Sensor, control device, measurement system, method for controlling sensor, and method for controlling control device

Abstract

The present invention reduces the power consumption in a system that measures a parameter pertaining to moisture in soil.　This sensor comprises a measurement part and a control part. In the sensor comprising the measurement part and the control part, the measurement part measures a parameter pertaining to moisture in soil. Additionally, in the sensor comprising the measurement part and the control part, the control part performs control such that: the measurement frequency for the parameter during a first measurement period immediately before a timing at which the soil is watered is greater than a prescribed value; and the measurement frequency before the first measurement period is less than the prescribed value.

Description

Sensor, control device, measurement system, sensor control method, and control method for control device

[0001] The present technology relates to a sensor, and more particularly to a sensor for measuring moisture content, water potential, etc., a control device, a measurement system, a method for controlling the sensor, and a method for controlling the control device.

[0002] In the agricultural field, it has been necessary to measure parameters such as soil moisture content and water potential to ensure the healthy growth of crops, and to irrigate crops at an appropriate frequency and timing based on the measured values. For example, a system has been proposed in which multiple moisture sensors that measure moisture content are placed in a field, and the further the distance between the moisture sensors and the crops, the lower the moisture content measurement frequency (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-108960

[0004] In the above-mentioned conventional technology, the power consumption of the system is reduced by decreasing the measurement frequency as the distance between the moisture sensor and the crop increases. However, it is difficult to further reduce the power consumption with the above-mentioned conventional technology.

[0005] This technology was developed in light of these circumstances, and aims to reduce power consumption in systems that measure parameters related to soil moisture.

[0006] The present technology has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a first aspect thereof is a sensor including a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture, and a control unit that controls the measurement frequency of the parameter to a value higher than a predetermined value during a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value, and a control method therefor, which has the effect of reducing the power consumption of the sensor.

[0007] In addition, in the first aspect, the sensor may further include a communication unit that receives predetermined setting information, thereby providing an effect that the setting information is set in the sensor.

[0008] In this first aspect, the setting information may include the irrigation timing, and the first measurement period may be a period from a timing that is a predetermined time before the irrigation timing to the irrigation timing, thereby providing an effect that measurement is performed based on the set irrigation timing.

[0009] In this first aspect, the setting information may include a predetermined measurement threshold, and the first measurement period may be a period from a timing at which the parameter that does not meet the measurement threshold is measured to a timing at which the irrigation is performed, thereby providing an effect that measurement is performed based on the set measurement threshold.

[0010] In the first aspect, the setting information may include information indicating whether the sensor is installed indoors or outdoors, thereby providing an effect of performing control according to the installation location.

[0011] In addition, in this first aspect, the control unit may control the measurement frequency within a second measurement period immediately after the watering timing to a value higher than the predetermined value, and control the measurement frequency within a period that does not fall under either the first measurement period or the second measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. This brings about an effect of improving convenience for the user.

[0012] In addition, in this first aspect, the control unit may control the measurement frequency within a third measurement period immediately after rainfall to a value higher than the predetermined value, and control the measurement frequency within a period that does not fall within any of the first measurement period, the second measurement period, and the third measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. This brings about an effect of improving convenience for a user.

[0013] In this first aspect, the parameter may be a moisture content, thereby providing an effect of measuring the moisture content.

[0014] In this first aspect, the parameter may be water potential, thereby providing the effect of measuring the water potential.

[0015] A second aspect of the present technology is a control device and a control method including: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls, using the control signal, a measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before a timing to irrigate the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value, thereby reducing power consumption of the sensor.

[0016] In addition, in this second aspect, the parameters include a moisture content and a water potential, the sensors include a moisture sensor that measures the moisture content and a water potential sensor that measures the water potential, and the control unit may cause the moisture sensor to measure a new moisture content if the measured moisture content exceeds a predetermined switching threshold, and cause the water potential sensor to measure the water potential if the measured moisture content does not exceed the switching threshold. This provides the effect of switching to an appropriate sensor depending on the moisture content.

[0017] A third aspect of the present technology is a measurement system including a control device that includes a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture, a communication unit that transmits a control signal to the sensor, and a control unit that controls, using the control signal, a measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before a timing to irrigate the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value, thereby reducing power consumption of the measurement system.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present technology is a sensor including a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture and a control unit that controls the measurement accuracy of the parameter based on predetermined setting information, and a control method thereof, which reduces the power consumption of the sensor.

[0019] 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system according to a first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system when a sensor is changed according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a user terminal according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining setting contents according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a moisture sensor according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a measurement method of a moisture sensor according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example operation of a user terminal according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 8 is an example screen for setting a watering time according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 9 is an example screen for setting a moisture content threshold according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 10 is an example screen for setting a measurement interval and a measurement time according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 11 is an example screen for displaying a remaining battery level according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 12 is a graph showing an example of a measurement method when water is supplied indoors according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 13 is a graph showing another example of a measurement method when water is supplied indoors according to the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a control device in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system in a second embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 2 is an example of a setting screen for a measurement interval and a measurement time immediately before watering in the second embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 3 is an example of a setting screen for a measurement interval and a measurement time immediately after watering in the second embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 4 is a graph showing an example of a measurement method when water is supplied indoors in the second embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 5 is a graph showing another example of a measurement method when water is supplied indoors in the second embodiment of the present technology. FIG. 6 is a graph showing an example of a measurement method when water is supplied outdoors in the second embodiment of the present technology.It is a figure for demonstrating the setting contents in 3rd Embodiment of this technology It is a block diagram which shows an example of a configuration of the measurement system in 4th Embodiment of this technology It is a flowchart which shows an example of an operation of the control device in 4th Embodiment of this technology.

[0020] Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present technology (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described. The description will be given in the following order: 1. First embodiment (an example in which the measurement frequency immediately before irrigation is increased) 2. Second embodiment (an example in which the measurement frequency immediately before irrigation and immediately after irrigation is increased) 3. Third embodiment (an example in which measurement accuracy is controlled) 4. Fourth embodiment (an example in which sensors are switched and the measurement frequency immediately before irrigation is increased)

[0021] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a measurement system 200 according to a first embodiment of the present technology. The measurement system 200 is for measuring parameters related to soil moisture (such as the amount of moisture), and includes a user terminal 210 and a moisture sensor 300. The moisture sensor 300 is installed in the soil of a field, a greenhouse, or the like.

[0022] The user terminal 210 is a terminal for performing various settings. This user terminal 210 can access the moisture sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120 via wired or wireless communication. The user terminal 210 generates setting information indicating the settings according to user operations and transmits it to the moisture sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120. The user terminal 210 may be, for example, a smartphone or a personal computer.

[0023] The moisture sensor 300 measures the moisture content of soil. For example, the volumetric moisture content, which indicates the amount of moisture, is measured, and percentages are used as the unit of measurement. The moisture sensor 300 also receives setting information from the user terminal 210. Based on the setting information, the moisture sensor 300 controls the frequency of moisture measurement during a measurement period immediately prior to the timing of irrigation to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controls the frequency of measurement before and after that period to a value lower than the predetermined value. The moisture sensor 300 transmits measurement information indicating the measurement results to the irrigation device 120 and the user terminal 210. The moisture sensor 300 is an example of a sensor described in the claims.

[0024] The irrigation device 120 irrigates the soil on which the moisture sensor 300 is installed. This irrigation device 120 receives setting information from the user terminal 210 and irrigates according to the setting information. Furthermore, when the irrigation device 120 receives measurement information from the moisture sensor 300, it changes the next amount of irrigation water according to the measurement results. For example, the irrigation water amount is controlled to a lower value as the measured moisture amount increases. A sprinkler or a watering hose is used as the irrigation device 120.

[0025] The number of moisture sensors 300 in the measurement system 200 is arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged. The number of irrigation devices 120 is also arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged.

[0026] Furthermore, although the measurement system 200 measures the moisture content using the moisture sensor 300, the present invention is not limited to this configuration.

[0027] 2, a water potential sensor 400 may be placed in place of the moisture sensor 300, and the water potential, which indicates the water stress of the soil, may be measured instead of the water content. This also applies to the modifications of the first embodiment and subsequent modifications.

[0028] For example, a tensiometer or a sensor in which a porous body is loaded onto a dielectric constant measurement sensor is used as the water potential sensor 400. The unit of water potential is kilopascal (kPa) or its logarithmic representation, pF.

[0029] In general, the water potential sensor 400 can measure dry area values ​​with a wider dynamic range and higher resolution than the moisture sensor 300 .

[0030] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user terminal 210 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. The user terminal 210 includes an operation unit 211, a control unit 212, a display unit 213, and a communication unit 214.

[0031] The operation unit 211 generates an operation signal in accordance with a user's operation. The control unit 212 controls the entire user terminal 210. The control unit 212 generates setting information in accordance with the operation signal and transmits it to the moisture sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120 via the communication unit 214. The setting information will be described in detail later.

[0032] The display unit 213 displays various setting screens for setting, etc. The communication unit 214 transmits and receives various information such as setting information to and from devices and equipment such as the moisture sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120 via wired or wireless communication.

[0033] Although the user performs the setting using the user terminal 210, the configuration is not limited to this. The user can also input the setting information directly into the moisture sensor 300 without using the user terminal 210 during the setting.

[0034] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining setting contents in the first embodiment of the present technology. In the figure, "a" is a diagram in which cultivation methods are classified. In the figure, "b" is a diagram showing an example of setting information.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 1A, the cultivation methods are classified into, for example, five types, each of which is assigned a line number LN1 to LN5.

[0036] In line number LN1, the installation location of the moisture sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120 (in other words, the cultivation location) is indoors, and irrigation is performed by the irrigation device 120. The irrigation device 120 also performs irrigation when the irrigation time set by the user has elapsed. The moisture sensor 300 also measures the moisture amount at regular intervals only during the measurement period immediately prior to the irrigation time. The irrigation device 120 determines the next irrigation amount based on the measurement results.

[0037] In line number LN2, the installation location (cultivation location) of the moisture sensor 300 and the like is also indoors, and irrigation is performed by the irrigation device 120. The irrigation device 120 starts irrigation when the moisture content measured is below a preset irrigation threshold. The moisture sensor 300 starts measurement at regular intervals, with the measurement frequency being lower than a predetermined value. However, during a period in which the moisture content satisfies the following formula, the moisture sensor 300 performs additional measurements with a measurement frequency higher than the predetermined value: (measurement threshold) > (moisture content) > (irrigation threshold) ...Equation 1 In the above formula, the measurement threshold is a value higher than the irrigation threshold and is set, for example, by the user.

[0038] In addition, in line number LN2, the irrigation device 120 determines the next amount of irrigation water based on the measurement result of the water amount. As described above, the measurement result of the water amount is also used to control the timing of irrigation.

[0039] In line number LN3, the installation location (cultivation location) of the moisture sensor 300 and other devices is outdoors, and watering is performed by the irrigation device 120. Furthermore, since it is outdoors, rainfall is expected. The irrigation device 120 also performs watering when the watering time set by the user has elapsed. The moisture sensor 300 also measures the amount of water at regular intervals only during the measurement period immediately prior to the watering time. The irrigation device 120 determines the next amount of watering based on the measurement results.

[0040] In line number LN4, the installation location (cultivation location) of the moisture sensor 300 and other devices is outdoors, and irrigation is performed by the irrigation device 120. Furthermore, because it is outdoors, rainfall is expected. The irrigation device 120 starts irrigation when the moisture content measured is below a preset irrigation threshold. The moisture sensor 300 starts measurement at regular intervals, with the measurement frequency lower than a predetermined value. However, during the period in which the moisture content satisfies Equation 1, the moisture sensor 300 performs additional measurements with a measurement frequency higher than the predetermined value. The irrigation device 120 determines the next irrigation amount based on the moisture content measurement results. As mentioned above, the moisture content measurement results are also used to control the timing of irrigation.

[0041] In line number LN5, the installation location (cultivation location) of the moisture sensor 300 and the like is also outdoors. However, irrigation is not performed, and only rainfall is expected. The timing of measurement by the moisture sensor 300 is not fixed, and it is performed, for example, before and after rainfall or at regular intervals.

[0042] The user selects one of the five cultivation methods described above. If line number LN1 or LN3 is selected, the user sets at least the irrigation time. The water content measurement interval and measurement time are preset to predetermined initial values, but the user can change these values.

[0043] Furthermore, when line number LN2 or LN4 is selected, the user sets at least the measurement threshold. The moisture content measurement interval and measurement time for high-frequency measurement and low-frequency measurement are preset to predetermined initial values, but the user can change the measurement interval and measurement time for high-frequency measurement.

[0044] As illustrated in b in the figure, the setting information corresponding to line numbers other than LN5 includes at least the watering time or the measurement threshold. For example, the setting information of the identification information A corresponding to the line number LN1 includes T as the watering time. Ａ The setting information of the identification information B corresponding to the line number LN2 includes information indicating TH ＢThe setting information of the identification information C corresponding to the line number LN3 includes information indicating the watering time T Ｃ The setting information of the identification information D corresponding to the line number LN4 includes information indicating TH Ｄ In addition, if the user changes the measurement interval and measurement time, the setting information further includes information indicating the values ​​after the changes.

[0045] As illustrated in a and b in the figure, the user terminal 210 generates setting information according to the cultivation method, allowing the user to set the desired measurement method in accordance with the cultivation method.

[0046] 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the moisture sensor 300 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. The moisture sensor 300 includes a measurement unit 310, a measurement section 320, and a battery 330. The measurement unit 310 includes a communication section 311, a sensor control section 312, and a storage section 313.

[0047] The communication unit 311 transmits and receives various types of information to and from devices and equipment such as the user terminal 210 and the irrigation device 120. The communication unit 311 receives setting information from the user terminal 210. The communication unit 311 also transmits measurement information to the irrigation device 120 and the user terminal 210.

[0048] The sensor control unit 312 controls the entire moisture sensor 300. The sensor control unit 312 controls the measurement unit 320 based on the setting information to measure the moisture content.

[0049] When line number LN1 or LN3 is selected, the watering time is set by the user as described above. In this case, the sensor control unit 312 measures the water content at regular intervals only during the measurement period immediately before the watering time.

[0050] When line number LN2 or LN4 is selected, the measurement threshold is set by the user as described above. In this case, the sensor control unit 312 starts measurement at a low frequency and then measures at a high frequency within a period that satisfies Equation 1.

[0051] The sensor control unit 312 also generates measurement information indicating the measurement results of the measurement unit 320 and transmits it to the irrigation device 120 and the user terminal 210 via the communication unit 311. If necessary, the sensor control unit 312 also determines the remaining charge of the battery 330 and transmits information indicating the remaining charge to the user terminal 210. Note that the sensor control unit 312 can also transmit information (such as terminal voltage) necessary for calculating the remaining charge, and the remaining charge can be calculated on the user terminal 210 side.

[0052] The storage unit 313 stores setting information and measurement information. The measurement unit 320 measures the moisture content of the soil. The battery 330 supplies power to the measurement unit 310.

[0053] 6 is a diagram for explaining a measurement method of the moisture sensor 300 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. For example, a spatial frequency domain transmissometry (SFDT) sensor is used as the moisture sensor 300. In the SFDT method, the measurement unit 320 includes a transmitting probe 321 and a receiving probe 322. These probes are embedded in soil M at a predetermined interval D.

[0054] The measurement unit 310 causes the transmitting probe 321 to transmit electromagnetic waves EW and the receiving probe 322 to receive the electromagnetic waves. The frequency of the electromagnetic waves EW is swept within a predetermined frequency range. For example, the frequency is swept at intervals of 50 megahertz (MHz) within a range of 1 to 9 gigahertz (GHz). In this case, the measurement unit 310 performs detection at 161 points within the frequency range and obtains S parameters using a vector network analyzer or the like. The measurement unit 310 calculates the moisture content by performing calculations on these S parameters.

[0055] Furthermore, if it is desired to improve the signal-to-noise (SN) ratio, the measurement unit 310 sweeps the frequency within the frequency range multiple times to calculate the S parameters multiple times, and calculates the moisture content from the average value of these.

[0056] It should be noted that sensors other than the SFDT type, such as a TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) type or a capacitance type, can also be used as the moisture sensor 300 .

[0057] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the user terminal 210 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. This operation is started, for example, when a predetermined application for setting is executed.

[0058] The user terminal 210 accepts a line number selection operation and stores the selected line number (step S901).The user terminal 210 determines whether either line number LN1 or LN3 has been selected (step S902).

[0059] If either line number LN1 or LN3 is selected (step S902: Yes), the user terminal 210 accepts input of the irrigation time and stores the input irrigation time (step S903).

[0060] On the other hand, if any of line numbers LN2, LN4, and LN5 is selected (step S902: No), the user terminal 210 determines whether any of line numbers LN2 and LN4 is selected (step S904).If any of line numbers LN2 and LN4 is selected (step S904: Yes), the user terminal 210 accepts input of a measurement threshold and stores the input measurement threshold (step S905).

[0061] After step S903 or S905, the user terminal 210 receives input of the measurement interval and measurement time immediately before irrigation and stores the input values ​​(step S906). Note that step S906 is executed when the user changes the initial values ​​of at least one of the measurement interval and measurement time.

[0062] The user terminal 210 then displays the remaining battery power and accepts a reset operation by the user (step S907). The user terminal 210 determines whether a reset operation has been performed (step S908). If a reset operation has been performed (step S908: Yes), the user terminal 210 repeatedly executes step S901 and subsequent steps.

[0063] On the other hand, if a reset operation has not been performed (step S908: No), or if line number LN5 has been selected (step S904: No), the user terminal 210 generates and transmits setting information (step S909). After step S909, the user terminal 210 ends the setting operation.

[0064] Next, the setting screen displayed on the user terminal 210 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11. FIG.

[0065] 8 shows an example of a watering time setting screen 501 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. When line number LN1 or LN3 is selected, the user terminal 210 displays the setting screen shown in the figure. For example, if there are multiple cultivation locations, the user can set the watering time for each location. In the figure, the watering time is set for each of houses H1 and H2.

[0066] 9 shows an example of a moisture content threshold setting screen 502 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. When line number LN2 or LN4 is selected, the user terminal 210 displays the setting screen shown in the figure. For example, if multiple moisture sensors 300 are installed, the user can set a measurement threshold for each sensor. In the figure, a measurement threshold is set for each of moisture sensors S1 and S2.

[0067] 10 shows an example of a setting screen 503 for the measurement interval and measurement time according to the first embodiment of the present technology. When a user performs an operation to change the values ​​of the measurement interval and measurement time, the user terminal 210 displays the setting screen shown in the figure. For example, if multiple moisture sensors 300 are installed, the user can set the measurement interval and measurement time for each sensor. In the figure, the measurement interval and measurement time are set for each of the moisture sensors S1 and S2.

[0068] FIG. 11 shows an example of a battery remaining capacity display screen 504 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. After the user configures the settings illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10 , the user terminal 210 displays the screen of FIG. 11 as needed. For example, if multiple moisture sensors 300 are installed, the remaining battery capacity is displayed for each sensor. While the remaining battery capacity can be expressed in milliampere hours (mAh) or the like, for user convenience, in FIG. 11 it is expressed in terms of the number of days the battery will last. This number of days varies depending on the various settings illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 10 . The user checks the remaining battery capacity and resets it if necessary.

[0069] The user terminal 210 may also suggest settings that will further reduce power consumption using an application. In this case, for example, a message such as "If you change the number of measurements or measurement time to XX, the battery life will improve to YY days" may be displayed on the user terminal 210.

[0070] Furthermore, the user terminal 210 has separate settings screens, as shown in FIG. 10 and the remaining battery level display screen, as shown in FIG. 11, but the contents of these screens can also be displayed together on a single screen.

[0071] Next, a method for measuring each of the line numbers LN1 to L4 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0072] Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining a measurement method for a line number LN1 where water is supplied indoors according to the first embodiment of the present technology. In the figure, the vertical axis represents the water content, and the horizontal axis represents time. The same applies to Figs. 13 to 15. Note that when the water potential sensor 400 is used, the water potential is measured instead of the water content.

[0073] In Figure 12, triangles indicate measurement information, and dashed lines indicate actual moisture content. After a watering time, such as time T2, the moisture content increases. During a measurement period from time T1, a predetermined period before the watering time, to time T2, the moisture sensor 300 measures the moisture content at regular intervals. Note that the measurement period from time T1 to time T2 in the figure is an example of the first measurement period described in the claims.

[0074] In addition, in the figure, the moisture sensor 300 performs measurements only during the measurement period immediately before irrigation and does not perform measurements outside of this measurement period, but this control is not limited to this. The moisture sensor 300 can also perform measurements during periods that do not fall under the measurement periods in the figure (such as before time T1), and the measurement frequency can be lower than the measurement frequency during the measurement period immediately before irrigation.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the measurement frequency of the water content during the measurement period immediately before irrigation (such as the period from time T1 to T2) is higher than the predetermined value, while the measurement frequency outside of that measurement period is lower than the predetermined value.

[0076] 13 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method for the case of line number LN2, where water is supplied indoors according to the first embodiment of the present technology. In the figure, circles indicate infrequent periodic measurement information, and triangles indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements. The dashed-dotted line indicates the actual moisture content. For example, the measurement interval for circles is set to 60 minutes, and the measurement interval for triangles is set to 10 minutes.

[0077] The moisture sensor 300 begins periodic, low-frequency measurements. When a moisture content below the measurement threshold is measured at time T1 or the like, the moisture sensor 300 begins high-frequency additional measurements. Then, when a moisture content below the irrigation threshold is measured at time T2 or the like, irrigation is performed, and the moisture content increases. After time T2 has passed, the moisture sensor 300 ends the high-frequency additional measurements. In this way, during the period from time T1 to time T2 immediately before irrigation, the moisture sensor 300 continues periodic, low-frequency measurements while performing high-frequency additional measurements. Therefore, the moisture content measurement frequency during the measurement period immediately before irrigation is higher than a predetermined value, while the measurement frequency outside of that measurement period is lower than the predetermined value. Note that the moisture sensor 300 can also switch the measurement frequency from low to high during the measurement period immediately before irrigation, rather than performing additional measurements.

[0078] 14 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method for line number LN3, which is supplied with water outdoors, according to the first embodiment of the present technology. In the diagram, triangles indicate measurement information, and dashed lines indicate actual water content. After a watering time, such as time T2, has passed, the water content increases. Furthermore, after a rainfall time, such as time T3, has passed, the water content also increases. The measurement method in the diagram is the same as that for line number LN1.

[0079] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method for line number LN4, which is supplied with water outdoors, according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Circles in the figure indicate infrequent periodic measurement information, and triangles indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements. The dashed-dotted line indicates the actual water content. After a watering time, such as time T2, the water content increases. Furthermore, after a rainfall time, such as time T3, the water content increases. The measurement method in the figure is the same as that for line number LN2.

[0080] As illustrated in Figures 12 to 15, the moisture sensor 300 controls the frequency of moisture measurement during the measurement period immediately before irrigation to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency outside of that measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

[0081] In actual cultivation, it is preferable to measure the moisture content more frequently immediately before irrigation in order to accurately measure the moisture content, but since moisture content at other times is not used as an indicator of irrigation, there are cases in which a lower measurement frequency is not a practical problem. Therefore, by having the moisture sensor 300 measure at a high frequency during the measurement period immediately before irrigation, it is possible to ensure practicality while reducing the power consumption of the moisture sensor 300 compared to when measurements are always performed at a high frequency. This allows the battery 330 to last longer.

[0082] 12 to 15, the user terminal 210 acquires the irrigation timing from the irrigation time or irrigation threshold in the setting information, but this configuration is not limited to this. For example, the irrigation device 120 can generate a control signal instructing the start and end of the measurement period based on the setting information and transmit it to the user terminal 210. In this case, the user terminal 210 does not need to acquire the irrigation timing from the setting information.

[0083] Thus, according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the moisture sensor 300 increases the moisture content measurement frequency during the measurement period immediately before irrigation above a predetermined value, and decreases the measurement frequency outside that measurement period below that predetermined value, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0084] [Modification] In the first embodiment described above, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement frequency, but this configuration is not limiting, and the measurement frequency can also be controlled by a device external to the moisture sensor 300. The measurement system 200 in this modification of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the measurement frequency is controlled by a control device external to the moisture sensor 300.

[0085] 16 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system 200 according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present technology. The measurement system 200 according to the modification of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it further includes a control device 220 in addition to a user terminal 210 and a moisture sensor 300. The user terminal 210 generates setting information and transmits it to the control device 220.

[0086] The control device 220 controls the water sensor 300 and the irrigation device 120 in an integrated manner. As the control device 220, a data logger or the like is used.

[0087] The number of moisture sensors 300 in the measurement system 200 is arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged. The number of irrigation devices 120 is also arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged.

[0088] Furthermore, although the user performs the settings using the user terminal 210, the configuration is not limited to this. The user can also input the setting information directly into the control device 220 without using the user terminal 210 when performing the settings.

[0089] 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a control device 220 according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present technology. The control device 220 includes a communication unit 221, an irrigation and sensor control unit 222, and a storage unit 223.

[0090] The communication unit 221 transmits and receives various types of information between the user terminal 210, the moisture sensor 300, and the irrigation device 120.

[0091] The irrigation / sensor control unit 222 receives setting information from the user terminal 210 via the communication unit 221. Then, based on the setting information, the irrigation / sensor control unit 222 generates an irrigation control signal for controlling the irrigation device 120 and causes the irrigation device 120 to irrigate via the communication unit 221. The irrigation / sensor control unit 222 also generates a sensor control signal for controlling the moisture sensor 300 based on the setting information and transmits the signal to the moisture sensor 300 via the communication unit 221 to cause the moisture sensor 300 to measure the moisture content. The method for controlling the irrigation timing of the irrigation device 120 and the measurement frequency of the moisture sensor 300 is the same as in the first embodiment. The irrigation / sensor control unit 222 also receives measurement information from the moisture sensor 300 via the communication unit 221 and uses the measurement information to control the irrigation device 120. The memory unit 223 stores the setting information and measurement information.

[0092] 16 and 17, instead of the moisture sensor 300, the control device 220 controls the moisture measurement frequency to a value higher than a predetermined value during the measurement period immediately before irrigation using a sensor control signal, and controls the measurement frequency to a value lower than the predetermined value outside of that measurement period. This reduces the processing load on the moisture sensor 300.

[0093] As described above, according to the modification of the first embodiment of the present technology, the control device 220 controls the measurement frequency, so that the processing load on the moisture sensor 300 can be reduced.

[0094] 2. Second Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, the moisture sensor 300 increased the measurement frequency immediately before irrigation, but there are cases where frequent measurements are required immediately after irrigation to confirm whether irrigation has been performed appropriately. The moisture sensor 300 in this second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the measurement frequency immediately before and immediately after irrigation is increased.

[0095] 18 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a measurement system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present technology. The moisture sensor 300 according to the second embodiment can receive rainfall information and the like from the weather server 110 and use the information for control.

[0096] The moisture sensor 300 can also access the external sensor 130. For example, another moisture sensor, a camera, or a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor can be used as the external sensor 130. The moisture sensor 300 can receive image data and location information from the camera or GPS sensor and use the data for control purposes.

[0097] Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the user can also change the measurement interval and measurement time of the moisture content "just before watering."

[0098] In the second embodiment, the water content is also measured during the measurement period "immediately after watering." The measurement interval and measurement time are preset to predetermined initial values, but the user can change these values.

[0099] In addition, in the lines LN3 and LN4 where water is supplied outdoors, the moisture sensor 300 can perform measurements not only immediately after watering but also immediately after rainfall with high frequency. The measurement interval and measurement time immediately after rainfall are set to the same values ​​as those immediately after watering, for example.

[0100] As shown in the example of FIG. 19, when an operation is performed to change the measurement interval and measurement time "immediately before watering," the user terminal 210 displays a setting screen 505 for that purpose.

[0101] As shown in the example of FIG. 20, when an operation is performed to change the measurement interval and measurement time "immediately after watering," the user terminal 210 displays a setting screen 506 for that purpose.

[0102] Next, a method for measuring each of the line numbers LN1 to L4 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0103] Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a measurement method for a line number LN1 where water is supplied indoors according to the second embodiment of the present technology. In the figure, the vertical axis represents the water content, and the horizontal axis represents time. The same applies to Figs. 22 to 24. Note that when the water potential sensor 400 is used, water potential is measured instead of water content.

[0104] In Figure 21, triangles indicate measurement information immediately before irrigation, and dashed lines indicate actual moisture content. Squares indicate measurement information immediately after irrigation. During the measurement period from time T1, a predetermined period before the irrigation time T2, to time T2, the moisture sensor 300 measures the moisture content at regular intervals. The time immediately after irrigation is designated as T3, and the time a predetermined time has passed since T3 is designated as T4. The moisture sensor 300 also measures the moisture content at regular intervals during the measurement period from time T3 immediately after irrigation to time T4. The measurement period from time T3 to time T4 is an example of the second measurement period described in the claims.

[0105] As shown in the figure, the measurement frequency of the water content is higher than the predetermined value during the measurement period immediately before irrigation (such as the period from time T1 to T2) and the measurement period immediately after irrigation (such as the period from time T3 to T4), while the measurement frequency is lower than the predetermined value outside of these periods.

[0106] 22 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method for line number LN2, where water is supplied indoors, according to the second embodiment of the present technology. Circles in the figure indicate infrequent periodic measurement information, triangles indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements taken immediately before irrigation, and squares indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements taken immediately after irrigation. The dashed-dotted line indicates the actual water content.

[0107] The moisture sensor 300 begins low-frequency, regular measurements. When a moisture content below the measurement threshold is measured at time T1 or the like, the moisture sensor 300 begins high-frequency additional measurements. Then, when a moisture content below the irrigation threshold is measured at time T2 or the like, the moisture sensor 300 ends high-frequency additional measurements. The time immediately after irrigation is designated as T3, and the time a predetermined amount of time has passed since T3 is designated as T4. The moisture sensor 300 also performs high-frequency additional measurements during the period from time T3 immediately after irrigation to time T4. The moisture sensor 300 can also continue to perform high-frequency additional measurements throughout the period from time T1 to time T4.

[0108] Thus, during the measurement period from time T1 to time T2 immediately before irrigation, the moisture sensor 300 continues regular, low-frequency measurements while also performing additional measurements at a higher frequency. Also, during the measurement period from time T3 to time T4 immediately after irrigation, the moisture sensor 300 continues regular, low-frequency measurements while also performing additional measurements at a higher frequency. Therefore, the moisture measurement frequency is higher than a predetermined value during the measurement periods immediately before irrigation and immediately after irrigation, and lower than the predetermined value outside of these periods. Note that the moisture sensor 300 can also switch the measurement frequency from low to high rather than performing additional measurements during the measurement periods immediately before or immediately after irrigation.

[0109] 23 is a diagram for explaining a measurement method for line number LN3 where water is supplied outdoors in the second embodiment of the present technology. Squares indicate measurement information immediately after watering, and crosses indicate measurement information immediately after rainfall. Triangles in the figure indicate measurement information, and the dashed-dotted line indicates the actual water content. The measurement methods immediately before and immediately after watering are the same as those for line number LN1.

[0110] The moisture sensor 300 also acquires the time of rainfall, for example, from rainfall information transmitted by the weather server 110 or from an external sensor 130 (such as another moisture sensor). The time immediately after the rainfall is designated as T5, and the time a predetermined time has elapsed since T5 is designated as T6. The moisture sensor 300 also measures the moisture content at regular intervals during the measurement period from time T5 immediately after the rainfall to time T6. The measurement period from time T5 to time T6 is an example of a third measurement period described in the claims.

[0111] As shown in the figure, the measurement frequency of the water content is higher than the predetermined value during the measurement periods immediately before and after irrigation and during the measurement period immediately after rainfall (such as the period from time T5 to T6). On the other hand, the measurement frequency is lower than the predetermined value during periods other than these.

[0112] 24 is a diagram illustrating a measurement method for line number LN4 where water is supplied outdoors according to the second embodiment of the present technology. Circles in the figure indicate infrequent periodic measurement information, and triangles indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements immediately before irrigation. Squares indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements immediately after irrigation, and crosses indicate measurement information from frequent additional measurements immediately after rainfall. The dashed-dotted line indicates the actual water content. The infrequent measurement method and the frequent measurement methods immediately before and immediately after irrigation are the same as those for line number LN2.

[0113] During the period from time T5 to time T6 immediately after the rainfall, the moisture sensor 300 continues to perform regular low-frequency measurements while also performing additional measurements at a high frequency. Alternatively, the moisture sensor 300 switches the measurement frequency from low to high during this period. Therefore, the moisture measurement frequency is higher than the predetermined value during the measurement periods immediately before and immediately after irrigation and the measurement period immediately after rainfall, and is lower than the predetermined value outside of these periods.

[0114] As described above, by increasing the frequency of measurements immediately after irrigation, the user can check whether irrigation is being performed appropriately. As a result, user convenience can be improved. Furthermore, by increasing the frequency of measurements immediately after rainfall, the user can check the effects of rainfall, and the irrigation device 120 can control irrigation taking the effects of rainfall into account. Furthermore, the measurement system 200 can accurately predict changes in water content over time with minimal measurements.

[0115] It should be noted that the modified example of the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0116] As described above, according to the second embodiment of the present technology, the moisture sensor 300 increases the measurement frequency immediately after irrigation as well as immediately before irrigation above a predetermined value, thereby improving user convenience.

[0117] 3. Third Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement frequency, but this is not limited to this configuration. The moisture sensor 300 in this third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it controls the measurement accuracy instead of the measurement frequency.

[0118] 25 is a diagram illustrating the settings in the third embodiment of the present technology. When line numbers LN2 and LN4 are selected, the moisture sensor 300 periodically performs measurements with low accuracy. However, within a period that satisfies formula 1, the moisture sensor 300 periodically performs measurements with high accuracy.

[0119] For example, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement accuracy by changing the number of frequency sweep points within a frequency range. If the moisture sensor 300 sweeps every 50 megahertz (MHz) within a range of 1 to 9 gigahertz (GHz) during a high-accuracy period, it can reduce the number of sweep points by, for example, sweeping every 500 megahertz (MHz) within that range during a low-accuracy period.

[0120] Alternatively, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement accuracy by changing the frequency range: if the moisture sensor 300 sweeps within a range of 1 to 9 gigahertz (GHz) during a high-accuracy period, the moisture sensor 300 may narrow the sweep range to 1 to 6 gigahertz (GHz) during a low-accuracy period, for example.

[0121] Alternatively, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement accuracy by changing the number of times averaging is performed. When the moisture sensor 300 measures the S-parameters multiple times within a high-accuracy period and calculates the moisture content from the average value of these measurements, for example, it is sufficient to measure the S-parameters only once within a low-accuracy period, thereby reducing the number of times averaging is performed.

[0122] As described above, by the moisture sensor 300 controlling the measurement accuracy based on the setting information, the power consumption of the moisture sensor 300 can be reduced compared to when measurements are always performed with high accuracy.

[0123] It should be noted that the modified example of the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be applied to the third embodiment.

[0124] As described above, according to the third embodiment of the present technology, the moisture sensor 300 controls the measurement accuracy based on the setting information, and therefore, power consumption can be reduced.

[0125] 4. Fourth Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, the moisture sensor 300 measures the moisture content, but when the soil is relatively dry, the water potential sensor 400 can perform measurements with a wider dynamic range and higher resolution. The measurement system 200 in this fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it switches between the moisture sensor 300 and the water potential sensor 400 depending on the moisture content.

[0126] 26 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a measurement system 200 according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology. The measurement system 200 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it further includes a control device 220 and a water potential sensor 400 in addition to a user terminal 210 and a moisture sensor 300.

[0127] The control device 220 controls the water sensor 300, the water potential sensor 400, and the irrigation device 120. The control device 220 also controls switching between the water sensor 300 and the water potential sensor 400 depending on the water content. Details of the control will be described later.

[0128] The number of moisture sensors 300 in the measurement system 200 is arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged. The number of irrigation devices 120 is also arbitrary, and two or more may be arranged.

[0129] 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the control device 220 according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology. This operation is started, for example, when the measurement start time immediately before or immediately after irrigation has passed.

[0130] The control device 220 stops the measurement operation of the water potential sensor 400 and controls the moisture sensor 300 to measure the moisture content (step S911).

[0131] Then, it is determined whether the measured moisture content is equal to or less than a predetermined switching threshold (step S912). If the moisture content exceeds the predetermined switching threshold (step S912: No), the control device 220 stops the measurement operation of the water potential sensor 400 and continues to have the moisture sensor 300 measure the moisture content (step S913).

[0132] On the other hand, if the water content is equal to or less than the predetermined switching threshold (step S912: Yes), the control device 220 stops the measurement operation of the water sensor 300 and causes the water potential sensor 400 to measure the water potential (step S913). The measurement of step S913 or S914 is continued until the measurement period immediately before or after irrigation ends.

[0133] The control illustrated in the figure is executed for each of line numbers LN1 to LN4. As illustrated in the figure, by switching between the moisture sensor 300 and the water potential sensor 400 depending on the moisture content, the appropriate sensor can be used to measure, improving convenience. Furthermore, by using only one of the moisture sensor 300 and the water potential sensor 400 for measurement, the power consumption of the measurement system 200 can be reduced compared to when both sensors are used for measurement.

[0134] The second and third embodiments can be applied to the fourth embodiment.

[0135] Thus, according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology, the control device 220 switches between the moisture sensor 300 and the water potential sensor 400, thereby improving convenience and reducing power consumption.

[0136] Note that the above-described embodiment shows an example for realizing the present technology, and the matters in the embodiment and the matters specifying the invention in the claims correspond to each other. Similarly, the matters specifying the invention in the claims and the matters in the embodiment of the present technology having the same name correspond to each other. However, the present technology is not limited to the embodiment, and can be realized by applying various modifications to the embodiment within the scope of the gist thereof.

[0137] The processing procedures described in the above embodiments may be considered as a method having a series of these procedures, or as a program for causing a computer to execute the series of procedures, or as a recording medium for storing the program. Examples of such a recording medium include a CD (Compact Disc), an MD (MiniDisc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a memory card, and a Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc.

[0138] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be present.

[0139] The present technology may also be configured as follows: (1) A sensor comprising: a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement frequency of the parameter during a first measurement period immediately before a timing to water the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (2) The sensor according to (1), further comprising a communication unit that receives predetermined setting information. (3) The sensor according to (2), wherein the setting information includes the watering timing, and the first measurement period is a period from a timing a predetermined time before the watering timing to the watering timing. (4) The sensor according to (2) or (3), wherein the setting information includes a predetermined measurement threshold, and the first measurement period is a period from a timing when the parameter less than the measurement threshold is measured to the watering timing. (5) The sensor according to any of (2) to (4), wherein the setting information includes information indicating whether the sensor is installed indoors or outdoors. (6) The sensor according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit controls the measurement frequency during a second measurement period immediately after the watering timing to a value higher than the predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency during a period that does not correspond to either the first measurement period or the second measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (7) The sensor according to (6), wherein the control unit controls the measurement frequency during a third measurement period immediately after rainfall to a value higher than the predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency during a period that does not correspond to either the first measurement period, the second measurement period, or the third measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (8) The sensor according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the parameter is water content. (9) The sensor according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the parameter is water potential. (10) A control device comprising: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value using the control signal, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.(11) The control device according to (10), wherein the parameters include a water content and a water potential, the sensor includes a water sensor that measures the water content and a water potential sensor that measures the water potential, and the control unit causes the water sensor to measure a new water content when the measured water content exceeds a predetermined switching threshold, and causes the water potential sensor to measure the water potential when the measured water content does not exceed the switching threshold. (12) A measurement system comprising: a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil water; and a control device including: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to the sensor; and a control unit that controls, using the control signal, a measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and a measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (13) A control method for a sensor comprising: a measurement procedure for measuring a parameter related to soil water; and a control procedure for controlling the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and a measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (14) A control method for a control device comprising: a communication procedure for transmitting a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control procedure for controlling, using the control signal, the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controlling the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value. (15) A sensor comprising: a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement accuracy of the parameter based on predetermined setting information. (16) A control device comprising: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement accuracy of the parameter using the control signal based on predetermined setting information.

[0140] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 110 Weather server 120 Irrigation device 130 External sensor 200 Measurement system 210 User terminal 211 Operation unit 212 Control unit 213 Display unit 214, 221, 311 Communication unit 220 Control device 222 Irrigation and sensor control unit 223, 313 Storage unit 300 Moisture sensor 310 Measurement unit 312 Sensor control unit 320 Measurement unit 321 Transmitting probe 322 Receiving probe 330 Battery 400 Water potential sensor

Claims

1. A sensor comprising: a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

2. The sensor according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit for receiving predetermined setting information.

3. The sensor according to claim 2, wherein the setting information includes the watering timing, and the first measurement period is a period from a timing a predetermined time before the watering timing to the watering timing.

4. The sensor according to claim 2, wherein the setting information includes a predetermined measurement threshold, and the first measurement period is a period from the time when the parameter that does not meet the measurement threshold is measured to the time when the watering occurs.

5. The sensor according to claim 2, wherein the setting information includes information indicating whether the sensor is installed indoors or outdoors.

6. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the measurement frequency within a second measurement period immediately after the watering timing to a value higher than the predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency within a period which does not fall into either the first measurement period or the second measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

7. The sensor according to claim 6, wherein the control unit controls the measurement frequency within a third measurement period immediately after rainfall to a value higher than the predetermined value, and controls the measurement frequency within a period which does not fall within any of the first measurement period, the second measurement period, and the third measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

8. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the parameter is a moisture content.

9. The sensor of claim 1, wherein the parameter is water potential.

10. A control device comprising: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value using the control signal, and controls the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

11. The control device as described in claim 10, wherein the parameters include moisture amount and water potential, the sensors include a moisture sensor that measures the moisture amount and a water potential sensor that measures the water potential, and the control unit causes the moisture sensor to measure a new moisture amount if the measured moisture amount exceeds a predetermined switching threshold, and causes the water potential sensor to measure water potential if the measured moisture amount does not exceed the switching threshold.

12. A measurement system comprising: a sensor for measuring a parameter related to soil moisture; a control device having a communication unit for transmitting a control signal to the sensor; and a control unit for controlling the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value using the control signal, and controlling the measurement frequency prior to the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

13. A method for controlling a sensor comprising: a measurement procedure for measuring a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control procedure for controlling the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value, and controlling the measurement frequency before the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

14. A control method for a control device comprising: a communication procedure for transmitting a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control procedure for controlling the measurement frequency of the parameter within a first measurement period immediately before the timing of watering the soil to a value higher than a predetermined value using the control signal, and controlling the measurement frequency prior to the first measurement period to a value lower than the predetermined value.

15. A sensor comprising: a measurement unit that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement accuracy of the parameter based on predetermined setting information.

16. A control device comprising: a communication unit that transmits a control signal to a sensor that measures a parameter related to soil moisture; and a control unit that controls the measurement accuracy of the parameter using the control signal based on predetermined setting information.

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