Hi Fidelity Genetics worked long and hard on a patented technology that would help the world of AgTech collect and analyze crop root data to help engineer better seed products capable of withstanding a multitude of growing environments. After initial prototypes proved successful, we were selected to help develop the next generation of the design that could be used in broader testing and be taken to manufacturing.
For a next generation concept, we developed a modular "radio head" that housed all of the sensitive electronics and kept them elevated above typical flood levels. Should the interior electronics see damage from the environment, our design can be easily unplugged and replaced with a new unit.
A robust design capable of withstanding a high powered, motorized driver that drives the product into the soil required in-depth thought into material selection and design features that enabled the product to be driven into the ground, evenly and securely, without fracturing or damaging the capacitive touch sensors.
A significant field study to test data collection was needed, so we developed a very durable urethane poured prototype process that would allow the device to be driven into the ground effectively, but also kept all of the sensors in alignment. We actually visited our client's facility in order to train their team on producing 60 of these prototypes.
Throughout the process, our ability to design and iterate the PCBA, develop a custom antenna, and test in house was crucial to the success of the design.
By applying our learnings from the new generation design, we were able to begin working on other iterations for other agricultural environments.
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