Physical System

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.

This 200 m² hall stores all metrology elements: artificial vine benches (collection and border rows), LiDAR sensors on wheelbarrows, a weather station, and electronic devices for metrology.

The ex situ germplasm collection includes more than 2,000 genotypes (unique genetic profiles), represented by 1-20 accessions per genotype. 

In 2021, an experimental vineyard dedicated to precision agriculture was built within the campus of the Fondazione Edmund Mach at the “Molini” location, which will host innovative research and experimentation activities in the field of digital agriculture in the coming years. 

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.

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.

The lab offers expertise in quality parameter determination and physical-chemical analysis for oils and fats, antioxidant activity testing (ORAC, DPPH, ABTS,...), and analysis of fat profiles and phenolic compounds. It also provides services in the development of analytical techniques in food and advice on the design of sensory tests and consumer sensory evaluation studies.

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.