Precise Agriculture thanks to high-tech steering system on the DeBiFix
The DeBiFix, a field robot with an X-ray system from Fraunhofer IIS, was successfully equipped with an RTK-GNSS-supported guidance system at the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT).
In a joint project between the Competence Centre for Digital Agriculture (KoDA) at HSWT and the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS, a significant step has been taken towards the high-precision recording of plant characteristics.
The company geo-konzept was also involved in retrofitting the system. All partners contributed their respective expertise in the fields of GNSS-based navigation, Agricultural Engineering and digital systems to enable reliable, centimetre-precise steering of the DeBiFix. The joint integration of the steering system impressively demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration enables the use of innovative technologies.
The new steering system is based on Real Time Kinematic (RTK) technology, which uses satellite-based correction signals to enable extremely precise navigation - a key prerequisite for autonomous detection of plant characteristics using X-ray technology. The DeBiFix can now follow tracks with the utmost accuracy, minimising damage to test plots. Initial use is planned for the current vegetation period.
