Optimized Data Fusion With Scheduled Rest Periods for Enhanced Smart Agriculture via Blockchain Integration

Abstract

The study introduces an efficient data aggregation technique for smart agriculture by leveraging Blockchain technology and a novel method referred to as the "cluster head sleep schedule." The primary objective is to enhance the data collection process within a large-scale agricultural setting where multiple sensors continually generate vast amounts of data while monitoring and safeguarding crops from pest attacks. The proposed method involves the segmentation of sensors into clusters, each led by a designated cluster head responsible for collecting data from its constituent members deployed in the field to monitor pest attacks and promptly report any issues to the management. To curtail data redundancy, the study employs a fuzzy matrix to group nodes based on high-similarity data. This approach enables the selective suspension of certain nodes while others remain active. The data received from these nodes undergoes analysis using a fuzzy similarity matrix for clustering, ensuring that only unique data is transmitted to the base station. Redundant nodes from all clusters are identified and placed in a sleep mode, thus conserving energy and prolonging the network's lifespan. This sleep scheduling mechanism is implemented subsequent to data redundancy reduction, facilitating immediate pest attack control in agriculture. By implementing these techniques, smart agriculture stands to benefit from optimized energy utilization and reduced costs associated with monitoring and pest control, thereby fostering sustainable and efficient operations. The cluster head is responsible for storing the data on a base station positioned at the network's edge, allowing for local processing and prompt communication of pest attack information to the farmer for immediate action. Moreover, this edge system stores the data on a Blockchain network for future analysis and serves as a guideline for pest attack control in the pesticide industry, thereby enhancing data security and immutability. In addition to these advantages, the research also emphasizes the importance of controlling pest attacks to enhance crop production in the field, ultimately contributing to the country's economic growth. Simulation results affirm that the proposed approach leads to notable cost reductions, decreased energy consumption, improved crop production, precise crop monitoring to prevent pest attacks, and a prolonged network lifespan. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of this approach within the context of smart agriculture and its role in enhancing the monitoring system for smart agriculture and bolstering security through Blockchain technology.