Image Based Techniques for Determining Spread Patterns of Centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders

Abstract

Precision fertilization requires new techniques for determining the spread pattern of fertilizer spreaders. Because of the accuracy and non-intrusive nature, techniques based on digital image processing are most promising. Using image processing, dynamics of particles leaving the spreader can be determined. Combined with a ballistic flight model, this allows predicting the landing position of individual fertilizer particles. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m). In the second approach, a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) was used. To improve the accuracy of previous technique, binocular stereovision was used to determine three-dimensional information.