The use of the latest technology - the key to the success of the enterprise
Nowadays, the use of modern technology is one of the most important factors determining the success of companies in the market. The modern economy emphasizes innovative solutions that can reduce production costs, increase efficiency and improve the profitability of businesses. Examples of such technologies include artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cryptocurrencies (e.g. Bitcoin), and unmanned aerial systems, commonly known as drones. These cutting-edge tools, not long ago associated mainly with entertainment, are now gaining recognition as high-tech systems supporting industries such as agriculture, logistics, construction, forestry and many others.
One sector where drones play a key role is precision agriculture. They enable farmers to manage crops more efficiently and better monitor and assess plant health. With their precision measurement capabilities, drones are becoming an indispensable part of modern farms seeking to maximize yields while minimizing environmental impact.
Drones in the field - drone tools in precision agriculture
Unmanned aerial vehicles (BSPs), known as drones, offer a wide range of functions and applications, depending on their equipment and configuration. Three types of cameras are most commonly used in precision agriculture: digital, multispectral and thermal imaging. Each of these sensors has a specific application and enables different types of analysis. Digital cameras are relatively inexpensive and popular - they allow visual monitoring, enabling quick recording of crop condition and visual assessment of the field.
Drones allow farmers to monitor crops in a number of ways. The simplest form of monitoring is taking photos or videos from altitude, which allow visual assessment of the situation in the field. With high-resolution images, it is possible to observe changes in crops, such as uneven plant coverage or color changes indicating plant stress. Greater precision is provided by orthophotos- specialized 2D maps in orthogonal projection, described by GPS coordinates, which require advanced photogrammetric software and a professionally conducted drone raid.
With an orthophoto, it is possible to measure length and area, determine relief, count seedlings and even estimate hunting damage. The creation of an orthophoto, however, is only the first step in the analysis process, making it possible to obtain detailed data on the cultivated area.
Multispectral analysis - advanced support in crop management
In modern precision agriculture, the multispectral camera is becoming increasingly important for higher-level crop analysis. By capturing different beams of light, including near-infrared, the drone's multispectral camera makes it possible to create maps of vegetation indices, such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The NDVI index and other indices allow the assessment of plant health by analyzing the reflection values of different ranges of light from plant surfaces. This is particularly useful for detecting problem areas of crops - plant stress, disease, pest attack or nutrient deficiencies.
Advanced multispectral analysis allows farmers to detect changes that are not yet visible to the naked eye, giving them the opportunity to take quick remedial action. With this technology, zones of variable fertilization can be created and individualized sprays can be applied, reducing fertilizer and crop protection costs while increasing crop productivity.
Thermal imaging in agriculture - monitoring plant stress and drought
Another advanced tool that is gaining popularity on farms is a thermal imaging camera mounted on a drone. Thermal imaging can measure the temperature of plants to assess their response to environmental stresses, such as drought. Thermal imaging drones can help farmers monitor soil moisture status and adjust irrigation, which minimizes the risk of losses due to water shortages. With this technology, farmers can fine-tune treatments according to the needs of the plants, which contributes to better water management and environmental protection.
Environmental and economic benefits of drones in precision agriculture
The use of drones for crop monitoring brings numerous benefits, both economically and environmentally. By being able to precisely monitor and analyze the condition of crops, farmers can reduce the amount of fertilizers and pesticides, which has a positive impact on the environment. Precision farming drones support sustainable development goals, such as reducing the use of water, chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which contributes to the protection of groundwater and the biodiversity of local ecosystems.
Summary - drones as an essential tool in modern agriculture
Unmanned aerial vehicles are becoming an indispensable part of modern precision agriculture, which focuses on optimizing crop processes, increasing productivity and protecting the environment. Depending on the type of sensors and cameras, drones enable a wide range of analysis, from visual monitoring to advanced multispectral and thermal imaging. Each of these tools provides vital information about the condition of crops that helps farmers make informed decisions, reduce costs and minimize environmental impact.
In the future, the role of drones in agriculture is likely to expand, with their use embracing increasingly advanced technologies to support both farmers and the sustainability of the sector as a whole.