Short Description of the technology – General

This technology focuses on making organic fertilizer application smarter and more efficient through the integration of real-time data collection, analysis, and precision application systems. The technologies have been developed by AUA in collaboration with ODYC, VERVAET and AUGMENTA.  By combining advanced sensing technologies with variable rate application (VRA) systems and cloud-based data management platforms, farmers can apply the right amount of nutrients exactly where needed, reducing waste and improving soil health. The technology encompasses two complementary approaches:

1. Near-Infrared (NIR) NPK sensors and Variable Rate Application (VRA) systems integrated with data exchange platforms (Vervaet Connect and Farmmaps) for intelligent manure spreading
2. A Smart Controller for Site-Specific Slurry Injection that utilizes prescription maps generated with the use of Augmenta® Field Analyzer for variable organic fertilizer application

Both systems enable farmers to optimize the application of organic fertilizers, maximizing crop benefits while minimizing environmental impact and supporting sustainable farming practices.

1. NIR Sensors, VRA Technology, and Data Exchange Systems

Short Description of the technology

This component focuses on making manure application more precise by combining real-time nutrient data with advanced spreading technology. The system utilizes Near-Infrared (NIR) sensors to analyse manure composition during application, allowing for immediate adjustments through Variable Rate Application (VRA) technology. The integration of Vervaet Connect and Farmmaps data exchange platforms creates a comprehensive ecosystem for planning, executing, and documenting fertilizer applications. This approach ensures that nutrients are applied exactly where needed based on field conditions, crop requirements, and environmental constraints.

Innovative Features

The system offers several innovative features:

• Real-time nutrient sensing: NIR sensors analyse manure composition on-the-go, providing immediate data on NPK content during application
• Dynamic application adjustments: VRA technology automatically modifies application rates based on field conditions and real-time nutrient content analysis
• Seamless data integration: Information flows between the Vervaet Connect system and Farmmaps, enabling comprehensive planning and documentation
• Remote monitoring capabilities: Application data can be viewed and analysed from anywhere, reducing the need for on-site measurements
• Automated compliance tracking: Digital record-keeping simplifies regulatory compliance for nutrient management
• Integration with existing machinery: The system works with Vervaet machines, facilitating adoption without requiring major equipment changes

 

2. Smart Controller for Site-Specific Slurry Injection

Short Description of the technology

The Smart Controller developed by the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA) is designed to precisely manage slurry injection by integrating real-time nutrient estimation with site-specific field data. The system combines a Variable Rate Machine equipped with a slurry tank, sewage pump, and flow meter, all managed via a Raspberry Pi 4 board with integrated GPS capabilities. This setup enables the accurate application of organic fertilizers. Prescription maps had been generated with the use of Augmenta® Field Analyzer.

Augmenta® Field Analyzer, is a tractor-mounted multispectral camera system that collects Red/Infrared high-resolution data at 16 fps over an up to 42-meter (depending on mounting height) field-of-view to compute an NDVI-based Vegetation Index (VI), enabling immediate, site-specific fertilization based on proprietary agronomic algorithm that is self-calibrated. The technology leverages remote sensing and advanced data processing to optimize fertilizer application based on field variability, thereby improving nutrient management, crop yields, and environmental sustainability.

Innovative Features

The Smart Controller incorporates several innovative elements:

• Advanced hardware integration: Utilizes a Raspberry Pi 4 for processing, coupled with GPS and digital flow meter sensors to capture and respond to real-time field conditions
• Precision calibration systems: The technology includes calibration protocols to ensure optimal nutrient delivery, reducing over- or under-application
• GPS-guided application: Uses geospatial data to ensure precise placement of organic fertilizers according to field-specific needs

 

 

Innovative Features of Augmenta® Field Analyzer

 

On a hardware level the Augmenta® Field Analyzer is a proximal sensing system that features:

• Multiple spectrum 4K cameras (Red, Infrared, RedEdge, RGB stereo) providing resolution of 12 pixel/cm
• Embedded NVidia GPU
• Environmental sensors (solar radiation, sun elevation, cloud coverage) and
• Internal GPS sensor.

On a software level, the system utilizes advanced multispectral Computer Vision and Machine Learning (CVML) techniques to enhance the performance of its agronomic algorithms. Key features include:

• Minimal input requirement is required from the end-user (only the maximum rate to be applied),
• The algorithm autonomously adjusts to conditions encountered during each session.
• Embedded sensors coupled with ML to mitigate the impact of light intensity changes (e.g., clouds, sun angle) on gathered data.
• Pattern recognition (e.g., identifying glares on the plant canopy) to exclude irrelevant data from further processing.
• Consistent performance at a fixed rate level when unfavourable visibility conditions (e.g., fog or dusk) are detected.

 

Type of Contribution

These technologies contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture by:

• Reducing nutrient losses: Precise application control minimizes nutrient runoff and leaching into water bodies
• Enhancing nutrient use efficiency: Optimized application ensures nutrients are placed where crops can utilize them most effectively
• Decreasing greenhouse gas emissions: More efficient fertilizer use leads to reduced emissions from both production and application
• Supporting data-driven farming decisions: Integration of digital platforms enables continuous improvement in fertilizer management practices
• Facilitating regulatory compliance: Automated documentation simplifies adherence to environmental regulations

Benefits for farmers, the industry, and the environment

For farmers:

• More precise fertilizer application leads to better crop growth and yield optimization
• Reduced input costs through more efficient use of organic fertilizers
• Simplified documentation and compliance with nutrient management regulations
• Enhanced decision-making capabilities through access to comprehensive field data
• Improved long-term soil health and fertility

For the industry:

• Advancement of precision agriculture technologies that can be adapted to various farming contexts
• Development of integrated solutions that connect field operations with farm management systems
• Creation of scalable models for technology adoption in agricultural settings
• Promotion of technological innovation in farm machinery and digital agriculture tools

For the environment:

• Decreased nutrient runoff leading to improved water quality in surrounding ecosystems
• Reduced risk of eutrophication in water bodies due to better nutrient containment
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions through optimized fertilizer application
• Improved soil health and carbon sequestration potential
• Support for more sustainable agricultural practices that balance productivity with environmental protection