The stake contains three primary subsystems: a water distribution edge with calibrated drip outlets, a sensor array that measures soil conditions, and an embedded microchip that handles local processing and wireless communication. All components will be assembled manually in a controlled factory environment to ensure correct fit, seal integrity, and quality of electrical connections. Final assembly steps include installing the drip manifold, seating the sensor probes, attaching the microcontroller and power source, and sealing the unit for weather resistance. Each stake is tested for drip rate consistency and sensor functionality before packaging.

When deployed in soil, the stake releases water slowly from evenly spaced edges, creating a ring of moisture that encourages lateral root uptake and reduces surface runoff. The sensor array continuously samples soil parameters such as moisture level, temperature, and electrical conductivity. Sensor readings are collected by the embedded microchip, which performs initial validation and simple preprocessing such as averaging and outlier rejection. Processed readings are queued for transmission and handed off to the cellular modem component inside the microchip module.

Data from the stake is transmitted via cellular connectivity to the cloud and then routed to the user’s mobile app. The app displays historical trends, current soil status, and notification alerts when predefined thresholds are crossed. Users can configure irrigation priorities, set notification preferences, and view battery and connectivity status for each stake. Secure device pairing and over-the-air configuration updates enable the system to receive firmware improvements and calibration updates without needing physical access to the stake.