Catalogue of Services

The service consists of a photorealistic digital greenhouse environment, built in a game engine.

The greenhouse is configurable to different sizes, light conditions (sun, supplementary lighting) or row spacing. In the greenhouse different crops can be placed to either test AI detection networks or complete robotic systems, as there is a ROS2 integration available. The environment is made in a way that physical properties of the objects have influence on other components or robot interactions.

AI model training

Data augmentation

Provision of datasets for simulation and visualisation

In order to develop digital twins for agriculture, reliable long-term datasets on the agronomy and ecology of fields are crucial. From several long-term experiments and agricultural systems (like the Farm of the Future), datasets of fields are available with registrations of crop operations, crop measurements (e.g., timeseries of vegetation indices), yield, soil, & weather data, and data on key performance indicators. In some cases, other sensor data (tractor data, soil moisture, insect monitoring) are also available. New datasets can be developed based on specific needs.

Provision of datasets for validation of AI algorithms for livestock farming

Thanks to 30 years of data gathering at Agro-innovation Centre De Marke, multiple data sets are available. During these years, data is gathered on individual cow events, barn emissions, yields of specific and typical livestock farm crops, soil samples were taken, and feeding strategies were developed. Due to the systematic approach of De Marke, this data can be easily reused for setting up specific validation of AI algorithms. Additionally, new data can be gathered as requested.

Provision of raw image datasets in field crops

In order to develop AI applications or vision functionalities in robots, one of the first steps is to have high-quality images of crops, weeds, nutrient deficiencies, diseases, or pests available. As the phenotype of plants can really differ between regions and seasons, providing balanced datasets with high-quality images and different illumination could save valuable (development and acquisition) time. The data can be used for annotation purposes or to have a first visual check if an existing trained algorithm works sufficiently.

Test and demonstration of (robotic sensor, implement, algorithm) solutions with end-users

Accessing the end-user in a country takes a lot of time and effort. Wageningen Research - Field Crops has, through its regional experimental farms, access to farmer networks and dealers and can bring you in contact with them. The researchers in our department have a practical approach and know what is needed to implement new technologies in farms, therefore fulfilling a bridge between agronomy, technology, and ecology. By testing and demonstrating your product or service to our farm managers and farmers in the region (for example, farmers in https://www.proeftuinprecisielandbouw.nl), we gather valuable feedback to speed up the development of your prototype.

Market research

Test and experimentation of robotic and AI solutions in field crops

The core business of Wageningen Research - Field Crops is to design and create experimental plots (e.g. at the Farm of the Future) and to collect objective data on crops, weeds, diseases, pests and quality and effectiveness of robotic and AI solutions, in which we provide statistical reliable datasets. Examples of experiments are e.g. testing the accuracy and quality of handsfree harvesting solutions, weeding robots and path following of autonomous implement carriers in field crops. We offer for example the following measurements : -Provide measurements on effectiveness of solutions on control of weeds, pests and diseases (e.g. effectiveness of a weed robot) -Provide timeseries of vegetation indices (drone) -Provide yield measurements (quantity and quality) -Provide plant measurements (emergence, flowering, senescence) -Provide weed countings (including species determination) -Provide sensor data (soil moisture, insect monitoring, etc.) Furthermore we have common agricultural machines and implements available. We can cover different field crops, but we also are specialized in new crop farming systems that are based on agro-ecological principles. Think of strip and mosaic farming. Get in touch to discuss the possibilities for your experiment or test question.

Test, validation, and data collection of robotic and AI systems and components for livestock solutions

Location

Netherlands

Livestock farming

In the setting of the Farms of the Future (De Marke), we can (physically) test and validate robotic and AI solutions that are dedicated to dairy solutions. In this context we are also able to collect appropriate data sets of these tests and validation experiments. Test and validation data will be compared to ground truth data sets.

Desk assessment

Testing of AI-based sensor performance

Our service thoroughly evaluates AI-based sensors by measuring key metrics like accuracy, mean squared error, and other tailored parameters. Testing is conducted in real-world environments where the sensor will be used, with reference data recorded or labelled for analysis. For certain sensors, we also utilise benchmark datasets to validate performance. We assess consistency under identical conditions, adaptability to environmental changes (e.g., light, temperature, or weather), and improvements in accuracy over time. Additionally, we measure power consumption, processing efficiency, and memory usage to ensure optimal resource utilisation. Response time between detection and action is evaluated for real-time applications, while extreme condition testing (e.g., bright light, rainy conditions, compacted soil) ensures robustness in challenging environments. We also verify data security and resilience against adversarial attacks. This comprehensive testing is essential, ensuring sensors meet high standards of precision, reliability, and efficiency. Benchmark datasets, standardised data collections used for validation, provide a reliable baseline for performance comparison. By addressing these aspects, our service ensures your sensor technology is ready for real-world deployment, delivering the performance and adaptability your application demands.

Testing of biomass and yield estimation

Our testing service assesses the accuracy of your system's biomass estimation capabilities. You can opt to evaluate your model virtually using existing datasets, such as satellite or image data, or we can gather new field data with our field sampling equipment specifically for your needs. The main targeted crops of the biomass estimation are grassland as well as clover and alfalfa, but also grain crops are possible. As yield and biomass are highly correlated in grassland, both can be determined with this test. We provide results using metrics like Pearson correlation/R-squared and MSE/MAE to give you a clear picture of your model's performance.

Testing of field navigation

Our service evaluates the navigation accuracy and performance of autonomous systems directly in the field. We conduct comprehensive tests under real-world conditions to ensure that your system navigates precisely and efficiently. This testing is crucial for startups and SMEs developing innovative solutions that require dependable autonomous navigation capabilities.

Testing of spot spraying performance

Our spot spraying test service precisely checks how well your spraying system works under real-world conditions. The innovative approach allows for immediate documentation of the spray distribution without altering the spraying process. After application, we document the spread pattern and analyse this data to assess how effectively and precisely the liquid targets the intended areas. This enables you to fine-tune application techniques and evaluate herbicide effects, ensuring your spraying strategies are both efficient and environmentally conscious.

Testing of the follow-me function of a robot

Our service offers a comprehensive evaluation of your device's ability to detect and track moving objects like people, ensuring it performs reliably in real-world scenarios. Also, safety concerns of such a function can be addressed with our tests. Through field tests, we simulate realistic conditions to test your system under various environmental influences. This practical approach provides precise insights into your device's effectiveness and highlights areas for improvement, making it essential for startups and SMEs in the tech-agricultural sector aiming to refine their innovative solutions.