What started as a simple idea to support Thailand 4.0 has evolved into an AgTech startup that is now ready to test its first IoT-AWD (Alternate Wetting and Drying) device in the fields of Thailand. This new device has the potential to transform the lives of thousands of smallholder farmers, particularly in the rural areas of Isan, where traditional farming methods are still widely practiced.
Vision and Motivation
KhawTECH was launched in late 2021 with a clear mission: to create affordable, practical technology that can actually help smallholder farmers in Thailand. AgTech products can only be used and abused by large corporations, as the price of technology is too high. But this is nonsensical, as most of the world’s farms are small, family-run operations. Instead of helping these smaller farmers, the industry often exacerbates their struggles by favoring the wealthiest, leaving the smaller farms with dwindling profits and livelihoods. I believe technology should first serve those who need it the most.
The initial focus was on water management, an area where even slight improvements could lead to significant gains in productivity and sustainability. This vision was deeply aligned with the goals of Thailand 4.0, a national strategy to promote technological innovation in various sectors, including agriculture.
Prototyping and Development
In June 2022, with help from people who know the field very well, we began the research and development of our own IoT-AWD prototype. Nothing in the market was good enough, affordable enough.
The first prototype was ready by July 2022, utilizing an ESP32 board and an ultrasonic sensor for water level detection. This initial version was a proof of concept, demonstrating that we could indeed monitor water levels accurately. However, it also revealed challenges, particularly in the areas of cost, durability and maintainability. As one would expect, it turns out it’s very hard to get a sensor replaced in a deep, rural environment.
Iteration and Optimization
By December 2022, we had developed a second prototype, this time incorporating capacitive soil humidity sensors in an attempt to reduce environmental errors in the readings. While this version offered some improvements, it became clear that cost and complexity remained a barrier for the very farmers we aimed to help. We needed a solution that was not only effective but also affordable and easy to service by locals.
This led to a period of intense iteration and optimization. Testing could only be done during the rice planting season, so each iteration required a wait of 3~4 months. Well, I’m a patient person.
Our goal was to reduce the cost of the device without compromising its functionality. We achieved this by rethinking the design and using readily available components in the rural areas we operated in, such as PVC pipes, standard wiring and generally-available components in local DIY/Home Improvement stores.
The result was our third prototype, which utilized a new LoRa-powered ESP32 board and simple probes for water level detection. Also, using LoRa removed the need for data plans and expensive electronics.
Cost, Durability, and Usability Challenges
This third prototype convinced me that we were on the right track. The price per unit was reduced to a very acceptable level, and it was designed to be reusable season after season. Also, we used components so common that any local handyman would be able to service it, ensuring there’s no ‘vendor lock-in’ with us. This device offers very little profit margin, but my goal was never to make money at the expense of humble families.
One of the biggest technical challenges we faced using such common components was electrolysis, as they weren’t designed for that purpose and was rapidly damaging the materials. To address this, I redesigned the circuit and the software running in the devices to minimize exposure to currents. Instead of running current continuously, we limited it to just a few milliseconds per hour per probe, totaling about 10 minutes per year. This approach not only virtually eliminated the electrolysis issue but also significantly reduced electricity consumption, enabling the device to operate on a single battery with a small solar panel.
Why Cost and Simplicity Matter
In my conversations with farmers, I realized how crucial it was to keep the device as affordable and user-friendly as possible. Many of the farmers we aim to help are older and not particularly tech-savvy. Convincing them to digitalize their operations is challenging, as they are often hesitant to adopt new technologies. This is why we decided to focus on the younger generations, who are generally more open-minded and willing to embrace innovation. By lowering the barriers to entry, we hope to make this transition easier for everyone involved.
Finally, we must consider the nature of farming on a global scale. As I already mentioned above, most of the world’s farms are small and family-run, making this demographic the most significant market for agricultural technology, but also the most price-sensitive, which is why keeping the cost of our solution as low as possible was a top priority. We wanted to create a device that even the smallest farmers could afford without compromising on quality and reliability.
Now? Real-World Testing
Soon, in late 2024, KhawTECH will be ready to deploy the first real-world version of this device. We are starting in the Isan region, with local farmers from Yasothon participating in the testing phase. For farmers with fields of around 1 ha requiring three devices, the initial investment is about 1~2% of a typical pre-AWD season profit. Yet, this investment can lead to a 1/3 reduction in water usage (and the diesel associated with running the pumps) and a significant 10% potential yield increase.
A Game-Changer for Small, Rural Communities
In my opinion, this IoT-AWD device we’ve developed is a game-changer, especially for smallholder farmers in poor rural areas. It’s affordable, effective, and delivers tangible benefits within the first season. It can also inspire younger generations to embrace technology, giving them a reason to stay in their hometowns rather than leaving
As we begin testing in the fields of Thailand, I am more optimistic than ever that KhawTECH will play a crucial role in improving the lives of smallholder farmers, helping them achieve better yields with less water.
Once again, it’s not about the money; it’s about using technology to make a positive impact on both people and the environment.