How energy-efficient UAVs are transforming pesticide spraying

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), often called “drones”, is one of the modern technologies widely used in different fields such as real-time monitoring, remote sensing, disaster relief operations, delivery of goods, security and surveillance, precision agriculture, and civil infrastructure inspection. In agriculture, UAVs are transforming the modern agricultural practices through enhanced efficiency, precision, and reduced labour intensity. Due to global population growth, global food demand increases therefore UAVs are becoming important tools in precision agriculture [1]. UAVs are integrated in farming operations and support a range of tasks including crop monitoring, pesticide and fertilizer spraying, seed sowing and growth evaluation. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and cutting-edge sensors, UAVs can gather real-time data on pest infestations, soil condition, and crop health. From those data about where and when apply inputs such as fertilizers or pesticides, and water ensuring better resource efficiency.