Adaptability of Lightweight AI Models for Embedded Deployment: A Case Study of an Agricultural Monitoring Robot

Abstract

Many artificial intelligence programs require powerful computing hardware, whereas agricultural robots, drones, and smart cameras rely on small embedded devices with limited computing power, battery capacity, and heat dissipation. Lightweight models reduce parameters and computational costs while maintaining acceptable accuracy, enabling AI deployment on resource-constraint network devices. This paper reviews key lightweighting methods, including compact network architectures, model pruning, model quantization, and knowledge distillation. It compares common platforms such as Jetson, Raspberry Pi, and microcontrollers. Using an agricultural monitoring robot as an example, this study proposes a system combining a camera, a lightweight YOLO model, Jetson, and a microcontroller for real-time crop monitoring. Experiments are designed to evaluate accuracy, speed, power consumption, temperature, and battery life. Rather than pursuing maximum model complexity, this paper focuses on explaining how to select a model that is truly suitable for the actual device. For agricultural robots, effective deployment requires sufficient accuracy, real-time performance, and low energy consumption.