INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
density and health , providing plantation managers with invaluable information for strategic planning and economic market predictions .
Some agriculture-centred drones can be designed to plant seeds at sites , especially in difficult-to-reach areas , thus providing a faster and more efficient method than traditional planting techniques .
After severe weather events like storms or flooding , drones can be quickly deployed to carry out damage assessments of the affected crops and infrastructure . The drone data obtained will provide plantation / farm operators with a quick assessment of the damage so that they can respond faster and more effectively to mitigate the situation . Drones can also help document crop damage and losses during ill-timed incidents , providing accurate data for insurance claims . The ability to accurately monitor large agricultural areas quickly and efficiently makes this technology invaluable for precision agriculture management .
Aerial Spraying drones has significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of pesticide and fertiliser applications in the agricultural industry . This unique technology allows for accurate targeted aerial spraying , thus ensuring that only the necessary areas are treated . The beneficial outcomes are the conservation of resources and the reduction of production costs .
The ability of drones to operate in various terrains and conditions provides flexibility and ensures accurate spraying , adhering to the strategically planned crop maintenance programme . Agricultural spraying drones also reduce the unintentional exposure of farm personnel to hazardous chemicals , resulting in improved occupational safety and health .
Based on information obtained from precision aerial mapping or geospatial information , drones can limit spot spraying to just the crown and inner fronds of crops to maximise the efficient use of fertilisers and herbicides . Optimising spraying processes using aerial spraying with drones can improve crop health , increase personnel productivity and contribute to an upsurge in overall yield .
CONCLUSION
Aerial spraying is typically categorised into two categories : Blanket Spraying and Spot Spraying . Blanket Spraying is suitable for flat terrain crops such as paddy ( rice crops ), pineapples and others . Spot Spraying is more suitable for fruit trees or crops on varying terrain such as oil palms . Spot Spraying maximises spraying efficiency as it directs the fertiliser sprays to the crown or top of the trees .
Drones can be effectively used to apply pesticides , herbicides and fertilisers precisely , helping to reduce excessive chemical usage and minimising potential hazardous environmental impacts . Systematic aerial spraying using
The specifications of present-day technology for agriculture-centred drones are improving rapidly , resulting in a sharp reduction in drone ownership costs when compared to the costs of earlier drone models . The logistical and cost advantages of drones include a 99 +% result accuracy , the ability to safely complete the task up to 85 % faster and costing five times less for project implementation with more deliverables when compared to traditional work practices . Other project operational rewards include improved accuracy with outputs of higher resolution images ( 2.6 cm / pixel resolution )— an impressive benefit for more effective top management decision-making . These innovative geo-referenced drone-centred aerial surveys and site monitoring projects can thus be confidently carried out with increased efficiency and productivity at any respective agricultural site worldwide . The present evolution of drone technology towards 5G-powered smart drones will advance this essential industrial sector to worldclass excellence in due course .
24 VOL 99 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2024