Augmented or mixed reality (AR), where reality is overlaid with additional digital information, is now also finding its way into agriculture. Domestic researchers developed software using satellite data and AR technology to analyze fields on the spot using AR glasses. This type of visualization can be used to optimize irrigation, say project leaders Matthias Husinsky from St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences and Francesco Vuolo from University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (Boku) Vienna.
The software has built a bridge between the satellite data and reality in the field: “The direct visualization of data in the field using AR – where real conditions are merged with abstract, digital information – greatly accelerates the process of gaining insight and will be used in the future, “AR glasses will be useful for everyone,” Husinsky explains. This would allow for a better assessment of agricultural problems and challenges.
Many possible applications
For example, the AR prototype can be used to compare one parcel of land with the adjacent one. But specific things such as the amount of irrigation – up to a week in advance – can also be observed, explains Vuolo, who came up with the idea for the research project. This makes work in the field “more efficient and precise than ever before”. There is also a saving of resources, which benefits agriculture on the one hand and the environment on the other, according to Boku’s project manager.
It will take some time before it is ready for the market
It will take about five to 10 years before farmers can use the software – the goal is to be ready for the market, Husinsky says. Using AR should also be profitable for smaller farms, as costs would be significantly lower compared to conventional analysis tools.
To promote further development of the AR prototype, a follow-up project is already planned. AR and drone flights could then be used to monitor plant diseases or reduce the number of accidents in alpine agriculture caused by unsafe soil conditions. The FH project manager also sees potential in documenting data in the field – especially related to climate change, which is leading to changes in agriculture. Use in the construction sector, landscape planning or archeology with georeferenced data is also conceivable.
Source: Krone
I am an experienced and passionate journalist with a strong track record in news website reporting. I specialize in technology coverage, breaking stories on the latest developments and trends from around the world. Working for Today Times Live has given me the opportunity to write thought-provoking pieces that have caught the attention of many readers.
