Use of Sensor Data in Honey Storage

Use of Sensor Data in Bale Storage is a continuous monitoring practice that involves placing sensors in various areas of bale storage facilities to protect bales made from straw, hay, or other plant residues against environmental risks such as moisture, temperature, and fire. This approach is an increasingly common technological solution in agricultural production, enabling early detection of fires and preventing quality losses caused by spoilage.

Feed bales used in agricultural and livestock operations are typically stacked in open areas or enclosed storage facilities for extended periods. During this process, if the internal moisture content of the bales remains high, microbial activity generates heat. Without adequate ventilation or control, this heating can eventually lead to a fire risk. Additionally, high moisture causes bales to spoil, mold, and lose nutritional value.

Sensor Technologies Used

Modern bale monitoring systems integrate multiple environmental sensors:

• Moisutre Sensors: Moisture is one of the primary causes of spoilage and fire in bales. Moisture sensors are typically capacitive or resistive in design. These sensors generate data by measuring relative humidity levels within the storage facility, ranging from 0% to 100%, to enable early detection of spoilage and mold formation. Some models also measure temperature in addition to moisture.
• Temperature Sensors: These sensors produce temperature data to prevent heat-related yield loss and mitigate fire risk caused by elevated temperatures. Some temperature sensors also include moisture measurement capability.
• Smoke Sensors: When a fire occurs, flame sensors detect flames using infrared technology, while smoke sensors identify gases produced by combustion to provide information about fire conditions.
• Gas Sensors: These sensors detect gases released during bale spoilage, enabling assessment of the spoilage state. They also help prevent fire risk by identifying the presence of flammable gases in the environment.

Implementation Method

Sensors are installed either at the center of individual bales or at various points within the storage facility. These modular sensors are connected to each other and to a central controller. The central controller, equipped with an AI-assisted microcontroller, analyzes sensor data and alerts the farmer via GSM in case of critical conditions. Internet access through GSM enables the development of applications for real-time data monitoring. Early notification allows farmers to take timely preventive measures and avoid adverse outcomes.

The system can be integrated with a fire suppression system, so that in the event of a fire, not only is the farmer alerted but the suppression system is also activated to bring the fire under control. Additionally, integration with a ventilation system can maintain consistent moisture levels over time.

Integration with Physical Measures

Sensor systems deliver more effective results when combined with physical protection methods. For example:

• Waterproof tarps and flame-retardant covers protect bales from external factors.
• Well-ventilated storage facilities prevent internal moisture accumulation.
• Regular data monitoring enables manual inspections in areas identified by sensors as high-risk.

Impact on Product Quality

Sensor-assisted monitoring systems offer significant advantages not only for safety but also for product quality:

• Nutritional value is preserved: Bales damaged by excessive moisture are detected early.
• Traceability is ensured: The storage conditions of each bale can be recorded.
• Commercial value increases: High-quality, undamaged bales have greater marketability.

Sustainability and Future Perspective

Sensor-assisted monitoring systems are regarded as part of the digital transformation of modern agriculture. Designed with low cost and modular architecture, these systems can be deployed across a wide range of operations, from small-scale producers to large agricultural enterprises. Thanks to advancing technologies, not only real-time alerts but also long-term storage strategies can be data-optimized. This enhances both the conservation of natural resources and the improvement of agricultural productivity.