Sponsor Deadline
Posted: 4/4/2024

Bayer Crop Science -- Automated solutions for open-field plot grid creation (Hi-Res UAV imagery)

In the realm of agricultural research, particularly in field trials for vegetables, the creation of open-field plot grids stands as a pivotal component within the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) image processing workflow. This process holds paramount importance as it lays the foundation for subsequent analyses and evaluations. 

Traditionally, the creation of open-field plot grids for UAV image processing in vegetable trials has heavily relied on manual GPS measurements. However, this method is beset with challenges, notably being time-consuming, labor-intensive, and susceptible to errors. These difficulties are particularly pronounced in scenarios where high-precision transplanters are not readily available. 

The reliance on manual GPS measurements not only imposes burdensome constraints on resources but also introduces inaccuracies that can compromise the integrity of the entire image processing workflow. Without precise plot GPS measurements, the UAV image data cannot undergo proper processing, leading to an inability to generate UAV traits accurately and assign them to individual plots. 

Thus, there exists a pressing need for a more efficient, accurate, and reliable solution to facilitate the creation of open-field plot grids in vegetable trials. By addressing these challenges, researchers can enhance the efficacy of UAV-based image processing methodologies, ultimately advancing the progress and insights gained from agricultural field trials.

We are looking for an innovative and efficient automated workflow or technology that can rapidly generate a geospatially accurate grid for the entire field with minimal manual labor. The proposed solution should eliminate the need for manual GPS measurements and ensure the creation of a precise and complete as-planted grid, integrating seamlessly with the existing UAV image processing workflow.

Deadline: May 31, 2024

Amount Description

Sponsored research: Up to $100,000 for a proof-of-concept, with additional potential funding for further development. Postdoctoral funding over 1 to 2 years within salary ranges consistent with the current market for further evaluation of potential leads, along with possible license of researcher's patented materials.