Reconfigurable

Test and validation of autonomous navigation and mapping solutions for UGVs, by quantification of the system performance metrics through comparison with millimeter accuracy ground truth data for an agricultural field with rough terrains.

The facility includes a mechanical workshop, an extensive range of robot platforms and hardware (e.g., sensors) and a 200 m³ motion capture volume. A close collaboration with Università degli Studi di Milano allows AIRLab to test robot systems for agricultural applications in fields, orchards and greenhouses.

The cluster comprises 4 servers with 24 GPUs overall and a NAS. It is installed in a climate-controlled server room; power is distributed via industrial UPS units.

ILVO's Spray Tech Lab is one of the few accredited spray technology laboratories in the world specialising in the characterisation of sprayers and nozzles. In addition to accredited testing, the laboratory has the experimental facilities to develop spray application systems and evaluate them under field or laboratory conditions. Current research priorities include greenhouse and open field spray applications, spray drift, nozzle characterisation, orchard spray applications, and biological crop protection applications.

The ILVO Hyperspectral Technology Facility enables advanced applications in agri-food processing, such as quality control, defect detection, grading, and sorting of (raw) products. By comparing spectral and spatial data to reference measurements, we build chemometric models capable of estimating product parameters in real time. The facility hosts a range of hyperspectral and multispectral devices, including spectrometers with customisable probes, hyperspectral cameras, and FTNIRS systems suited for both solid and liquid samples.

ILVO’s fertiliser spreader calibration lab offers services to farmers, fertiliser spreader manufacturers, and fertiliser-producing companies. Two different approaches are used for assessing the performance of centrifugal and pendulum fertiliser spreaders for specific types of fertilisers: collection trays equipped with anti-reflection grids are used for determining spread patterns in field conditions.

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.

Located in Torrelameu, Spain, this farm is equipped with a wide range of precision feeding machines, environmental sensors, and camera systems to monitor and optimise various aspects of pig farming. These tools enable comprehensive data collection on temperature, humidity, CO₂, and ammonia levels, which are integrated into a proof of concept for the pig sector data space. The facility fosters collaboration among public and private entities, promoting advancements in intensive livestock management, animal welfare, and transport.

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.