Agras T40: Revolutionizing Agricultural Safety with Advanced Radar and Vision Systems

Agriculture has embraced the technological age wholeheartedly, with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) soaring above fields to simplify and optimize farm management. But innovation doesn’t pause at convenience—it prioritizes safety. DJI’s latest marvel, the Agras T40, embodies this fact, marrying powerful aerial capabilities with unparalleled safety systems. In this article, we will explore the safety features of DJI’s AGRAS T40, the cutting-edge agricultural drone that is changing the landscape with its pioneering radar technology and binocular vision system. Importance of Safety for Agricultural Drones Utilizing drones in arduous agricultural settings is not without hazards. Orchards and hilly terrains pose complex challenges that call for precision and unwavering safety protocols. Traditional UAVs may balk at such tasks, but the Agras T40 rises to the occasion, ensuring safe, reliable operations even in the most intricate environments. What is Active Phased Array Radar? Active Phased Array Radar represents the forefront of radar technology. Its high accuracy, flexible beam pointing ability, and strong anti-jamming capacity make it a staple in sophisticated systems. DJI’s innovative use of Active Phased Array Radar in the Agras T40 marks a significant step forward for ag drones. Here’s how this cutting-edge technology elevates the T40: Full Airspace Scan in 0.1 Seconds: The rapidity of the phased array radar allows for a comprehensive sweep of the surroundings, minimizing response time to potential dangers. High-Precision Detection: Boasting an astounding detection accuracy that locates objects up to 20 meters away within 0.5 mm, the Agras T40 ensures meticulous obstacle navigation. Dynamic Beam Adjustment: The radar’s beam can be deftly focused and redirected, markedly enhancing the detection of diminutive but critical targets. The versatility and precise beam pointing, coupled with its anti-jamming prowess, mark the active phased array radar as integral to the T40’s superior safety function. Wide Beam vs Narrow Beam Binocular Vision System: The Art of Three-Dimensional Avoidance Complementing the sophistication of radar technology, the Agras T40 employs a Binocular Vision System for robust three-dimensional perception and obstacle avoidance. This vision system bolsters the drone’s ability to: Create comprehensive 3D spatial point clouds, allowing for graceful navigation around multiple obstructions. Perform semantic recognition, which empowers the Agras T40 to interpret and react to varied environmental elements effectively. Maximizing Detection Accuracy with Adjustable Detection Direction In a complex operating environment, radar’s detection direction is crucial. For example, when imitating ground flight, the radar must analyze the terrain information, while in level flight, it must detect obstacles along its path. However, an excess of terrain information can easily lead to interference. Imagine replacing the scattered light with a focused torch. It would expel the same amount of energy but would allow for easy visibility in a designated area due to its focus. Now, suppose this torch also had an adjustable angle feature. It could promptly illuminate any desired area, enhancing its precision. When operating over elevation changes, the radar focuses on the radar focuses on the slopes below. When operating over normal terrain, the radar focuses ahead. Combining Radar and Vision For Improved Safety For the AGRAS T40’s radar system to achieve such pinpoint precision, DJI’s engineers have innovatively combined the radar and binocular vision. This teaming establishes a comprehensive 3D spatial point cloud model, which helps the T40 navigate smoothly through challenging terrains, such as undulating orchards and hilly landscapes, without requiring manual aerial surveys. Radar wave direction is adjustable Making Safety Accessible in Agriculture DJI has not only innovated but also made these advancements accessible. The mass-production and systemic integration of these technologies underscore DJI’s commitment to providing sophisticated yet practical tools to the agricultural community. The Agras T40 features a meticulously designed system that includes: Multiple transceiver RF antenna assemblies. An advanced digital processing unit. An integrated rotary servo platform. A streamlined wireless power supply and communication module. These components are not just piecemeal; they work in concert to deliver a seamless operational experience. Conclusion: Embracing the Enhanced Security of the Agras T40 The AGRAS T40 is not just designed as a tool but as a reliable partner in modern agriculture. Its state-of-the-art safety features, including Active Phased Array Radar and binocular vision systems, ensure peace of mind for precision farming enthusiasts and agricultural innovators. The device’s rugged durability, powerful spray, and spread capacities further underscore its role as an essential asset in the drive towards sustainable farming methods. Are you ready to redefine the safety standards on your farm? Dive deeper into the world of the Agras T40 and see how DJI’s advanced radar and vision systems can transform your agricultural pursuits.

Agras T40: Unveiling Precision Mapping Capabilities for Safer, Faster Operations

The agricultural landscape is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by innovative technology and the need for sustainability and efficiency. In this sphere of constant advancement, the Agras T40 emerges as a game-changer, epitomizing the fusion of aerial crop protection and mapping. This article peels back the layers of this high-tech marvel, spotlighting the T40’s exceptional mapping capabilities that offer safer and more streamlined operations for agricultural technologists and precision farming innovators. From Cumbersome to Cutting-Edge There was a time when field mapping and spray planning were arduous tasks, limited by the precision and efficiency of available tools. comprehensive field data collection meant boots on the ground and countless hours of manual labor. Even with the advent of drone technology, you needed a separate mapping drone and software to create accurate maps of your farm. Fast-forward to now, drone technology like the Agras T40 simplifies these processes and improvements in how terrain data and crop health information are acquired and utilized. Agras T40: Technology Refined The T40 has several features that make mapping and operation planning far more streamlined than ever before. Featuring a high-definition First Person View (FPV) camera and DJI RC Plus, the Agras T40 paves the way for unprecedented control and clarity in local field mapping operations. High-Definition FPV Camera The T40 has a high-definition FPV gimbal camera that can capture the fine details of landscapes with clarity. More than just an aerial photography tool, it turns these images into detailed maps. It meticulously records the terrain, making it a useful tool for thorough aerial inspections and flight safety measures. With 12 megapixels on an adjustable gimbal, it can map with high accuracy from 30-meter altitudes. Features such as ditches, woods, and plot boundaries can be easily perceived. Durable Protected Gimbal Camera Beyond its aerial photography prowess, the T40’s FPV camera boasts an impressive IPX6K rating. Our DJI structural engineers have meticulously positioned the gimbal camera’s structural components, amplifying sealed protection. Enhanced with an oil seal structure, the motor shaft ensures that the gimbal rotation is seamless, effectively resisting potential lens erosion from pesticides and fertilizers. This meticulous design guarantees that your shots remain crystal clear. Local Mapping, No Internet Required The T40’s standout feature really delivers on its promise: creating local maps without requiring an internet connection. This ability is indispensable to remote areas where reliable internet connectivity is more the exception than the norm. High-quality mapping is now achievable for you anywhere, anytime.   Previously, for extensive fields and orchards, aerial mapping required not only a specialized drone and a top-notch computer but also unfaltering network connectivity. Frequent network disruptions in agricultural settings, however, often impeded the steady transmission of images. But with the pressing need for map reconstruction and route planning in expansive field and orchard contexts, the T40 provides a novel solution. No need for a network connection. Local Mapping just became a whole lot easier and more accessible. DJI RC Plus Performance Remote Controller The DJI RC Plus, a high-performance remote control, is where all the mapping processing happens. Equipped with a new-generation 8-core processor and a 7-inch high-bright screen, the T40 model transforms the captured images into comprehensive maps. Its smooth operation is backed by an in-depth optimized map-building algorithm engine that is capable of realizing a 2D reconstruction of 100 acres of farmland, a task typically handled by high-performance workstations. It also generates real-time 2D orthophotos with semantic information. This technological sophistication, combined with a human touch, makes the DJI RC Plus not only easy to operate but also an invaluable tool for on-the-spot insights and immediate adjustments. All these features make the DJI RC Plus a seamless bridge connecting technology with the user, providing them with the power of local mapping at their fingertips. Conclusion The Agras T40 is a towering example of how technology can reshape an industry – a beacon of innovation in precision agriculture. With its multifaceted mapping capabilities underpinned by an unparalleled set of features, the T40 distinctively caters to the modern-day needs of agricultural operations. For those striving for safer, smarter, and more efficient work, the Agras T40 doesn’t just rise to the occasion—it sets a new standard.

Agras T40: The Future of Spraying Technology

As a farmer, one of the most important aspects of crop cultivation is pest control. Thus, it is essential to have the best equipment that can efficiently and effectively perform this task. One such tool that has revolutionized the agricultural spraying industry is the Agras T40. With its superior spraying technology, the T40 guarantees optimal pesticide, fungicide, or herbicide use, thereby improving crop yields. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Agras T40’s spraying technology and what makes it stand out in the market. Dual Atomizing Spraying System As the use of automated aerial applications in agriculture expands, so does the demand for greater flow rates and diversified application scenarios such as powdering. Different crops, pests, and diseases necessitate different agent types and droplet sizes. We designed the spray system to address these multi-faceted requirements. The Agras T40’s dual atomizing spray system is a standout feature, providing a robust flow rate of 12 liters/minute and an impressive spraying width of 11 meters. This system ensures an even application, thereby reducing waste and enhancing pesticide performance. The centrifugal spray sprinkler further refines the process, creating uniform droplet sizes which improve pesticide utilization rates. Centrifugal Sprinklers vs. Traditional Sprinkler Nozzles But, what exactly is the difference between traditional sprinkler nozzles and centrifugal sprinklers? Traditional centrifugal spraying systems often suffer from issues including inconsistent mist droplet sizes, leakage, quick corrosion, and short lifespan. However, the Agras T40/T20P is designed to overcome these issues. It features a magnetically driven impeller pump that isolates the motor from the liquid, enhancing corrosion resistance and durability. Its dual atomizing centrifugal sprinklers ensures uniform droplet size, improving pesticide utilization. Powerful Magnetic Drive Impeller Pumps Moreover, the Agras T40 features a new magnetic drive impeller pump, which stands out from the rest. The T40 carved a niche for itself by boasting a large flow rate that doesn’t obstruct even in challenging environments. What’s more, the impeller pump is fearless against corrosion, making it durable in the long run compared to other types of pumps. Exceptional Flow Rate and Penetration The impeller pump of the Agras T40 distinguishes itself with a powerful flow rate of up to 6L/min with a single pump and 12L/min with double pumps. When spraying, the drone creates a strong wind field capable of deeply penetrating fruit tree canopies, thereby ensuring thorough coverage of all leaves with the treatment. Optimized Design for Unobstructed Flow and Simple Maintenance The design of the pump has been carefully optimized to reduce maintenance needs and prevent corrosion. Its smooth flow channel minimizes the likelihood of powder clogging, while the dual impellers offer a stirring effect to prevent powder sedimentation. Moreover, the pump features a quick-release snap design for easy, tool-free maintenance and cleaning. Corrosion-Resistant and Durable The magnetic drive impeller pump uses permanent magnetic transmission technology, which drives the pump with magnetic force. This contact-free power transmission ensures complete isolation between the liquid chamber and the power chamber, effectively eliminating issues of leakage and corrosion. Furthermore, this durable pump can be easily disassembled by hand for convenient cleaning. Uniform Adjustable Droplet Sizes The Agras T40/T20P’s centrifugal sprinklers embrace an innovative double disc breaking design, refining the droplet dispersal, and creating a more uniform droplet size. This inventive method mitigates the risk of larger droplets causing damage to fruits and other crops, thereby enhancing the efficiency of pesticide application. The design also allows for an impressive degree of adaptability, with droplet sizes that can be adjusted from 50 to 300 microns. This flexibility enables the system to react effectively to the unique particle size requirements of different crops. Efficient Weight Sensing System The Agras T40 comes with a weighing sensor that offers real-time tracking of the remaining pesticide volume. This feature eliminates issues related to float sticking, thereby enabling accurate prediction of when it’s time to refill. This feature ensures that farmers have full control over pesticide application, allowing optimal use of their resources. Conclusion In conclusion, the Agras T40 is a game-changer in the spraying industry, providing farmers with unrivaled capabilities to fight pests while using pesticides effectively and efficiently. With a new magnetic drive impeller pump, the industry’s first centrifugal valve, and a weighing sensor, it is clear why the T40 is the equipment of choice for modern-day farmers.

T40/T20P Firmware Upgrade is Here

New features that bring your T40 and T20P to new levels of efficiency The latest firmware upgrade for the Agras T40 and T20P enhances operational efficiency and safety with new features. “Stream Mode” offers targeted liquid distribution ideal for rice field weed control, while “Idle Propeller Stop” and manual override during automatic landings enhance safety. Improved flight smoothness over tall crops, more accurate material spreading, and fixes for abnormal flight route heights are also included. Explore these upgrades to improve your agricultural operations. Introducing “Stream Mode” for special operation scenarios Stream Mode deactivates the motors of the centrifugal sprinklers, so instead of atomizing your liquid chemical, it will instead directly dump in a columnar stream. This is perfect for scenarios that do not require atomization, or those that only need to distribute liquid onto water surfaces, such as enclosed weed control operations in rice fields. How to activate: In the operation interface, in the top right corner settings, find the spraying system settings, and turn off sprinkler atomization to activate. Idle Propeller Stop to automatically stop propellers when grounded In the following two scenarios, if the aircraft is on the ground and the propellers are idling for more than 10 seconds, they will automatically stop.   After manually unlocking and not taking off; After manually landing and not stopping the propellers; Manual takeover supported during automatic landing After the firmware upgrade, when the aircraft is performing and automatic landing, if the user identifies any safety risks with the landing, they can manually override (by moving the control stick in any direction) to cancel the automatic landing and take over control. This helps increase landing safety. Improved tracking accuracy for smoother flight over tall crops When users are using automatic flight routes for tall crops such as corn, bananas, cane, etc., selecting “Hill” in under Task Terrain and activating “Auto Terrain Following” can effectively improve the aircraft’s terrain-following operation accuracy, enhancing flight smoothness. More accurate material spreading for better operation results The new firmware optimizes the calculation logic for material spreading amounts, displaying more accurate material usage amounts, and achieving better operation results. Fixed an issue with abnormal starting point height on Orchard Flight Routes The new firmware fixes the issue where the aircraft, when executing 3D Orchard Flight Routes imported from DJI SmartFarm, would encounter abnormal starting point heights. This upgrade version information Aircraft Firmware: 01.03.10.05 Remote Controller Firmware: 04.01.1000

Agras T50 and T25: Next-Level Energy Savings with Intelligent Battery Design

Agriculture technology is making colossal strides in efficiency and sustainability, with innovations like the Agras T50 and T25 leading the charge – quite literally. These aerial application tools aren’t just revolutionizing crop care; they’re redefining the power dynamics of aerial crop protection through their optimized batteries and charging systems. This article will explain what optimizations the Agras T50 and T25 have in terms of their batteries and charging systems that make them safer, more convenient, and economical.   Drone Agras T25 Agras T50 Battery DB800 Intelligent Flight Battery DB1560 Intelligent Flight Battery Charger C8000 Intelligent Charger C10000 Intelligent Charger Generator D6000i Multifunctional Inverter Generator D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator Reduced Cost of Charging Every farmer knows that input costs dictate their profit margins, and energy costs can be a significant overhead. Enter the Agras T50 and T25’s energy-efficient charging technology, like the D12000iEP D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator. By optimizing energy consumption, each charge can translate to considerable dollar savings, effectively changing the economic landscape for tech-savvy farmers and AgTech innovators alike.   The D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator, equipped with a built-in EFI system, precisely controls fuel injection levels. Integrated with a generator start/stop function, it offers a more economical solution compared to traditional generators. In fact, it can cut your charging expenses by up to 20%, saving you $0.21 USD for every battery charged.   Charger D12000iEP 3rd Party Generator + C10000 Gasoline used 10 L (~2.64 gal) 10 L (~2.64 gal) Number of batteries recharged (from 20 to 95%) 13.37 batteries 10.67 batteries Cost of oil (In the US, data from January 2024) $0.90 USD per L $0.90 USD per L Single Battery Charging Cost 10 ÷ 13.37 × 0.90 = $0.67 10 ÷ 10.67 × 0.90 = $0.84 Savings per battery charge: $0.17 Two Batteries on a Charging Cycle for Continuous Operations Time is of the essence in agriculture, and downtime can mean lost opportunity. The dual-battery setup on the T50 allows for one battery to be charged while the other is in use, cycling efficiency and keeping your operations flowing seamlessly. Let’s discuss the technology in the T50 and T25 batteries that enables cycling for continuous operations.   Rapid charging rate The Agras T50 and T25 drones feature an advanced battery design that supports a rapid charging rate, minimizing the charging intervals and increasing efficiency in the field. The batteries have been engineered to accommodate a fast charge, which significantly cuts down the time required to get them airborne again. Especially when paired with the D12000iEP D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator, which has a dominant power output of 9000W, or the DJI C10000 Intelligent Charger, you’re guaranteeing maximum charging potential for your battery. With a rapid charging system, the battery you’re charging is ready to deploy as soon as the drone returns for a tank refill, thus maximizing productivity and operational continuity for farmers.   Omnidirectional Heat Dissipation for the Batteries Efficient heat dissipation is crucial for effective charging, and this is precisely what the DJI T50/T25 batteries deliver. Thanks to their innovative omnidirectional heat transfer pathways, these batteries are capable of rapidly dispersing heat from multiple directions. This key feature not only accelerates the rate of heat dissipation but also ensures a consistent temperature throughout the battery, eliminating the risk of localized overheating. The result is a stable, high-energy charge in an impressively quick 9 minutes.   Please note, however, that these results have been obtained from DJI’s agricultural laboratory through simulated operations. In environments where temperatures exceed 35°C, two consecutive power cycles may not be achievable.   Battery Safety and Reliability Upgrades Safety is paramount, especially when it comes to high-tech gear in agriculture. To enhance durability and safety under extreme working conditions, the core components of the T50 and T25 batteries are thoroughly encased, providing the following benefits:   Reinforces the stability of the electronic components, boosting their resistance to external impacts and vibrations. Enhances the insulation between internal components and connections, promoting device downsizing and weight reduction. Shields components and connections from direct exposure, enhancing the waterproof, dustproof, and moisture resistance of the components.   DB800 Intelligent Flight Battery for the Agras T25   Intelligent Battery Management System Proper management and tracking of your batteries will not only improve safety, but also increase their operational lifespan. The T50 and T25 has an intelligent battery management system that monitors the status of the battery cells round the clock to prevent any damage due to temperature, current, or voltage exceeding the normal operating range, thus avoiding other undesirable conditions. Moreover, this state-of-the-art battery management set-up has a full-circuit, short-circuit protection design. This ensures the battery is effectively safeguarded against any short-circuits even under the most extreme working conditions. This isn’t just about longer flight times; it’s about smarter energy use that aligns with safer operations and impactful environmental conservation.   Hundreds of Harsh Tests Rigor is at the heart of reliability. The energy-saving batteries of the Agras T50 and T25 have been put through hundreds of tests, simulated to mimic the harshest of real-world conditions. These tests examine its waterproof, dustproof, anti-corrosion characteristics, and resilience to extreme temperatures and extended use. While our professional testing is comprehensive, we strongly advise against attempting to replicate these tests. As part of preserving the safety and integrity of your equipment, avoid rinsing the battery directly with a hose. If the battery accidentally becomes immersed in water, please seek assistance from your local agent for a thorough inspection.   Improved Battery Life and Discharge Depth Longevity meets capability with the Agras T50 and T25 batteries’ improved life and deeper discharge depths. The chemistry and design behind these batteries mean that charges go further, lasting longer, and providing greater value over their lifetime. This includes an improved battery algorithm, incorporating an active learning and correction mechanism. This enhancement improves the precision of battery life predictions, subsequently extending the battery’s discharge depth by 5%. Additionally, the T50 and T25 are equipped with a sophisticated spraying breakpoint algorithm, allowing it to perform an…

DJI Agras T50 and T25 Expand Aerial Crop Protection Capabilities

New DJI Agricultural Drones Launch Globally with Upgraded SmartFarm App April 25, 2024 – DJI, the world leader in civilian drones and creative camera technology, today announced the international launch of the Agras T50 and Agras T25 drones. Building on the popular Agras drone line, the T50 offers unmatched efficiency for larger-scale growing operations, while the lightweight T25 is designed to be more portable for smaller fields. Both drones are compatible with the upgraded SmartFarm app which offers powerful features for comprehensive aerial application management.  “As a global leader in agriculture technology, we aim to push precision agriculture forward with the latest DJI Agras drones for spraying and spreading. To date, over 980 million acres worldwide across over 100 countries and regions have been treated by DJI Agriculture drones,” said Yuan Zhang, Head of Global Sales at DJI Agriculture. “With our proven solutions for crop protection, family farmers and large-scale growers can improve yields, reduce chemical usage, and cut costs, while minimizing environmental impact.” Better Growth with the Agras T50 The Agras T50 is a flagship of efficiency and stability, born from a deep understanding of the demands of large-scale farming. It inherits a coaxial dual-rotor design and 54-inch propellers for next-level stability when carrying 40kg spraying or 50kg spreading payloads, which enables efficient spraying of up to 50 acres (21 hectares) per hour1. T50’s dual atomization spraying system, with an increased flow rate of up to 16 liters per minute with two sprinklers and adjustable-sized spray droplets, is ideal for a variety of applications from fields to orchards. Easily converted to its spreading configuration, the T50 can carry 50 kg of dry granules and spread at a flow rate of up to 108 kg/min2 or 1.5 tonnes per hour2. This combination of power, precision, and versatility sets T50 apart as a top choice in agricultural drones, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern farming. Breakthroughs in Connectivity and Stability T50 features an upgraded four-antenna O3 Transmission system, extending the remote controller-drone connection up to 2 km3. For operations over mountains and other complex environments, users can deploy a DJI Relay to extend transmission range and stability for improved operation safety. Dual Radar and Dual Binocular Vision for Obstacle Bypassing and Terrain Following T50 features dual Active Phased Array Radars and binocular vision sensors. These work together to accurately reconstruct the T50’s surroundings and detect nearby obstacles, for intelligent obstacle sensing and bypassing, and Terrain Following over slopes. Four Sprinkler Kit T50 can be equipped with an additional pair of centrifugal sprinklers, increasing flow rate to 24 liters per minute. This benefits tasks like orchard spraying that require a higher flow rate to penetrate dense canopies and treat the fronts and backs of leaves. 9-Minute Fast Charging T50 is powered by a DB1560 Intelligent Flight Battery, with a capacity of up to 30 Ah and 1500 charge cycles4. The D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator paired with the Air-Cooled Heat Sink enables 9-minutes5 fast charging, allowing for continuous operations with a pair of batteries. Agras T25 – Precision Agriculture in a Portable Package The Agras T25 packs all the advanced features of the T50 into a smaller, portable design. It can carry a 20kg spraying or 25kg spreading payload and includes the T50’s top features like multidirectional obstacle avoidance, Terrain Following, ultra-fast battery charging, one-tap takeoffs, and automatic operations. This makes it perfect for solo use in small to medium-sized farms. DJI SmartFarm – Essential Agras Assistant The DJI SmartFarm app streamlines daily drone operations for crop protection and plot management with enhanced data visualization and reporting, a dynamic device management dashboard, and easy access to after sales support and learning resources on DJI Academy.  Longstanding Commitment to Safety and Security DJI places the highest priority on data privacy – and puts customers in control of their data’s use. No flight logs, photos, or videos are synced with DJI by default. DJI Agras drones are designed to store data locally in the remote control and the drone. Operators must opt-in to share or store their data on DJI servers. For users outside of the Chinese mainland, drone data shared with DJI are housed in U.S., Japan, and Europe servers and TLS-protected. Any personal data shared for account registration is further secured with AES-256 encryption. Operators can easily delete any data they have shared through their DJI account or by contacting DJI Support. Since 2017, we have regularly submitted our products for third-party security audits and certification, including Booz Allen Hamilton, FTI Consulting, and Kivu Consulting.   1. Data was measured with the DJI AGRAS T50 and may vary based on operating environment and parameters. Flight parameters for this test: Dosage of 15 L/ha, spraying width of 11 m, flight speed of 7 m/s, and height of 3 m. 2. Data measured with 4 mm diameter urea. Max flow rate may vary depending on the granule size, density, and surface smoothness of different fertilizers. 3. Measured at a flight altitude of 2.5 meters, without obstruction or electromagnetic interference. 4. Batteries are covered by warranty for up to 1,500 charging cycles or 12 months, whichever ends first. 5. Charging from 30% to 95%. Factors impacting charging time: Altitude of the charging station; Charging cable meets requirements for fast charging; Battery cell’s temperature is in the range of 15° to 70° C (59° to 158° F)

DJI Agriculture Launches the DJI Relay Module: Stay Connected and Take Your Agricultural Drone Capabilities to the Next Level

Experience the latest innovation in agricultural drone technology with the DJI Relay Module. Designed as an accessory module for DJI Agriculture drones (T40 and T20P), this module extends the signal transmission distance, making it an essential tool for large-scale farming operations on different terrains. *The Relay Module shown above is an early test version. The final version uses an optimized material for the antenna shell, resulting in a darker gray color.   During the operation, signal connections between the drone and remote controller can be disrupted by tall crops, trees, or hills, leading to display lag and an increased risk of signal loss.   To address this issue, DJI Agriculture has introduced the DJI Relay Module along with the latest firmware for T40 and T20P. To take full advantage of the module, it is recommended to upgrade the devices to the latest firmware version.   (Note: T20P is unavailable in certain countries and regions. Please consult your local distributor for information.) Easy Pairing With Your Agras Drone To use the relay module, the first step is to pair the relay module with the AGRAS drone. Simply short-press and hold the power button to turn on the module. When powered on, the RC and UAV lights will light up red. To start the pairing process, press and hold the power button until the left RC light turns green. Next, navigate to the device management section on the remote controller and select the Relay Module. Then, click on the pairing option to complete the process. When the RC and UAV lights both turn green, the pairing is successful. Long Hours Work Made Easy with Power Bank Support If you’re working long hours in the field and need to keep your Relay charged, consider using a PD protocol power bank. With a PD protocol power bank, you can ensure that your Relay stays powered up and ready to go, even when you’re away from a traditional power source. This can be especially useful if you’re working in remote areas. Essential Installation Tips and Safety Notes for DJI Relay Module The second step is to identify the ideal spot to install your Relay Module. The best location is a relatively high and central spot in your operation area. This helps to ensure the best signal coverage and connectivity for your drones. To mount the Relay Module, ensure that you have a standard tripod connector provided. You can purchase or customize a suitable pole and tripod base depending on the unique terrain and crops you are working with. Finally, attach the Relay Module to the tripod using the connector.  * Please use a 5/8’’ screw. The pole and tripod are not included in the product package.   Please be noted that the Relay Module should be installed at least 2 meters higher than the crop canopy that you will spray. Specially, for safety, please do not use it during thunderstorms. Stabler Signal Connection With the DJI Relay Module As shown on the screenshot, the drone demonstrates a stable signal even when flying to the other side of the mountain and reaching the valley.   

What does agricultural drone spraying of 66.7 million hectares mean to the planet?

The United Nations has predicted that the global population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050. As global warming and energy shortage intensifies, humans are facing unprecedented challenges on multiple fronts such as food, energy, and water supply. This has given rise to the pressing need for green and sustainable agricultural practices.   In 2021, DJI pilots have completed agricultural missions covering a total of 66.7 million hectares of farmland. Besides greater machine efficiency, what else have we contributed to the ecosystem and its sustainable development? Greener Practices Reduced carbon emissions by 3.43 million tonnes Climate change, which has triggered a series of environmental issues such as melting glaciers and rising sea levels, is impacting each of our lives. One of the ways of tackling the climate crisis is by reducing carbon emissions. To this end, China has committed to achieving peak emissions by 2030 and carbon neutralization by 2060. DJI Agriculture is echoing these goals by exploring ways to limit carbon emissions. In plant protection operations, replacing traditional machines with drones can reduce carbon emissions by 51.45 kg CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) per hectare.[1] For 66.7 million hectares, that’s equal to 3.43 million tonnes of CO2e. 3.43 million tonnes carbon emissions is equivalent to Carbon absorbed by 161 million trees in a year Carbon emissions from 1.27 million vehicles Saved water by 29 million tonnes The use of drones in farmland management saves around 435 liter of water per hectare compared to manual operations. For 66.7 million hectares, that’s equal to saving 29 million tonnes of water.29 million tonnes water is equivalent to the water intake of 52.72 million residents in a year[2]   Increased pesticide utilization rate by 10%[3] The application of agricultural drones can increase pesticide utilization rate by at least 10% compared to manual back-carried spraying. At the pesticide usage rate of 1.5 kg per hectare, 1,000 tonnes of pesticide can be saved by spraying 66.7 million hectares using drones. Increased safety in farmland management Pesticide poisoning has been a perennial problem in the industry. The increased use of agricultural drones has made farmland operations safer by protecting personnel from chemical hazards, providing farmers with a healthier, safer work environment. Providing new solutions to environmental protection Regreening mines in Xinjiang Three years ago, several abandoned mines in Fukang City, Changji Prefecture of Xinjiang were found to have caused severe pollution to local environment. In March 2021, DJI’s agricultural partner Tieman plant protection team joined the regreening operations for the mines, where they seeded 666.7 hectares of land using drones and restored its vegetation. This summer, the mines were covered in sweeping green grass and showing vital signs of growth. Seeding success for mudflats in Zhejiang In March 2021, Shanghai Mu Ying Ecological Technology scattered 12 million scirpus mariquete seeds on mudflats near the 10-km Baishawan Seawall in the coastal wetlands of Pinghu City, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, using the DJI T30. In four months, the area developed into a green and picturesque ecological attraction. The successful project provides valuable seeding experiences that are replicable in future wetland protection efforts. Grass seeding on the Tibetan Plateau The ecological environment in Tibet is fragile owing to a combination of factors including its high altitude, cold climate and unique topology and aquatic environment, which have led to serious desertification and land degradation issues. In May 28, 2021, the DJI plant protection team conducted its first drone grass-seeding mission across nine counties in four cities, namely Lhasa, Shigatse, Shannan, and Nyingchi, aiming to improve forestation capabilities in snowy plateaus. The operation covered an area of 44,320 hectares, with around 323.01 tonnes of seeds spread. Digital agriculture for precision farmland management Variable spread lowered fertilizer consumption in rice and wheat fields by 10%   In 2021, Jiangsu Farming onboarded DJI’s digital agricultural solutions in the operation of its farmland of 86,700 hectares. During the pandemic, the company embraced digital production management by deploying drones for autonomous patrols and remote monitoring of crop growth. With the drone’s variable and precise spreading technology, they were also able to reduce fertilizer consumption in their rice and wheat fields by 10%. Precise chemical control and defoliation for cotton crops In May 2021, Chen Gongxu from Shihezi City, Xinjiang adopted DJI’s digital agricultural solutions for his cotton fields of more than 333.3 hectares. He used a multispectral drone to survey cotton growth in different areas and to generate treatment maps for spraying plant promoters in variable amounts. By relying on multispectral data, the drone could also spray defoliants in precise quantities. This not only minimizes the use of defoliants but is also friendlier to the land and the environment, all while ensuring proper defoliation of the crops. As of September 28, Chen’s cotton yield saw an increase of 900 kg to 9,150 kg per hectare and a reduction in chemical usage by 20%. Better Growth, Better Life. [1] 1.Diesel is the main source of fuel for conventional tractors. Based on the IPCC Guidelines, the calorific value per unit for diesel fuel used by agricultural machinery is 42,652 KJ/kg, with a CO2 emission factor per calorific value unit of 74.1 kg/GJ and carbon oxidation factor of 0.98. Therefore, the CO2 emission factor for diesel fuel is 3.10 kg CO2e/kg. In 2016, the median fuel consumption for mechanized plant protection operations in China was 16.8 kg/ha, which translates to carbon emissions of 52.05 kg per hectare. Aerial application drones are mostly powered electrically and their spraying actions are mainly driven by gasoline generators. The calorific value per unit for gasoline is 43,070 KJ/kg, with a CO2 emission factor per calorific value unit of 69.3 kg/GJ and carbon oxidation factor of 0.98. This means the CO2 emission factor for gasoline is 2.93kg CO2e/kg. In plant protection operations, the gasoline consumption per hectare is approx. 0.21 kg/ha, which translates to carbon emissions per hectare of 0.63 kg CO2e. Agricultural drones are more energy efficient than conventional machinery, able to reduce carbon emissions by 51.45 kg CO2e per hectare. [2]A human’s average water intake…

High-precision Plant Stand Count for Corn, Sunflower and Sugar Beet by a Drone and AI

Plant stand count is an essential task in yield management. It allows growers to estimate the plant population, density, germination rate, and plant health and make timely decisions that finally affect the yield. Common manual methods of plant stand counting have helped growers for decades. They are based on visual inspection and plant calculation on small pre-defined field areas. However, these methods are laborious and far from accurate. Fragmented plant stand count does not provide the complete picture, and problem areas with uneven emergence or weeds might be overlooked. The lack of information on the field eventually leads to a waste of resources and less profitable decisions. New technologies like drones and AI leverage the opportunity to make Agri operations smarter and more efficient. With this innovative approach, growers can now receive accurate data, make timely decisions and sustainably maximise the yield. Surprisingly, this is not as complicated or costly as it might seem. This article covers precise plant stand count using an off-the-shelf drone and Proofminder’s trained AI algorithm for accurate yield assessment and the following insights on the field. You will find practical tips on image collection and recommended approach for corn, sugar beet and sunflower, but the information is also useful for other field crops, vegetables and orchards. If you have a drone or considering buying one to turn a tedious task into an interactive process and get a high-precision result, keep reading. You will find drone requirements, flight tips and common mistakes, and learn how to get a precision stand count report in a few hours with an innovative AI farming platform. Why and when do you need a precise plant stand count? There are situations when a low accuracy report is acceptable, but it is absolutely essential to have a precise one if you aim to: Check the sowing quality, especially if you are producing seeds; Understand zones of varying productivity in the fields; Receive accurate data during R&D projects; Estimate the yield precisely in the early stages; Spot rogues; Make timely decisions, i.e., partially replant the field; Increase the yield potential to meet the production goals. What are benefits of automated plant stand count? On the automatic report generated by Proofminder platform, you can see Plant & row density; Precise plant stand count; Each plant is marked on the field with precise coordinates; Plant distinguished by phenotype, in this case – male and female plants of hybrid corn are marked with a different colour; Zoom-in feature to analyse specific zones, rows or plants. When is the best time for plant stand count using a drone and AI? Estimating the number of plants and their density is crucial for early-season yield management. The accurate information here is a chance to save the yield if something goes wrong and improve the harvest. To gather proper images for further analysis, consider the tips about plants and the weather. The plant should be big enough to be seen from the air, but the leaves are not yet too close to each other to distinguish plants and estimate the density. As an example, for the precise stand count of corn, the plant should have about 3-7 leaves (V3-V7 vegetation stages). The weather should be stable during the footage, thus the lens can adapt to the conditions whether it is sunny or cloudy. Also, it should not be too windy, note that the wind speed may greatly vary depending on the altitude. Which altitude is right for a stand count? Find below! Figure 1 Corn field​ Figure 2 Manual plant stand count of corn​ Capturing images by a drone – instructions and tips The ideal resolution for plant stand count by a drone and intelligent software depends on the plant and the goal. For precise stand calculation of corn, sunflower, sugar beet, and some other field crops and vegetables would be 0.8 cm per pixel or less. What does it imply, and what kind of drone is suitable? The widely available DJI Phantom 4 Pro V.2. can be a good entry-level option for that job, similarly, the DJI Phantom 4 RTK is also a great option if you want a professional drone with high precision positioning. You will need to fly at 18-30 meter altitude to get the indicated resolution. Be aware that some of the Integrated controllers (the Plus versions) limit the flight altitude to 25m above the ground so if you want to count small crops and fly low, you would rather choose the simple controller and instruct the drone from your mobile or tablet.  The ideal speed to capture detailed images would be between 3-5 m/s depending on the altitude and the wind conditions. Using this drone, you can proceed at about 25-30 hectares per day if you have enough batteries; mind you: you can charge them on the site. Proofminder works on novel ways to capture images and foresee the possibility in the near future to capture up to double of this area per day by a Phantom 4 drone.   There are ways to extend the area of image capturing in the near future. Proofminder team foresees this possibility and works to double the area captured per day by a Phantom 4 drone. Figure 3 Shooting images for plant stand count by DJI Phantom 4​ Things to avoid; the Top-10 common mistakes in drone footage: Wrong exposure setting, not properly assessing the weather, resulting in over- or underexposure. Overexposure is more of a problem than underexposure, so if you need to choose between cloud and sunny, and you are not sure, you can safely go for sunny. Too much wind or unstable weather conditions result in blurry images. Not equipped with sufficient memory cards, make sure you have at least a 64 GB card for ~40-50 hectares of land. Not enough batteries and/or chargers to fly continuously during the day. Shooting after rain may require some recalibrations because the plant on the wet soil may not be visible enough, keep this in mind. Not flying with the right amount…

Introducing Drone Technology for Precise Agricultural Cotton Production

Background Cotton, the most important fiber crop in the world, plays a significant role in the economics of many countries. In the crop year 2020/2021,[1] China, India, and the United States ranked as the top three producers of cotton. China ranked second behind Australia in average yield – 1,879 kg per hectare. High yield is not only due to a high mechanization rate but also precise management by cotton farmers. Cotton farmers make many decisions across the growing season – sowing, reseeding, fertilization, growth regulation, pesticide spraying, defoliant application, etc.   In order to improve crop scouting efficiency, reduce chemical usage, and boost yield, cotton farmers in China’s Xinjiang Province are adopting drone technology in both field scouting and chemical application. The Mission Gongxu Chen is a cotton farmer in Xinjiang, China, who manages 300ha of cotton fields. Formerly, in order to optimize yield, he applied Mepiquat chloride, a chemical used as a growth regulator in cotton, 6-7 times in one growing season to tune the height and canopy of the cotton plants. Before each application, Gongxu walked the field on foot and selected around three sample locations in every ten hectares to take individual height measurements. This year, he used DJI’s P4 Multispectral drone to help with field scouting. In one 25-minute flight, the P4 Multispectral drone captured 45 hectares of imagery. The imagery was post-processed in DJI Terra software to generate RGB mapping and vegetation indices, including NDVI. In less than one day, Gongxu received an NDVI growth map of his 300ha cotton farm, showing the growth variation of the whole field. With this map, Gongxu was able to segment his fields into growth zones and strategically place sampling locations for further inspection. RGB imagery and NDVI map of 45ha cotton fields An NDVI map is also used for precise spraying. Based on the NDVI map, Gongxu modified his regular flat-rate application method to variable rate application (VRA) by generating a Mepiquat chloride prescription map in which only the area with over-growth was assigned a spraying rate while the rest were left as non-spray. This prescription map was then downloaded to the DJI Agras T30 drone for execution. Prescription map of Mepiquat chloride T30 in mission Similarly, in the later growth stage, Gongxu generated a VRA prescription for foliar fertilization to boost the growth of the weaker regions and improve the homogeneity of the field. Improved field homogeneity after VRA, as shown by an NDVI map Conclusion The success of new technology adoption interests cotton farmers in the region. Gongxu plans to expand his business to provide precision agriculture services to neighboring farms, scouting cotton fields using P4 Multispectral and offering variable rate application with Agras drones. In his world, “Investment in drone technology clearly improves yield potential and reduces farming costs. By providing services, more farmers can benefit from innovative precision agriculture solutions.” In order to improve crop scouting efficiency, reduce chemical usage, and boost yield, cotton farmers in China’s Xinjiang Province are adopting drone technology in both field scouting and chemical application.