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IoTIntermediateAges 18+A weekend

Smart Farm Tool Tracker with Bluetooth Mesh and ESP32

Published July 3, 2026

This project helps small-scale farmers keep track of frequently used tools across their property, reducing lost time searching. By attaching small, low-power tags to tools and deploying a network of ESP32 devices, the system shows the approximate last-seen location of each tool. The example application could be a small family farm near Machakos that often misplaces hoes or shovels across diverse fields.

What you'll need

  • ESP32-WROOM-32 Development Board (x3)
  • Small Bluetooth LE beacon modules (e.g., nRF51822 based) (x5)
  • Micro USB cables (for ESP32 power) (x3)
  • Breadboards (x3)
  • Jumper wires
  • Power bank or 5V power supply (x3)
  • Plastic enclosures (weatherproof, x3)

Step-by-step

  1. 01

    Prepare ESP32 Mesh Nodes

    Flash each ESP32 board with the Arduino IDE, installing 'esp-idf-mesh' library. Upload a basic Bluetooth mesh node sketch (available in examples) that scans for Bluetooth LE advertisements and relays data. Ensure each ESP32 is configured with a unique node ID within the mesh.

  2. 02

    Configure Bluetooth LE Beacons

    Power on each small Bluetooth LE beacon. Most come pre-programmed to broadcast a UUID, major, and minor ID. Ensure each beacon has a unique identifier set. If programmable, assign specific IDs corresponding to tool types (e.g., 'hoe', 'shovel', 'rake').

  3. 03

    Deploy Mesh Network

    Strategically place the three ESP32 nodes around your farm or workshop. For example, one at the main shed, one near the irrigation pump, and one closer to the main cultivation area. Power them via power banks or direct USB adapters. Each node will act as a scanner and mesh repeater.

  4. 04

    Develop Central Monitoring App

    Create a simple web interface (using Python Flask or Node.js) on a local computer. This app will receive data from one 'gateway' ESP32 in the mesh (e.g., the one closest to your office), parse the beacon IDs and their last-seen ESP32 node. Display this information on a map-like interface showing approximate tool locations.

  5. 05

    Attach Beacons to Tools

    Securely attach the Bluetooth LE beacons to your tools using zip ties, strong adhesive, or small custom mounts. Test each beacon's range by walking around with the tool and observing detection on your monitoring app.

Tips

  • Consider using solar panels for outdoor ESP32 nodes to extend battery life.
  • Experiment with different Bluetooth LE beacon broadcast intervals to balance battery life and update frequency.
  • For larger farms, you might need more ESP32 mesh nodes to ensure adequate coverage.
#bluetooth-mesh#esp32#iot#asset-tracking#farm-tech
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