Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Agriculture: A Review of Perspective of Platform, Control, and Applications

Jeongeun Kim,Seungwon Kim,Hyoung Il Son,Chanyoung Ju

doi:10.1109/access.2019.2932119

Abstract

For agricultural applications, regularized smart-farming solutions are being considered, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The UAVs combine information and communication technologies, robots, artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things. The agricultural UAVs are highly capable, and their use has expanded across all areas of agriculture, including pesticide and fertilizer spraying, seed sowing, and growth assessment and mapping. Accordingly, the market for agricultural UAVs is expected to continue growing with the related technologies. In this study, we consider the latest trends and applications of leading technologies related to agricultural UAVs, control technologies, equipment, and development. We discuss the use of UAVs in real agricultural environments. Furthermore, the future development of the agricultural UAVs and their challenges are presented.

Highlights

According to the ‘Agriculture in 2050 Project,’ the world population will reach about 10 billion by 2050
AGRICULTURAL unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) PLATFORMS UAVs are rapidly evolving in the field of agriculture, replacing satellites and other aircraft
We review the platforms, control, and applications of agricultural UAVs that have been developed or understudy

Summary

INTRODUCTION

According to the ‘Agriculture in 2050 Project,’ the world population will reach about 10 billion by 2050. To raise the food production rate, agriculture requires automation, robotics, information services, and intelligence that combines information and communication technologies (ICT), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and the internet of things. Leading technologies include precision positioning, navigation, controls, imaging, communications, sensors, materials, batteries, circuits, and motors. Depending on the use of the UAV and the characteristics of the farming sector, various technologies (e.g., equipment development, nozzle controls, and big data) are required. We examine trends, the status, latest technologies, and utilization areas for agricultural UAVs and provide direction, prospects, and resolution tasks for the future.

AGRICULTURAL UAV PLATFORMS UA

Findings

CONCLUSION