensory data wirelessly (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, or 900 MHz transmitter) to a mobile device or server. Other possible wireless networks include narrowband Internet of Things (IoT), LTE-M, and satellite-based networks such as Myriota or Swarm. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a radio. In some embodiments, the transmitter is a transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth transceiver, WiFi transceiver, etc.). In some embodiments, the transmitter is a long-range (LoRa) transceiver or a near-field communication (NFC) transceiver. In some embodiments, the transmitter uses the Lora wireless data transmission system or the LoraWAN network protocol. Advantageously, this provides low-power long-range transmission. In some embodiments, the transmitter uses a frequency band of about 900 MHz. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a chip antenna, e.g., Ignion NN2-2204. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a split dipole antenna, with two wires extending on either side of the sensor. In some embodiments, the transmitter uses a frequency band of about 900 MHz, and the sensor has a ground plane of about 72 mm (1 / 4 wavelength for the 900 MHz frequency band) or longer to complement the active antenna side, which can be a single wire extending in the opposite direction of the ground plane (upwards if the solar panel is below the mounting screw). In some embodiments, the ground plane of this device may be shared with the solar panel.

[0107] Advantageously, collecting data from multiple sensors can be used to compensate diameter change measurements, indirectly compensate to account for mixed signals from the bark that may obscure signals from the living plant layer, calibrate and cross-validate data from multiple sources, and understand factors in tree growth and / or daily expansion / contraction. For example, these data can be used to approximate and / or predict vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and thereby predict biometric tree response. Data can be transmitted via antennas to a server or mobile device, creating a distributed IoT network for data collection. These data can be high-resolution, real-time, and collected within a system (e.g., with multiple sensors mounted on multiple plants) where comparisons between multiple organisms can be made (e.g., comparing growth between organisms in similar conditions, of comparable species, in comparable geographic areas, in comparable weather conditions, in comparable soil conditions, under comparable treatments / watering / irrigation regimes, etc.). Using these data, models can be built for each organism based on observed densitometric signals, collected environmental or weather data, etc., to predict future densitometric signals, for example, based on current environmental signals or conditions. Additionally, variance from the models can help indicate non-measured factors, including soil moisture, pests, disease, toxicity, predation, damage, etc. It is therefore believed that the sensors of the present disclosure may provide a richer data set and a more complete picture of plants and their surrounding environment than existing sensors (see, e.g., www.phytech.com / home).

[0108] In some embodiments, the plunger of the present disclosure comprises a cap and a shaft. In some embodiments, the cap is or includes molded plastic. In some embodiments, the cap has a thickness less than or equal to 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 mm. In some embodiments, the cap has a thickness less than or equal to about 10 mm. 2 ~ approx. 100mm 2 , about 10mm 2 ~ approx. 50mm 2, about 10mm 2 ~ approx. 500mm 2 , or about 10 mm 2 ~ approx. 1,000mm 2 The cap is configured to contact the plant part over a surface area of ​​100 mm. In some embodiments, the cap can be molded in a low friction plastic such as acetal or PETG using, for example, mold side drawing. Ideally, the cap contacts the plant or plant part over a reasonably sized area to achieve consistent measurements and not apply excessive pressure to the contact area. However, some pressure may be advantageous in maintaining consistent contact with the plant or plant part and / or compressing any slight variations in the cork tissue.

[0109] In some embodiments, the cap further comprises a gimbal (e.g., gimbal tip 1308 in Figs. 13A and 13B). In some embodiments, the gimbal is made with a spherical ball point machined into the wood end of the main plunger cylinder that fits into a mating spherical cavity in the tip portion, which can be injection molded plastic. Advantageously, the gimbal allows the contact surface to conform to the surface of the plant or plant part, even if, for example, the sensor is not mounted in perfect alignment. The gimbal provides some flexibility and tilt that helps to keep the contact area reasonably sized; otherwise, the contact area will tend to be a small crescent-shaped area on the side of the plunger tip that makes initial contact, and the contact pressure will vary across this contact patch with the highest pressure at the first contact point. This introduces variables that can potentially affect measurements and produce inconsistent results depending on placement accuracy.

[0110] In some embodiments, the shaft comprises aluminum or stainless steel. In some embodiments, the shaft is a cylinder and the magnet is a cylindrical magnet that is positioned inside the plunger shaft. In some embodiments, the cylinder is hollow. In some embodiments, the cylinder comprises aluminum. In some embodiments, the shaft is extendable, e.g., a threaded shaft extension. In some embodiments, the shaft is impregnated with PFTE or oil.

[0111] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a hollow shuttle positioned about the plunger shaft (see, for example, FIG. 13Q). In some embodiments, the shuttle comprises a resin, such as a glass-filled resin of the present disclosure.

[0112] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a spring surrounding or affixed to the plunger, hi some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a pull tab attached to the plunger shaft opposite the cap (see, e.g., tab 1208 in FIG. 12A).

[0113] In some embodiments, the sensor or housing comprises a removable substrate that allows a user to access the PCB / PCA, hi some embodiments, the removable substrate comprises one or more screws, one or more bolts, and / or one or more rivets.

[0114] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises one or more identifiers. In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a visual identifier. In an embodiment, the visual identifier is a QR code or a barcode. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

[0115] Advantageously, the sensor of the present disclosure can be used to measure any type of plant stem, including primary stems, secondary stems, petioles, trunks, reeds, pedicels, and the like, as well as any type of plant stem, shoot, culm, body, branch, vine, trunk, or fruit. Any plant part may be subject to size variations due to irreversible meristem growth or reversible swelling / shrinkage as a function of the plant's hydraulic status or environmental factors (e.g., temperature, relative humidity). The sensor of the present disclosure can be used to measure any type of plant, including, but not limited to, vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, etc.), trees (e.g., rubber trees, fruit trees, etc.), row crops, ornamentals, and the like. In some embodiments, the plant is a crop tree. In some embodiments, the plant is a citrus, olive, nut, cacao, oak, pine, sequoia, "strawberry", or maple. In some embodiments, the plant is a woody plant. In some embodiments, the plant is a vine, such as a grape vine. The growth of a variety of plants can be monitored using the sensors, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

[0116] In some aspects, provided herein is a sensor comprising: a) one or more fasteners configured to be positioned around a plant part (e.g., a plant stem, body, branch, vine, trunk, or fruit), the fasteners comprising a rotatable element, the rotatable element configured to rotate in proportion to a change in plant part size when positioned around the plant part; b) a magnet, the magnet configured to rotate according to the rotatable element; c) a rotation sensor configured to detect the rotation of the magnet; d) a processor; and e) a power supply. Advantageously, these simple and inexpensive sensors can provide real-time, rapid, continuous or near-continuous monitoring of plant growth, which may indicate changes in health, growth, watering, pests, sunlight, temperature, humidity, or other conditions. Such data can be obtained in close proximity to the plant or at a distance (e.g., by transmitting the data to a mobile device, server, or other computer system) and can be easily adapted for multiple plants over long distances.

[0117] In some embodiments, the magnet is configured such that the north-south axis of the magnet is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotatable element. In some embodiments, the rotation sensor is a Hall sensor. In some embodiments, the Hall sensor is configured to measure the movement (e.g., rotation) of the magnet by measuring sine / cosine waves from the magnet or its magnetic field.

[0118] In an embodiment, the Hall sensor is positioned such that the Z-axis of the Hall sensor is parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable element. In some embodiments, the rotatable element is configured to rotate in proportion to a change in, for example, the diameter of the plant part, the radius of the plant part, the circumference of the plant part, or a combination thereof after placement of the sensor on the plant. In some embodiments, the rotatable element is configured to rotate in one direction in proportion to an increase in the diameter of the plant part, the radius of the plant part, the circumference of the plant part, or a combination thereof, and rotate in another direction (e.g., the opposite direction) in proportion to a decrease in the diameter of the plant part, the radius of the plant part, the circumference of the plant part, or a combination thereof.

[0119] In some embodiments, the degree of rotation of the rotatable element is linear with respect to plant part size (e.g., diameter, radius, circumference, etc.) by a constant factor. In some embodiments, the constant factor is about 10 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, the constant factor is about 5 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, the constant factor is constant over a dynamic range of plant part sizes. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to about 24 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to about 24 mm in diameter and the constant factor is about 10 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to about 52 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to about 52 mm in diameter and the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 1 mm to about 5 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 1 mm to about 5 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is up to about 5 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 0.001 mm to about 5 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 0.001 mm to about 1 mm in diameter.In some embodiments, the constant factor is about 10 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 9 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 8 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 7 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 6 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 5 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 2 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 1 degree of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 15 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, about 20 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change, or about 25 degrees of rotation of the rotatable element per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, the dynamic range of plant part sizes is from about 4 mm to about 52 mm in diameter, from about 4 mm to about 30 mm in diameter, from about 4 mm to about 40 mm in diameter, from about 4 mm to about 60 mm in diameter, from about 1 mm to about 52 mm in diameter, from about 1 mm to about 30 mm in diameter, from about 1 mm to about 40 mm in diameter, from about 1 mm to about 60 mm in diameter, from about 1 mm to about 10 mm in diameter, from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm in diameter, from about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm in diameter, from about 0.01 mm to about 1 mm in diameter, from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm in diameter, or from about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm in diameter. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the sensors of the present disclosure may be adapted to certain coefficients and / or dynamic ranges that are useful over a range.

[0120] In some embodiments, the sensor of the present disclosure uses a magnet and Hall sensor system with a single PCB inside an injection molded plastic housing and a battery to produce accurate measurements that can be transmitted, for example, over a low power wireless data link. Other sensors and elements are also possible, and the low cost of the magnet / Hall sensor pair makes this highly advantageous. Clip Type Sensor

[0121] In some embodiments of the sensor of the present disclosure, the one or more fasteners include at least a first stationary arm having a base and a rotatable arm having a base, and a magnet is positioned within the rotatable arm. In some embodiments, a change in size of the plant part causes the rotatable arm to rotate, for example, to an extent proportional to the change in size (e.g., circumference, diameter, radius, etc.). This type of sensor is referred to herein as a "clip-type" or "clip-style" sensor or arborescence gauge.

[0122] In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners further comprise a second stationary arm. In some embodiments, the stationary arm and the rotatable arm are curved. In some embodiments, the stationary arm and the rotatable arm are curved in opposite directions. In some embodiments, the plant part is contacted by three contact lines, a first line on the first stationary arm, a second line on the rotatable arm, and a third line on the sensor opposite the first and / or second line, e.g., a part of the sensor housing or other component of the sensor other than the arm.

[0123] In some embodiments, the clip-type sensor further comprises a torsion spring. In some embodiments, the torsion spring is connected to the rotatable arm, to one of the stationary arms (e.g., the first stationary arm), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the torsion spring is connected to the rotatable arm. In an embodiment, the torsion spring applies a torsion to the sensor, e.g., to the sensor's housing or other stationary body at the connection. In some embodiments, the torsion spring is connected to the first stationary arm and the rotatable arm. In an embodiment, the torsion spring applies a torsion to the connection to the rotatable arm. In some embodiments, the base of the rotatable arm and the base of the first stationary arm are connected at a hinge that comprises the torsion spring.

[0124] In some embodiments of the clip-type sensor, the rotational sensor is positioned within the housing of the sensor. In other embodiments of the clip-type sensor, the rotational sensor is positioned within one of the stationary arms (e.g., within the first stationary arm or within the second stationary arm).

[0125] One embodiment of the device includes curved "arms" that are shaped such that a cylindrical object (idealized plant part) is contacted along three lines, one on the body and one contacting each arm, thus achieving a stable grip of the plant without any additional constraints. One embodiment of such a configuration is shown in Figures 1A and 1B.

[0126] In some embodiments, one or more of the arms can be curved so that the angular motion of the measurement arm is linear with respect to the diameter of the plant part, such as a constant factor, such as about 10 degrees of arm rotation per about 1 mm of plant part size change. In some embodiments, a magnet is embedded in the arm such that the NS polar axis is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. In some embodiments, a Hall sensor, which can measure the field strength in the X and Y axes, oriented so that the Z axis is aligned with the axis of rotation, detects the rotation of the arm as a sine and cosine function, and the angle can be easily calculated as the ATAN2 of the X and Y Hall signals.

[0127] In some embodiments, such devices include only four plastic parts, a PBC, a magnet, and a spring, and can be produced at a very low cost. They are very easy to apply to plants, requiring only one hand to simply clip them into place and begin monitoring. Because the arm both grips and measures the plant, no additional means are required to constrain the system. An exemplary clip-type sensor is shown in FIG. 1C. Sliding Arm Sensor

[0128] In some embodiments of the sensors (e.g., clip-type sensors) of the present disclosure, the position of the base of one of the stationary arms is configured to slide relative to the base of the rotating arm such that sliding the base of the stationary arm a greater distance from the base of the rotating arm causes an increase in the smallest diameter that can be measured by the sensor and a decrease in the smallest change in size that can be measured by the sensor. In other embodiments, the position of the base of the rotating arm is configured to slide relative to the base of one of the stationary arms such that sliding the base of the rotating arm a greater distance from the base of the stationary arm causes an increase in the smallest diameter that can be measured by the sensor and a decrease in the smallest change in size that can be measured by the sensor. In some embodiments, the position of the base of the first stationary arm is configured to slide relative to the base of the rotating arm such that sliding the base of the first stationary arm a greater distance from the base of the rotating arm causes an increase in the smallest diameter that can be measured by the sensor and a decrease in the smallest change in size that can be measured by the sensor. In other embodiments, the position of the base of the rotating arm is configured to slide relative to the base of the first stationary arm such that sliding the base of the rotating arm a greater distance from the base of the first stationary arm causes an increase in the minimum diameter that can be measured by the sensor and a decrease in the minimum change in size that can be measured by the sensor.

[0129] The clip-type sensor described above is very easy to deploy and has excellent capabilities for measuring the absolute size of anything that it is clipped to within its measurement range. However, in most cases, monitoring the absolute size of a plant part is not as useful for plant health as capturing minute changes in size that occur over a short period of time. Measurements taken twice a minute (or at a similar frequency) over two or more days can indicate whether the plant is expanding and contracting normally for a healthy plant.

[0130] Different types of clip sensors according to some embodiments can have smaller measurement ranges, such as to detect maximum diameter changes of 4 or 10 mm, and higher sensitivity over that range, by allowing the arm to slide against the measurement portion of the device during placement and then slide so that the zero rests near the small end of the active measurement range. So the device can be placed on a 30 mm plant part and then the measurement portion set to be about 1 on the 0 to 5 range. Now, as the plant part grows and shrinks over days and weeks, this changes from 30 mm to 33 mm, and changes as small as 0.001 mm can be detected and reported by the device. Tape measure type sensor

[0131] In some embodiments of the sensor of the present disclosure, the one or more fasteners comprise a clip and a flexible tape with a first end and a second end, the first end is attached to a rotatable drum, a magnet is positioned within the rotatable drum, the second end is configured to be attached to the sensor with the clip, a first section of the flexible tape with the first end is configured to be wrapped around the rotatable drum, a second section of the flexible tape with the second end is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and attached to the sensor with the clip at the second end, and the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to changes in size of the plant part. This type of sensor is referred to herein as a "tape measure type" or "tape type" sensor or dendrometer.

[0132] In some embodiments, the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to the change in size of the plant part as the length of the first or second section of the flexible tape changes. In some embodiments, the second section of the flexible tape, with the second end, is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and attached to the sensor at a stationary portion or body of the sensor or a housing of the sensor. In some embodiments, the flexible tape comprises a perforated material, polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), a fluorinated material, a composite material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the composite material comprises Kevlar, fiberglass, or a combination thereof.

[0133] In some embodiments, the tape measure type sensor further comprises a torsion spring, the torsion spring connected to the rotatable drum, the torsion spring applying a torsion to the rotatable drum or to the connection of the sensor thereto. In certain embodiments, the rotational sensor is positioned within the housing of the sensor.

[0134] This embodiment of the sensor uses a flexible thin strip of material wrapped around a drum that is constrained with a spring to retract the tape (FIGS. 2A and 2B). The tape is drawn around the plant part and the far end is fastened back to the device with a clip. As the plant part increases in size, it pulls more tape out and the drum rotates about the Z axis. A magnet is attached within the drum in a similar manner to the clip-type sensor described above, producing a measurement signal from the Hall sensor. An exemplary tape measure type sensor is shown in FIG. 2C.

[0135] If the drum diameter is relatively small, the device can produce a relatively large measurement signal from small changes in plant part diameter, and by including many wraps of tape around the drum, a relatively long length of tape can be included, allowing for measurement of larger plant parts.

[0136] Potential disadvantages of this type of sensor versus a clip are that it generally requires two hands to deploy, it necessarily involves more parts, friction between the tape and the plant parts will reduce measurement fidelity, and the tape may impede airflow to the plant parts. To mitigate these, the tape may be made of a perforated material with very low surface energy and low friction. Laser cut PETG is one practical tape choice that works well and is cost effective. Fluorinated materials and composite strips, including Kevlar or fiberglass strength elements, are also possibilities. Ribbon Type Sensor

[0137] In some embodiments of the sensor of the present disclosure, the one or more fasteners comprise a ribbon, a clasp, and a rotatable drum, where a magnet is positioned within the rotatable drum, where the ribbon is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and fastened to the sensor with the clasp, and where the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to changes in size of the plant part. This type of sensor is referred to herein as a "ribbon-type" or "band-type" sensor or dendrometer.

[0138] In some embodiments, the rotatable drum is configured to rotate in proportion to the change in size of the plant parts as the position of the ribbon changes. In an embodiment, the rotation sensor is positioned within the sensor housing.

[0139] In some embodiments, the sensor further comprises a torsion spring, the torsion spring connected to the rotatable drum, hi some embodiments, the torsion spring applies a torsion to the rotatable drum or to the connection of the sensor thereto.

[0140] A variation of the tape-type sensor includes a ribbon that does not have any predefined tape length, but instead can be of arbitrary length to wrap around a tree of any size (FIGS. 3A-3B). Generally, only the change in ribbon length is measured, since what is of interest is slight changes in plant part (e.g., trunk or stem) size, not absolute size measurements. The ribbon is fastened to the device on the distal end via a clasp that grips the ribbon by friction at any point. Timing belt type sensor

[0141] In some embodiments of the sensor of the present disclosure, the one or more fasteners comprise a belt with multiple teeth, a clasp, and a toothed pulley, a magnet is positioned within the toothed pulley, the belt is configured to wrap around the plant part and fasten to the sensor with the clasp, and the toothed pulley is configured to interlock with one or more of the teeth of the belt and rotate in proportion to changes in size of the plant part. This type of sensor is referred to herein as a "timing belt type sensor."

[0142] In some embodiments, the belt is configured to be wrapped around the plant part and fastened to the sensor using a clasp with teeth facing outward, away from the plant part, In certain embodiments, the toothed pulley is configured to interlock with one or more of the teeth of the belt and rotate in proportion to the change in size of the plant part as the position of the belt changes.

[0143] In some embodiments, the belt comprises Kevlar, metal, fiberglass, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the teeth are spaced about 2 mm or less apart. In some embodiments, the rotational sensor is positioned within the sensor housing.

[0144] Another embodiment of the sensor uses a timing belt such that when placed around the plant part, the toothed side of the belt faces outward and the smooth, hard back side of the belt rests against the bark or outer surface of the plant part. The belt can have a hard, slippery surface that contacts the surface to maximize its ability to slide during trunk expansion and contraction. The Kevlar, metal, or fiberglass fibers of the belt resist stretching, thus improving the accuracy of the measurement. Instead of being wrapped around a drum, the belt is engaged by a sawtooth pulley that rotates a magnet to produce a measurement (FIG. 4A). The other end can be gripped by a clip at any point on the device. This type also allows the measurement of any size plant, as long as the timing belt is long enough. 10m long belts with 2mm teeth (GT2 profile) can be easily procured at low cost due to their general use with 3D printers. A finer tooth belt, custom made for the device, may allow for even more sensitive measurements of plant parts and provide other benefits, especially if the inner surface is made from a very hard slippery surface. An exemplary timing belt type sensor is shown in Figures 4A and 4B. Systems and methods for measuring and tracking plant part sizes - Patents.com

[0145] In some aspects, provided herein is a system for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics comprising: a) a sensor according to any of the embodiments described herein; and b) a mobile device or server, wherein the sensor is connected to the mobile device or server via wireless communication and configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server.

[0146] In some embodiments, the sensor is connected to a mobile device or server via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Long Range (LoRa), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server. In an embodiment, the sensor is configured to transmit data related to the rotation sensor, plant part size, wireless communication signal strength, or a combination thereof to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to receive data from the mobile device or server.

[0147] In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of sensors according to any of the embodiments described herein, each sensor of the plurality being connected to a mobile device or server via wireless communication and configured to transmit data to the mobile device or server. In some embodiments, each sensor of the plurality is connected to the mobile device or server via Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), Long Range (LoRa), or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, each sensor in the plurality is configured to transmit data related to wireless communication signal strength to the mobile device or server. In an embodiment, the mobile device or server receives wireless communication signal strength information from each sensor in the plurality and generates a map of wireless communication signal strength across the locations of the plurality of sensors. In some embodiments, the mobile device comprises a GPS sensor. In an embodiment, the GPS sensor is configured to obtain location information using the GPS sensor and associate the location information with the plurality of sensors. In some embodiments, the mobile device comprises a camera or other image sensor (e.g., a CCD or CMOS sensor).

[0148] For all surveying types described here, a smartphone app can help collect contextual information using common smartphone sensors (GPS, compass, RFID, camera) and prompting questions for the user.

[0149] Arborescence measurements are most meaningful when the context is well understood. The type of plant, its location, and stage of growth are all taken into account. Much of this information can be easily captured using a smartphone. The arborescence device may have a near field communication device (RFID) that the smartphone could detect and use to identify the device. Alternatively, the device may have a QR code, barcode, or other visual identifier that a person or the camera on the smartphone could use to identify the device. One or more photos taken of the plant to which the device is attached, which would contain information including the phone's GPS (geotag) and location from the plant, may be identifiable by using cloud-based plant ID image recognition software. The phone app may also prompt the installer to answer several questions such as whether the plant is established or new planting.

[0150] Each device, when paired with a smartphone, can be used as a network signal strength checking device. The device may have two wireless links, such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and LoRa. LoRa signals can be the primary means of transmitting data from the sensor to the Internet system due to its long range and low power consumption, while Bluetooth can be used to communicate directly with the smartphone since most smartphones support that standard. LoRa signal strength may be measured by the device while it is communicating with the smartphone via BLE. By walking around with the sensor device or trying different possible mounting locations, for example on both sides of a tree, the phone can be used to determine the quality of the LoRa communication link at each possible mounting location. This information may be stored as geo-referenced data to map and define areas of good signal quality for a given gateway location. A process whereby a gateway is temporarily deployed at a trial location and then signal quality is assessed using simply a smartphone and any sensor device with the two wireless features will make it easier for users to set up good wireless networks and desired sensor installations for those locations. For devices with only one radio, such as LoRa only, the same process can be applied where the gateway is connected to the Internet and the smartphone has network connectivity via cell or WiFi. In this case, the sensor device will first connect to the gateway when it comes within range, and as the person moves the sensor device around, signal quality information will be relayed to the phone via the Internet backend. A real-time display on the smartphone screen of the signal quality, number of bars, and / or color, i.e., green (good), yellow (no problem), orange (poor), red (bad), would allow the installer to easily place the sensor in a location with the proper connectivity.One side of a tree may be sunny and placing the sensor in the shade is preferred, but it is less important than having proper connectivity. On the other hand, "connectivity (yellow) and shade" is better than "connectivity (green) and sun". The direction of the sun may be indicated using information about the smartphone app and geolocation. Having both information on the display during deployment will allow the app to guide and deploy to the best sensor location.

[0151] In some aspects, provided herein is a method for tracking plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, including measuring the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part using a sensor of the present disclosure, for example, based on data collected using the integrated components. In some embodiments, the method further includes measuring the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part using a sensor of the present disclosure at a second time after the first time, the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part being measured using a sensor of the present disclosure, for example, based on data collected using the integrated components. In some embodiments, the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part are compared between the first time and the second time to track changes in the size and / or other plant part characteristics over time (i.e., between the first time and the second time).

[0152] In some embodiments, the size measurement is based at least in part on the position of the magnet of the sensor (e.g., as detected by a magnetometer of the present disclosure). In some embodiments, the method includes a step of mounting the sensor to the plant or plant part prior to the size measurement, where one or more fasteners are positioned in or around the plant part and a plunger cap is positioned relative to the plant part. In some embodiments, the method further includes a step of measuring a size of the plant part using the sensor of the present disclosure at a second time after the first time, where the size measurement at the second time is based at least in part on the position of the magnet, and where a change in the position of the magnet from the first time to the second time indicates a change in size of the plant part.

[0153] In some aspects, provided herein is a method for tracking plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising: a) measuring a plant part size at a first time at a sensor according to any of the embodiments described herein; and b) measuring the plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics at a second time after the first time, e.g., based on data collected using the integrated components. In some embodiments, the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part are compared between the first time and the second time to track changes in the size and / or other plant part characteristics over time (i.e., between the first time and the second time).

[0154] In some embodiments, a change in size of the plant part between the first time and the second time causes a rotation of the rotatable element in proportion to the change in size. In some embodiments, the difference in size and / or other plant part characteristics is measured between the two time points. In some embodiments, the size and / or other plant part characteristics are measured at each time point. EXAMPLES

[0155] The presently disclosed subject matter will be better understood by reference to the following examples, which are provided as illustrations of the invention and not by way of limitation. Example 1 Measuring plant stem size using a dendrometer

[0156] Nine arborescence meters were placed on seven plants and one reference cylinder in an indoor growth chamber. Six of the plants were tomatoes and one was a rubber plant. On one of the tomatoes, two arborescence meters were placed one above the other on the stem (ed3 and ed4). Seven of the arborescence meters were clip style and two (TM1 and TM2) were strip style. Grow lights were activated from 5:30 AM to 7 PM local (Pacific) time. Watering events were recorded.

[0157] Figure 5 shows a plot of stem size measurements recorded by each arborescencer over time. A diurnal cycle can be observed as can watering events. Daily disturbances and some amount of settling can be observed on the reference rods that correlate with illumination shifts. This can be expected and corrected for with these devices. Example 2 Measuring Stem Size of Persimmon Trees

[0158] The Fuyugaki trees were in relatively dry soil. Figure 6 shows data from a tape measure type arborescence meter applied to the trees, reporting measurements every 30 seconds via Bluetooth through a rooftop gateway to a cloud-based data store. Measurements are in mm and times are shown as local Pacific time. A daily cycle of approximately 0.02 mm was observed in the size measurements. Water was provided on the third evening during the study period. The next day, stem size had increased from the minimum by approximately 0.06 mm. Example 3 Measurements of tree size, air temperature, relative humidity, magnetometer temperature, battery level, light intensity, and accelerometer axis

[0159] Six trees were monitored. Figures 7A-7C show data from a device of the present disclosure applied to each tree. Figures 8A-8C show data from a device applied to one tree. Diameter measurements were in mm. Air temperature and magnetometer temperature measurements were in °C. Relative humidity measurements were in %H. Battery level measurements were in %. Accelerometer measurements were in m / s. 2 It was a unit. Example 4 Measurement of tree growth

[0160] The lime tree was monitored from September 2021 to November 2021. Its growth was measured to the nearest 0.001 mm. Figure 10 shows that the daily maximum (early morning), daily minimum (late night), daily variation, and tree water deficit (TWD) were monitored. The daily variation was approximately the size of a human hair (about 80 μm). Figure 11 shows the device on a lime tree. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the main drivers of the daily size oscillation are related to tensions generated by transpiration and limitations imposed on the hydraulic conductivity by the soil, sap passages within the plant, stomatal openings, and their individual interfaces. On the other hand, irreversible tissue expansion can be due to cell division and growth, for example, within the meristem. Example 5 Monitoring water status in vines and small stems

[0161] Many crops may have stems or vines that are too small in diameter to accommodate a dendrometer attached using a screw. However, as with trees, it may be beneficial to monitor the size of the plant's stems and / or vines to optimize the plant's growing conditions. Grapevines, for example, must be grown under an optimal amount of water stress to produce wine grapes with the most desirable flavor profile. Over-watered grapevines may produce watery grapes resulting in an undesirable flavor profile. Under-watered grapevines may also produce grapes with an undesirable flavor profile. In addition, under-watered grapevines may produce fewer grapes than grapevines receiving an optimal amount of water. Significant under-watering may ultimately result in the death of the plant. A conventional method for monitoring the moisture status of grapevine vines may involve manually removing grape leaves, sealing the leaves in a pressure chamber with the stems protruding from the chamber, and then measuring the pressure in the water that beads up on the torn stems. These conventional methods are typically performed immediately prior to harvest, and therefore, even if the method reveals that the grape vines are not receiving an optimal amount of water, there may not be enough time remaining to correct growing conditions prior to harvest to produce the most desirable grapes. Furthermore, conventional methods are time consuming, require manual labor, and are subject to operator error and bias. In particular, because measurements only indicate the water status of a particular leaf, selecting leaves that accurately represent the plant's status can be challenging.

[0162] The arborescence meters described herein may be adapted to monitor the moisture status of vines and other small diameter stems. In some embodiments, the adapted arborescence meters may provide a cost-effective and automatic method for continuously measuring the diameter of wine grape vines or other plants with small diameter stems to monitor the moisture status (e.g., over-watering, under-watering, etc.) of the plants while they are growing. The adapted arborescence meters according to the present disclosure may also provide growth and environmental information that may assist in the analysis of stem diameter measurements. In some embodiments, the growth and environmental information provided by the adapted arborescence meters may be used to inform crop management decisions (e.g., irrigation). In some embodiments, a user may be able to arrange and monitor a large number (e.g., greater than or equal to 100, 500, 1000, 5,000, etc.) of adapted arborescence meters within a single growing area. This may allow a user to measure a large number of plants at various locations within the growing area, which may allow the user to accurately and precisely assess the growing conditions at the locations. In some embodiments, the adapted arborescence meter may be used to monitor smaller, younger sprouts, which may provide more reliable data because they may contain less cork tissue.

[0163] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary arborometer adapted for measuring the diameter of vines and other small diameter stems. Specifically, FIG. 12A illustrates an arborometer 1200 affixed to a stem 1226. As shown, the arborometer 1200 may comprise a plunger 1202, a plurality of arms 1204, a housing 1206, and a pull tab 1208. The pull tab 1208 may be mechanically coupled to the plunger 1202. The plunger 1202 may be retracted away from the plurality of arms 1204 by pulling the pull tab 1208 away from the housing 1206. In some embodiments, a user may position the arborometer 1200 on the stem 1226 by retracting the plunger 1202 using the pull tab 1208, positioning the plurality of arms 1204 over an appropriate section of the stem 1226, and releasing the plunger 1202 by releasing the pull tab 1208. When the plunger 1202 is released, it may move towards the multiple arms 1204, causing the stem 1226 to become stuck between the end of the plunger 1202 and the multiple arms 1204. In some embodiments, the multiple arms 1204 may comprise at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six arms. In some embodiments, the multiple arms 1204 may comprise a pair of arms extending from the housing 1206 in a "V" or "U" shape. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the multiple arms 1204 and the shape formed by them may be configured to receive the stem 1226 in a kinematically determinative manner.

[0164] In some embodiments, the arborescence meter 1200 may be small enough to fit between closely spaced nodes on a stem or vine (e.g., closely spaced nodes on a grape vine). In some embodiments, the maximum spacing between each arm of the plurality of arms 1204 may be less than or equal to 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 inches. In some embodiments, the maximum spacing between each arm of the plurality of arms 1204 may be greater than or equal to 0.15, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, or 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the compact shape of the arborescence meter 1200 may minimize the measurement load path, which may improve the accuracy of diameter measurements, especially when the temperature of the environment is changing.

[0165] In some embodiments, the arborometer 1200 may be configured to be attached to a stem or vine having a diameter less than or equal to 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the arborometer 1200 may be configured to be attached to a stem or vine having a diameter greater than or equal to 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the arborometer 1200 may be configured to be attached to a stem or vine having a diameter greater than or equal to 0.15 inches and less than or equal to 1 inch.

[0166] The dendrometer 1200 may be formed from lightweight materials. In some embodiments, the housing 1206 may include a stable polymer, such as a 30% glass-filled UV-activated polymer (e.g., FormLabs Rigid 10K material) that may be 3D printed by stereolithography. In some embodiments, the housing 1206 may include a glass-filled polymer (e.g., Noryl) that may be injection molded. In some embodiments, the housing 1206 may include a material configured to transmit radio frequency signals.

[0167] In some embodiments, the housing 1206 may store one or more electronic components configured to monitor changes in diameter of a stem to which the arborometer 1200 is attached. The housing 1206 may include a removable panel 1220 that may allow a user to access the electronic components stored within the housing 1206.

[0168] Additional external perspective views of arborometer 1200 are depicted in Figures 12E-12M.

[0169] 12B depicts a perspective internal view of the tree surveyor 1200. As shown, the housing 1206 may house a printed circuit assembly 1214 including an antenna 1216 and a magnetometer 1218. The plunger 1202 may house a magnet 1210 positioned at one end of a spring 1212. When a user retracts the plunger 1202 by pulling the pull tab 1208 away from its resting position, the spring 1212 may compress. When the pull tab 1208 is released, the spring 1212 may be urged to expand again, which may move the plunger 1202 towards the arms 1204. If the arms 1204 are mounted on a stem, such as stem 1226, the movement of the plunger 1202 towards the arms 1204 may be stopped by the stem.

[0170] In some embodiments, the magnet 1210 may generate a magnetic field characterized by curved lines of magnetic flux. The magnetometer 1218 may be configured to measure the strength of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1210 along at least two axes, e.g., along multiple axes, radial axes, or a single plane. The angle of the magnetic field may be determined based on the strength of the magnetic field along at least two axes (e.g., along multiple axes, radial axes, or a single plane) detected by the magnetometer 1218. In some embodiments, the angle may be equal to or related to the arctangent of the magnetic field strength along a first axis divided by the magnetic field strength along a second axis. When the arborescence meter 1200 is attached to a stem or vine, such as stem 1226, and the stem / vine expands or contracts in diameter, the angle of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1210 may change. The change in the angle of the magnetic field may be related to a linear change in the diameter of the stem or vine. In some embodiments, the linear change in the diameter of the stem or vine may be approximately linearly related to the change in the angle of the magnetic field. In some embodiments, the linear change in diameter may be related to the change in angle of the magnetic field by a seventh order polynomial. In some embodiments, the linear change in diameter may be related to the change in angle of the magnetic field by a seventh order polynomial during calibration of the dendrometer 1200.

[0171] In some embodiments, the spring 1212 may be configured to be strong enough to allow the plunger 1202 to grip the stem or vine, but weak enough to ensure that the plunger 1202 does not damage the stem or vine. This may allow the arborometer 1200 to be easily attached and removed to different stems or vines and / or different locations along the stem or vine without causing damage to the plant. In some embodiments, the plunger 1202 may be configured to move linearly with low friction to allow the plunger 1202 to be sensitive to slight changes in the diameter of the stem or vine. In some embodiments, the plunger 1202 may be sensitive to stem diameter changes on a micron scale.

[0172] In some embodiments, the antenna 1216 may be configured to transmit data associated with changes in stem or vine diameter to an external device (e.g., a user's computer). In some embodiments, the antenna 1216 may be a radio frequency antenna. In some embodiments, the antenna 1216 may be configured to transmit data wirelessly using a low power digital wireless protocol (e.g., Bluetooth® Low Energy 5 (BLE5) or LoraWAN). In some embodiments, the antenna 1216 may transmit data continuously to an external device over an extended period of time (e.g., throughout an entire growing season).

[0173] As mentioned above, the housing 1206 may include a removable substrate 1220, which may allow a user to access the printed circuit assembly 1214. The removable substrate 1220 may be secured to the housing 1206 using one or more fasteners 1222. In some embodiments, the fasteners 1222 may include one or more screws, one or more bolts, and / or one or more rivets.

[0174] In some embodiments, the printed circuit assembly 1214 may include one or more sensors in addition to the magnetometer 1218. The one or more additional sensors may include a humidity sensor, a light sensor, a temperature sensor, and / or an accelerometer. The humidity sensor and the air temperature sensor may be used to determine whether the change in diameter of the stem or vine is due to a bulge in the cork tissue layer of the stem between the plunger and the phloem. Since the expansion in the phloem may be the actual change of interest, it may be necessary to distinguish between a diameter change due to a bulge in the cork tissue layer and an expansion in the phloem. In some embodiments, the humidity sensor and the temperature sensor may be used to gather information related to the possibility of transpiration during photosynthesis. For example, data collected by the humidity sensor and the temperature sensor may be used to calculate a vapor pressure deficit. The accelerometer may help determine whether the arborescence 1200 has been pushed aside or dislodged, and may provide information about the stability of the plant to which the arborescence 1200 is attached under variable wind conditions. Light sensors may be used to determine whether the tree surveyor 1200 is in the direction of sunlight, to determine the times of sunset and sunrise, to verify the location of the tree surveyor 1200, and to provide information regarding the amount of cloud cover.

[0175] 12C, the printed circuit assembly 1214 may receive power from a battery 1228. In some embodiments, the battery 1228 may be a coin cell battery configured to last an entire growing season. This may allow the arborometer 1200 to be placed on a stem or vine after spring pruning and removed after harvest.

[0176] Additional internal perspective views of arborometer 1200 are depicted in Figures 12D and 12H.

[0177] 12N-12P show photographs of the arborescence meter 1200 attached to a grape vine. As shown, the arborescence meter 1200 may be secured to the vine using one or more elastic straps 1230. In some embodiments, the elastic straps 1230 may be durable against UV radiation. In some embodiments, a single elastic strap 1230 may be stretched across a first arm of the multiple arms 1204, around the stem, around the back side of the arborescence meter 1200, and across a second arm of the multiple arms 1204. Example 6 Integrated Tree Sensor

[0178] A tree sensor may be configured to facilitate remote monitoring of a plant's health and / or growth status over multiple years without requiring post-deployment maintenance. A tree sensor may include a number of integrated sensors capable of monitoring growth status, moisture status, tilt, and / or sway. In some embodiments, an integrated tree sensor may be configured to detect and / or account for any effects the sensor may have on the measurements it is making. In some embodiments, the duration for which an integrated tree sensor may be deployed may be limited only by the tree growth itself. An integrated tree sensor may be powered by one or more batteries configured to provide power over the life of the tree sensor without requiring replacement.

[0179] 13A-13B show perspective views of an integrated tree sensor, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIGS. 13A-13B show perspective views of an integrated tree sensor 1300 affixed to a tree trunk. The integrated tree sensor 1300 includes a plunger 1302 and a mounting screw 1304. One end of the plunger 1302 may include a gimbaled tip 1308. An overmolded portion 1306 may cover one or more electronic and / or control components of the sensor 1300. In some embodiments, a side of the sensor 1300 that faces away from the tree trunk when the sensor 1300 is deployed may include one or more solar panels 1312 configured to receive solar energy, convert it into electrical energy, and power the sensor 1300.

[0180] 13C shows a cross-sectional view of the integrated tree sensor 1300. As shown, the overmold 1306 covers a single printed circuit board 1324. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board 1324 may be configured to support all of the mechanical and electrical components of the sensor 1300 (i.e., all of the configuration of the sensor 1300 may be affixed to the printed circuit board 1324). The electronic components of the sensor 1300 may include one or more antennas, such as a LORA antenna 1326 and an NFC antenna 1332. In some embodiments, these antennas may be configured to transmit data over long distances while consuming a small amount of power.

[0181] In some embodiments, the printed circuit board 1324 may comprise a material that has stable structural properties and a low coefficient of thermal expansion compared to injection molded plastics. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board 1324 may comprise laminate layers of an epoxy-fiberglass composite (e.g., G10 or FR4).

[0182] In some embodiments, the overmold molding 1306 may be configured to hermetically seal the printed circuit board 1324. The overmold molding 1306 may be applied using a low pressure overmold molding system (e.g., Techno-Melt by Henkel). The overmold molding 1306 may be configured to protect one or more electronic components of the integrated tree sensor from exposure to water and other contaminants. In some embodiments, the overmold molding 1306 may be applied in a manner such that one or more components of the sensor 1300 remain exposed.

[0183] In some embodiments, the mounting screw 1304 may be configured to securely affix the sensor 1300 to the tree trunk. The mounting screw 1304 may be a button head screw and may include stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and / or titanium. The mounting screw 1304 may be the only screw required to affix the sensor 1300. Using a single screw may facilitate easy and efficient deployment of the sensor 1300 because a single screw requires only a single hole to be drilled into the tree trunk. It may be necessary for the thread joint of the mounting screw 1304 to be tight and secure to ensure that the sensor 1300 provides stable measurements over an extended period of time.

[0184] In some embodiments, the compression limiter 1322 may be disposed within the printed circuit board 1324 to provide a durable interface between the screw 1306 and the printed circuit board 1324. The compression limiter 1322 may be a metal collar and may be disposed within the printed circuit board 1324 using automated soldering equipment. After a hole for the mounting screw 1304 is drilled into the tree trunk, the sensor 1300 may be affixed to the trunk by passing the mounting screw 1304 into the front of the sensor 1300, through the compression limiter 1322 and the printed circuit board 1324, and out the back of the sensor 1300. A nut 1316 may be disposed on the tail end of the mounting screw 1304. The mounting screw 1324 may be inserted to the appropriate depth within the hole in the tree trunk. The plunger 1302 may then be aligned. Once the plunger 1302 is aligned, the nut 1316 may be tightened laterally using a wrench (eg, a crescent wrench) to prevent axial movement of the mounting screw 1324 .

[0185] In some embodiments, a mounting hole or slot in the printed circuit board 1324 may be exposed to allow the screw 1304 to affix the sensor 1300 to a tree. In some embodiments, the mounting screw 1304 may be a threaded rod with a nut that is pre-secured to the rod using adhesive, solder, or welding. In some embodiments, the nut may be machined as part of the threaded rod. After the sensor 1300 is properly installed, a second nut may be placed and tightened from the front of the sensor 1300. This may allow the sensor 1300 to be placed and removed without completely removing the mounting screw 1304 from the tree.

[0186] FIG. 13D shows a cross-sectional view of the plunger 1302. The plunger 1302 may house a magnet 1328. In some embodiments, the magnet 1328 may include neodymium. The magnet 1328 may generate a magnetic field. When the sensor 1300 is disposed on the tree trunk, changes in the diameter of the tree trunk may affect the physical properties of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1328. The sensor 1300 may include a magnetometer 1334 configured to detect changes in the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1328. In some embodiments, the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1328 may be characterized by a curved magnetic field path that changes angle relative to a fixed point as the plunger 1302 moves in and out as a result of changes in the diameter of the tree trunk. The magnetometer 1334 may measure the strength of the magnetic field in two orthogonal axes. Based on the measured strength, the angle of the magnetic field lines relative to the fixed point can be calculated. This angle can be related to the linear position of the plunger 1302. In some embodiments, the linear position of the plunger 1302 may be determined to micron resolution. In some embodiments, the characteristics of the magnetic field produced by the magnet 1328 may be durable to change over the life of the sensor 1300, assuming the sensor 1300 is not artificially heated.

[0187] In some embodiments, the plunger 1302 may be partially housed within the guide 1318. A spring 1330 may surround the plunger 1302 within the guide cap 1318. In some embodiments, the plunger 1302 may be deployed by pulling back on the plunger cap 1310 to compress the spring 1330 and then releasing the plunger cap 1310 to bring the plunger 1302 into contact with the trunk of the tree. In some embodiments, an anti-rotation pin 1320 may be positioned at one end of the spring 1330 within the guide cap 1318 to prevent the plunger 1302 from rotating and to facilitate the transfer of the spring force to the plunger 1302.

[0188] As mentioned above, the plunger 1302 may include a gimbaled tip 1308. The gimbaled tip 1308 may be configured to allow the plunger 1302 to pivot about an axis. In some embodiments, the gimbaled tip 1308 may be configured to provide a reasonably sized contact area between the plunger 1302 and the tree trunk to which the sensor 1300 is affixed. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the gimbaled tip 1308 may be greater than or equal to 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 square millimeters. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the gimbaled tip 1308 may be less than or equal to 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 90, 80, or 70 square millimeters. In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the gimbal tip 1308 may be 10-50, 10-100, 10-500, 10-1,000, or 10-1,500 square millimeters. In some embodiments, one end of the plunger 1302 may comprise a spherical ball point. The gimbal tip 1308 may comprise a spherical cavity configured to receive the spherical ball point of the plunger 1302. In some embodiments, the gimbal tip 1308 may be less than or equal to a thickness of 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 mm. In some embodiments, the gimbal tip 1308 may be greater than or equal to a thickness of 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or 4 mm. In some embodiments, the gimbal tip 1308 may be formed via injection molding and may comprise plastic (e.g., a low friction plastic such as acetal or PETG). FIG. 13P shows a perspective view of the gimbal tip 1308.

[0189] In some embodiments, the solar panel 1312 may be a component of a hybrid capacitor / lithium battery 1336 and may charge control circuitry integrated on the printed circuit board 1324 and configured to maximize energy collection of the sensor 1300. The solar panel 1312 may be configured to provide power to the sensor 1300 over the life of the sensor 1300. In some embodiments, the sensor 1300 may be configured to operate for extended periods of time (e.g., days or weeks) in the dark using power collected by the solar panel 1312 and stored on the hybrid capacitor 1336.

[0190] FIG. 13Q shows an internal cross-sectional view of an integrated tree sensor 1300 mounted to an alumina silicate ceramic plate used to characterize temperature and humidity sensitivity (in operation, the sensor 1300 would be mounted to a plant part as described herein). In this figure, a printed circuit board 1324 is a PCA-00012A that is screwed into the housing, which in this example is made from Rigid 10K glass-filled resin. A magnetometer 1334 is attached to the PCA 1324, which may also include various other sensors, for example, as described herein. The sensor includes a magnet 1328, which can be a neodymium cylindrical magnet, such as D34-N52 (K&J Magnetics, Inc.). A mounting screw 1304 is mounted to the ceramic plate with nuts 1316 and 1318, respectively, on either side of the plate. A plunger 1302 (18-8 SS shaft) rests on the ceramic plate with tip 1308, which may be made from a plastic such as DELRIN® polyoxymethylene (POM) polymer resin. A shuttle (made from Rigid 4000 resin in this example) is interference fitted over the shaft of the plunger 1302 and a mounting screw 1304 is held in place via a clamp (made from Rigid 10K glass filled resin in this example).

[0191] In some embodiments, the sensor 1300 may comprise additional sensors configured to collect additional data related to tree trunk health and growth. In some embodiments, the sensor 1300 may comprise a three-axis accelerometer configured to measure changes in the inclination ("tilt") of the tree trunk over a long (i.e., days or longer) period of time. In some embodiments, the accelerometer may be configured to detect movement ("sway") of the tree trunk over a short period of time. In some embodiments, the accelerometer may be configured to detect sudden acceleration ("shock") of the tree trunk. In some embodiments, the sensor 1300 may comprise a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may monitor changes in temperature that may introduce errors into the measurement of the tree trunk diameter.

[0192] Alternative mounting hardware is illustrated in FIGS. 14A-14C. For simplicity, only the mounting elements are shown in FIGS. 14A-14C. Advantageously, the sensor of the present disclosure can utilize a variety of mounting options for mounting to a variety of different tree types and situations. The mounting is secure for precise measurements over time, especially due to the high contact force and metal-to-metal interface contact between the nut or threaded face and the compression limiter. In some embodiments, a strengthened solder joint between the compression limiter and the G10 / FR4 PCB, which in turn secures the magnetometer and accelerometer, provides a simple and stable measurement platform. There are no plastic parts or friction grips in the critical measurement load path. Achieving easy and secure attachment to the tree using only one screw hole is an advantage over other approaches that may require multiple holes to be drilled in the tree and the need that would exist to achieve precise alignment between the multiple holes.

[0193] FIG. 14A shows an integrated tree sensor 1400 and its printed circuit board 1402 with mounting hardware including a captive screw and a readjustable mounting screw. The captive screw 1408 is retained in the device assembly by a retainer ring 1406 that has an interference fit with the ID of the compression limiter 1404 and a clearance fit around the narrowed portion of the captive screw 1408. This may be a plastic ring with a slit to allow it to be placed on the captive screw, or it may be a washer, O-ring, or other similar shape, or the compression limiter may have features that tend to keep the screw from falling out. The captive screw is convenient for the installer and may eliminate the possibility of the nut or other small item falling into the leaves and mud around the tree base. In some embodiments, the captive screw 1408 has a button head with a hex socket for engaging a tightening wrench. In some embodiments, the captive screws 1408 have a knurled or flanged configuration to allow for tightening without the use of tools. In some embodiments, the captive screws 1408 have a tamper-resistant strike-in to make them more difficult to remove, for example, by unauthorized persons.

[0194] The device 1400 is mounted onto the tree trunk by a mounting screw 1410. A hole is typically drilled into the tree in the mounting area, and some cork tissue may be removed in the mounting area, especially if thick bark is present. In some embodiments, the mounting screw 1410 is self-threading so that no holes need to be drilled, or the mounting screw 1410 includes a nail-like shape with raised features for improved grip and is configured to be driven in by a nail gun, hammer, or other insertion instrument.

[0195] In some embodiments, the mounting screw 1410 has machined threads over a portion (M5×0.8 is shown) and a smooth section closer to the head. The length of the smooth section is such that it indicates the correct placement depth, and it is narrow enough that the growing threads will not tend to push the screw out, but will fill the space around the screw where the threads can engage when the screw is later removed. Alternatively, the mounting screw 1410 may be threaded all the way through or closer to the head. In some embodiments, the head of the mounting screw 1410 has a hex nut flange whose distal face provides a flat surface upon which the proximal face of the compression limiter 1404 rests. This nut shape allows the mounting screw 1410 to be inserted into the tree using a standard nut driving tool. In some embodiments, the distal end of the mounting screw 1410 has a cylindrical protrusion for seating the compression limiter 1404 and female threads for receiving the captive screw 1408.

[0196] In some embodiments, the data monitoring system of the integrated tree sensor 1400 may alert the operator when the tree has grown to the point where the plunger is near the end of its stroke, at which point the integrated tree sensor 1400 can be easily adjusted to continue again at the beginning of the plunger stroke. The captive screw 1408 is loosened, then the mounting screw 1410 is unthreaded until the threads are just visible, and the integrated tree sensor 1400 is repositioned by tightening the captive screw 1408.

[0197] 14B shows the integrated tree sensor 1400 and its printed circuit board 1402 with mounting hardware including threaded rod 1420 and nuts 1422 and 1424. In some embodiments, the threaded rod 1420 (which in some embodiments may be a set screw) may have the nut 1422 pre-disposed in the correct location or may be bonded in place using, for example, a bonding adhesive (such as LOCTITE® bonding adhesive), brazing, soldering, or welding. In some embodiments, the threaded rod 1420 and nut 1422 are made as a solid piece of hardware. The integrated tree sensor 1400 may then be placed onto the threaded rod 1420 and secured distally by the nut 1424. In some embodiments, the outer nut 1424 may be a thumb nut that is knurled or tabbed so that it may be inserted without the use of tools.

[0198] FIG. 14C shows an integrated tree sensor 1400 and its printed circuit board 1402 with mounting hardware including a long threaded rod. On trees where significant growth is expected to occur, it may be desirable to mount the integrated tree sensor 1400 using a long threaded rod (e.g., 1432 in FIG. 14C) that allows the device to be easily repositioned without turning screws relative to the tree. As shown in the top panel of this example scenario, upon initial placement, the plunger 1430 of the integrated tree sensor 1400 is about 1 mm from the full extension point. After the passage of time and growth of the tree trunk (FIG. 14C, middle panel), the plunger 1430 is now nearly fully depressed after about 12 mm of radial growth of the tree trunk. Nuts 1434 and 1436 are used to secure integrated tree sensor 1400 to threaded rod 1432, and both may be adjusted to move integrated tree sensor 1400 away from it after the tree has grown. As shown in the bottom panel of FIG. 14C, nuts 1434 and 1436 are adjusted while leaving threaded rod 1432 where it was. After adjustment, plunger 1430 is again about 1 mm from its full extension point, as it was in the initial deployment (FIG. 14C, top panel).

[0199] Various amounts of plunger travel are possible with some tradeoffs. With the geometry shown, a single 1 / 4 inch long magnet will produce a magnetic field having a similar magnitude at the magnetometer while rotating about 300 degrees as the plunger moves linearly over about 12 mm of travel. A smaller geometry would produce the same rotation over a smaller amount of travel and still result in higher measurement sensitivity. A larger geometry would result in lower sensitivity and a longer travel. To achieve both long travel and high sensitivity, it is possible to use several alternating north and south pole magnet arrangements that produce a continuous rotation of the magnetic field that exceeds 360 degrees and repeats over the same number of pole pairs as are provided in the plunger. A longer support structure and spring arrangement would also be required. In some embodiments, a single magnet and 12 mm working measurement distance is a practical compromise that provides sufficient measurement sensitivity and a workable readjustment period for many tree types and applications. Example 7 Tracking changes in tree tilt using integrated tree sensors

[0200] As disclosed herein, the integrated sensors of the present disclosure can include, for example, an accelerometer that measures, tracks, or detects tree lean or falls from a tree or portions thereof (such as limbs).

[0201] Two integrated tree sensors were mounted next to each other on a leaning portion of a lemon eucalyptus tree. Figures 15A and 15B show example accelerometer data obtained from the sensors. Figure 15A shows the lean over time, including deviation from the X and Y axes over time. Figure 15B shows the pitch and roll angles (in degrees) over time from the two sensors. These data have been corrected for temperature. The fact that both sensors were in such close alignment suggests that the measurements are accurate, showing the evolution of the tree lean, with the roll angle deviating from a target value of 0 to about -0.3 degrees during the observation period. In some embodiments, if the tree progresses beyond a certain degree of change (e.g., beyond 1.0 degree), an alert may be triggered by the integrated sensor that the tree or a portion of the tree (e.g., a branch) may be at risk of falling.

Claims

1. 1. A sensor for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, said sensor comprising: a) one or more fasteners configured to be positioned in or around a plant part; b) two or more components selected from the group consisting of a densitometer, an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor; c) a processor; d) a power supply; A sensor comprising:

2. 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a printed circuit board (PCB), optionally wherein one or all of the components, the processor, and the one or more fasteners are affixed to the PCB, and optionally wherein the PCB comprises an epoxy fiberglass composite material.

3. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the power supply comprises a battery.

4. 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the power supply comprises a solar panel, optionally the power supply comprises an integrated solar panel, a hybrid capacitor, and a lithium battery, optionally the battery is a coin cell battery, and optionally the processor comprises a PCB, and the battery and / or solar panel are affixed to the PCB.

5. and optionally further comprising a housing enclosing at least the processor and a power supply, the housing is or comprises molded plastic, optionally comprising an O-ring; an overmolding covering the processor, components and PCB to hermetically seal the PCB; and / or 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the housing is or comprises a polymeric resin, optionally a glass-filled resin, optionally comprising 10-40% glass or 30% glass.

6. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a dendrometer.

7. The tree surveyor is 1) a plunger having a shaft, the plunger configured to be positioned relative to the plant part, the plunger configured to move laterally in proportion to changes in plant size; 2) a magnet mounted on or within the shaft, the magnet configured to move laterally in association with the plunger; 3) a magnetometer configured to detect the position of the magnet; Equipped with Optionally, the magnetometer is configured to measure magnetic field strength in multiple axes; Optionally, the magnet is a neodymium magnet, and / or 7. The sensor of claim 6, optionally wherein the sensor comprises a PCB, and the magnetometer is affixed to the PCB.

8. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is configured to measure a change in diameter or radius of the plant part.

9. 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to measure plant part size multiple times per day, and optionally the sensor is configured to measure plant part size at intervals of 15 minutes or less, at intervals of 5 minutes or less, or at intervals of 5 seconds.

10. 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises an accelerometer, optionally the accelerometer is a three-axis accelerometer, and / or the sensor comprises a PCB, the accelerometer being affixed to the PCB.

11. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor, and optionally the sensor comprises a PCB, the temperature sensor being affixed to the PCB.

12. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a humidity sensor, and optionally the sensor comprises a PCB, the humidity sensor being affixed to the PCB.

13. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises an optical sensor, and optionally the sensor comprises a PCB, the optical sensor being affixed to the PCB.

14. 10. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises one or more of a dendrometer, an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor, and optionally the sensor comprises a dendrometer, an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a light sensor.

15. Further comprising a transmitter, optionally comprising: (a) a Bluetooth® radio or transceiver, optionally a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) radio or transceiver; (b) a long range (LoRa) transceiver; or (c) Near Field Communication (NFC) transceiver and 10. The sensor of claim 1, optionally wherein the sensor comprises a PCB, and the transmitter is affixed to the PCB.

16. (a) the one or more fasteners comprise a screw, threaded rod, or nail, the screw, threaded rod, or nail being configured to be positioned within the plant part and to mount the sensor to the plant part; or (b) the one or more fasteners comprise one or more curved arms, the curved arms configured to be positioned around the plant part, optionally the one or more fasteners comprise two curved arms arranged in a V-shape and / or the curved arms configured to be positioned around the plant part; 2. The sensor of claim 1, wherein optionally, the one or more fasteners further comprise an elastic band configured to be wrapped around the sensor and the plant part, and / or the one or more fasteners comprise a screw, the sensor comprises a PCB, the screw is affixed to the PCB, and the PCB optionally comprises a compression limiting element around the screw.

17. (a) the plunger cap further comprises a gimbal; (b) the plunger cap is or includes molded plastic; (c) the plunger cap has a thickness of less than about 3 mm; (d) the plunger cap is configured to contact the plant part over a surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 to about 100 mm 2 ; (e) the sensor further comprises a spring surrounding or affixed to the plunger; (f) the sensor further comprises a pull tab attached to the plunger shaft opposite the plunger cap; and / or 8. The sensor of claim 7, wherein (g) the plunger shaft comprises aluminum or stainless steel, and optionally the plunger shaft is a hollow cylinder and the magnet is a cylindrical magnet positioned inside the plunger shaft.

18. (a) the screw, threaded rod, or nail comprises stainless steel, brass, aluminum, or titanium; and / or 17. The sensor of claim 16, wherein (b) the one or more fasteners comprise a thread, and the sensor further comprises a nut configured to be positioned around the thread between the sensor and the plant part, and optionally the sensor further comprises a second nut configured to be positioned around the thread on a face of the sensor distal to the plant part.

19. The one or more fasteners comprise a thread having a first end and a second end, and the sensor comprises: (i) a compression limiting element having a first opening and a second opening; (ii) Captive screws; Furthermore, the first end of the screw is configured to be positioned within the plant part and to mount the sensor to the plant part; the first opening of the compression limiting element is configured to receive the second end of the screw; the second opening of the compression limiting element is configured to receive the captive screw; 17. The sensor of claim 16, optionally the sensor further comprising a retaining ring configured to be positioned around the captive screw.

20. 17. The sensor of claim 16, wherein the one or more fasteners comprise a threaded rod, and the sensor further comprises a first nut configured to be positioned around the threaded rod between the plant part and the sensor, and a second nut configured to be positioned around the threaded rod adjacent to the sensor and distal to the plant part.

21. The sensor of claim 7 further comprising a hollow shuttle positioned about the plunger shaft.

22. (a) the plant is a tree or woody plant, optionally a crop tree, citrus, olive, nut, cocoa, oak, pine, sequoia, or maple, and optionally the plant part is a stem, trunk, stem, or branch; or 2. The sensor of claim 1, wherein (b) the plant is a vine, optionally a grapevine, and optionally the plant part is a trunk, a bud, a branch, a culm, a fruit, or a stem.

23. 1. A system for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising: a) a sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 22; b) a mobile device and / or a server; Equipped with the sensors are connected to the mobile device and / or server via wireless communication and are configured to transmit data to the mobile device and / or server; Optionally, the sensor is connected to the mobile device and / or server via Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), Long Range (LoRa), Near Field Communication (NFC), or a combination thereof.

24. (a) a mobile device, wherein the sensor is configured to transmit data to the mobile device; and / or (b) a server, wherein the sensor is configured to transmit data to the server.

24. The system of claim 23, comprising:

25. (a) the sensor is configured to transmit data relating to one or more of the magnetometer, plant part size, wireless communication signal strength, accelerometer, light sensor, humidity sensor, temperature sensor, or combinations thereof to the mobile device and / or server; (b) the mobile device comprises a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, the GPS sensor configured to obtain location information using the GPS sensor and associate the location information with the sensor; (c) the mobile device is equipped with a camera or other image sensor; and / or 24. The system of claim 23, wherein (d) the system comprises a plurality of the sensors, each sensor of the plurality being connected to the mobile device and / or server via wireless communication and configured to transmit data to the mobile device and / or server.

26. 23. A system for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics of a plurality of plants, the system comprising a plurality of sensors according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein each sensor of the plurality is configured to measure plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics of a single plant of the plurality; The system optionally includes: (a) a mobile device, wherein each sensor of the plurality is connected to the mobile device and configured to transmit data to the mobile device; and / or (b) a server, wherein each sensor of the plurality is connected to the server and configured to transmit data to the server. The system further comprises:

27. 1. A method for measuring plant part size and / or other plant part characteristics, comprising: a) attaching a sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 22 to the plant part; b) determining the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part based at least in part on data collected from the two or more components of the sensor; Including, Optionally, the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part are measured at a first time, the method further comprising measuring the size and / or other plant part characteristics of the plant part at a second time different from the first time, wherein the measurement of the size and / or other plant part characteristics at the second time is based at least in part on data collected from the two or more components of the sensor.

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