Arable farming

The experimental plots to study machine-soil interaction offer advanced tools to study machine-soil interactions. The MONROE system measures the efficiency of agricultural tires and machines, assessing traction and soil compaction under various conditions, including tire type, pressure, and soil characteristics. It uses constant torque and traction force methods alongside additional measurements of effort, torque, angular velocity, and actual speed. The SoilXplorer tool provides electromagnetic response maps of soil, based on texture and moisture levels.

The experimental plots for alternative weed control consist of a 4-hectare field, with additional areas available. Depending on the experimental needs, the site is equipped with advanced technology for data capture of soil and plants, an electric power supply using an electric generator for the computer units and charging for electric weeding solutions, as well as remote monitoring of crops and the environment via wireless sensors and a field meteorological station.

The Off-road vehicle and robot mobility tracks in Allier (France) feature advanced testing infrastructure developed by INRAE-TSCF-AGROTECHNOPÔLE for mobile machines and vehicles. The facility offers numerous accessories, including obstacles like mannequins and natural or artificial hedges. The cross-shaped track allows testing from various cardinal points and orientations relative to the sun. Additionally, the inclined profiles enable testing of agricultural machinery on different slope gradients.

Located within a network of real-world testing and validation environments, this facility facilitates collaboration between technological SMEs and agricultural experts. It serves as a platform for developing cutting-edge solutions tailored to address specific challenges in the sector. The space supports businesses by bridging the gap with expert advice, specialist training, and networking opportunities, ensuring innovative ideas are rigorously tested and refined.

It excels in soil and crop characterisation through advanced 3D mapping and field scanning techniques. The lab employs a variety of sensors and imaging tools to assess vegetation health and soil conditions, enabling precise measurements of geometric and structural parameters. Key features include remote sensing drones for aerial imaging, precision phytosanitary applicators, and variable-rate sprayers designed to optimise fertiliser and pesticide application.

The lab offers a wide range of analytical services, including tests for soil pH, organic matter, nutrient content (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and water retention capacity. It also provides water analysis for pH, electrical conductivity, nutrients, and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Additionally, the lab performs plant material analysis, such as total nitrogen and dry matter, and organic waste analysis for pH, organic matter, and ammonium content.

Specialised in advanced molecular techniques for plant DNA and protein analysis. The lab provides services such as genomic DNA extraction, PCR-based genotyping, and electrophoresis for DNA and protein separation. It also offers DNA fragment analysis and varietal purity testing, with a focus on cereal crops. The lab is actively involved in biodiversity studies, molecular marker applications, and quality control assessments of seeds and plants, contributing to advancements in plant genomics research and crop improvement.

INRIA has access to a 100 m x 100 m reconfigurable outdoor facility located at AzurArena in Antibes, ideal for conducting experiments involving Autonomous Vehicles (AVs), Autonomous Ground Robots (AGRs), and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The site can be equipped with a 4G/5G communication network, enabling real-time connectivity and coordination across multiple robotic platforms. Its open and adaptable layout makes it suitable for both individual and collaborative autonomous system testing.

NEF is a multidomain scientific experimentation platform at INRIA, designed to support high-performance computation, storage, and visualisation for advanced research applications. It is built on a heterogeneous parallel computing architecture, combining multiple generations of high-performance servers into a cluster-based system. The platform features high-speed network interconnects and large-capacity storage and is directly connected to the Inria Sophia interactive visualisation platform, enabling seamless data processing and graphical analysis.

At INRIA, the private parking facility spans an area of 85 meters by 13 meters and is naturally enclosed by plants and trees, creating a semi-structured, forest-like environment. This makes it an ideal outdoor space for conducting development, testing, and validation experiments with Autonomous Ground Robots (AGRs) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Its dynamic setting bridges the gap between controlled indoor testing and fully unstructured field environments, allowing for safe and effective experimentation under realistic outdoor conditions.