Agrii is breaking new ground in trial plot data collection with the introduction of a ‘drone in a box’ (DiaB) system. This innovative concept could revolutionise data acquisition by enabling fully autonomous drone flights, significantly reducing travel time and increasing the frequency of assessments.

Eliminating Travel Time

Currently, drone assessments require extensive travel. For example, Jonathan Trotter, a key member of the Agrii team, often undertakes a three-hour round trip to conduct just 17 minutes of drone data collection. By authorising the DiaB concept for trial use, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) could pave the way for remote and more frequent assessments.

Jonathan explains, Fully autonomous flight would allow us to capture data daily, enabling us to monitor the exact timing and duration of flowering for each trial plot. This level of detail would be invaluable.

First DiaB Installation in the UK

In May, Agrii installed one of the first DiaB systems dedicated to trial plot data collection in the UK at a site in Yorkshire. This project is a collaboration with DroneAg through their Skippy Scout software, which supports autonomous drone operations.

Progress Towards Full Autonomy

Currently, the system requires a person on-site to monitor the drone during its autonomous flight. The operator must maintain a visual line of sight and be able to take control if needed. Jonathan notes, This is a necessary step in proving that autonomous drone flights are safe and feasible, which is essential for securing full authorisation.

The journey to approval is complex. Jonathan anticipates that Agrii will receive authorisation for fully autonomous flights by 2025. The process involves stringent assessments by the CAA, which evaluates applications on a company-by-company basis, ensuring the highest standards of safety and operation.

Unlocking New Potential

By enabling daily, remote data collection, the DiaB system could provide unprecedented insights into trial performance. From flowering patterns to crop development timelines, this technology represents a significant leap forward in precision agriculture, with Agrii leading the charge in innovation.