The Digital Agricultural Research and Extension Center (DAREC) is proud to highlight the AST EDU BOT, a hands-on educational robotics platform introduced at the University of Missouri’s AST 3225 Sensors and Control for Agricultural Systems course. Developed under the guidance of Dr. Jianfeng Zhou and implemented with lab support from Felix Michael Oguche, PhD student in Biological Engineering, AST EDU BOT exemplifies how innovation can transform agricultural education.

The AST EDU BOT introduces students to smart automation in agriculture through the real-world application of microcontroller programming, sensor integration, and autonomous decision-making. This custom-built robot is equipped with ultrasonic sensors, dual DC motors, a motor driver, and an LCD feedback screen – all controlled through Arduino-based logic.

Students assemble and code their robots, calibrate sensors, and test obstacle-avoidance behaviors on a guided track. Through this process, they learn to apply Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) for motor control, interpret real-time data, and develop logic-based responses to environmental stimuli – critical skills for future AgTech professionals.

 The AST 3225 Sensors and Control for Agricultural Systems course includes other modules: PLC programming, optical seed sensing, wheel speed measurement, grain elevator control, and yield monitor data acquisition, By combining coding, electronics, and sensor feedback, this lab reinforced core concepts and bridged the gap between classroom instruction and real-world AgTech solutions.

DAREC supports this initiative as part of its mission to promote digitally-driven, hands-on agricultural education that prepares the next generation of innovators to lead in the fields of precision agriculture, robotics, and data-driven farming solutions.

AST EDU BOT is more than a robot—it’s a gateway to the future of agricultural systems technology.