Field trials conducted in citrus, almond, and olive groves demonstrate how variable-rate application of treatments can save between 43% and 67% in pesticide usage.
The AIs system, developed by Pulverizadores Fede, combines the functionality of a top-notch sprayer equipped with H3O technology and a comprehensive agronomic solution for specialty crops based on image processing and Artificial Intelligence (AI). AIs is a device installed on a tractor that “sees” the state, size, and vigor of crops by capturing high-detail images using 3D cameras with precise temporal resolution.
With real-time image processing, the AIs system enables highly precise treatments. It sends orders to the sprayer to open or close nozzles to adjust spraying application based on the size and phenological state of each tree, maintaining constant pressure while ensuring uniform distribution and deposition.
Recent field trials confirm that the variable-rate application enabled by the AIs system can reduce pesticide use by up to 43% in citrus, 48% in almond, 56% in intensive olive groves, and 67% in extensive olive groves, compared to a properly calibrated state-of-the-art sprayer where all nozzles remain open.
It is important to note that potential savings depend on canopy variability and size, as well as the spacing between trees. In highly uniform canopies with minimal gaps between trees, such as trellised plantations, savings will be lower. However, in canopies with high variability, wide gaps between trees, or even missing trees, savings are significant, often exceeding the reductions recorded in these trials.
About the LIFE-AIs project: technology transfer
The AIs system has received support from the European Union’s LIFE programme to develop the project under the acronym LIFE-AIs (Project 101074540 — LIFE21-ENV-ES-Life-AIs). The consortium includes Fede (project leader), Agerpix as a technological partner, and major specialty crops growers such as Castillo de Canena (olive groves), Dominio Fournier D.O. Ribera de Duero (vineyards) belonging to the González Byass Group, as well as Agroptimum (pistachios). The technology is currently being tested and refined in plantations owned by the consortium members, aiming to expedite the transfer of innovation to the agricultural sector. For more information, visit the official LIFE-AIs website.
Con la contribución del Programa LIFE de la Unión Europea, instrumento de financiación de la UE para el medio ambiente y la acción climática, bajo el acuerdo de subvención Proyecto 101074540 — LIFE21-ENV-ES-Life-AIs.
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