Remote Sensing Crop Yield Loss Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining nitrogen deficiency in crops using remote sensing technologies lack the capability to accurately predict yield loss and optimize nitrogen fertilizer application, leading to inefficient use of resources and potential economic losses due to the spatial variability of nitrogen loss in agricultural fields.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing remote sensing images to calculate relative color or index values from visible and near-infrared spectra, comparing them to reference values from nitrogen-sufficient areas, and applying empirically-derived functions to estimate yield loss and determine optimal nitrogen fertilizer rates, thereby providing a cost-effective approach to manage nitrogen supplementation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional soil testing and localized crop information methods are used to accurately determine nitrogen status, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate due to the time-consuming and labor-intensive nature of repeated minute measurements across the field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical sampling methods (soil testing, handheld sensors) with remote sensing technology using aerial or satellite imagery. This substitution allows for rapid, non-contact assessment of crop nitrogen status across entire fields simultaneously, eliminating the time-consuming process of repeated localized measurements while maintaining measurement precision through spectral analysis of crop reflectance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a single remote sensing system that can assess nitrogen status across the entire field in one operation, making the assessment process universal rather than localized. The same imaging system can evaluate multiple locations, depths, and crop areas simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate sampling operations at different field locations
2Loss of time
If remote sensing technology is used to assess crop nitrogen status, then loss of time is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to the lack of high-precision localized nitrogen content data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where remote sensing data is continuously monitored and compared against reference values or historical data. The system uses feedback loops to refine nitrogen status assessments, adjusting for environmental variables and calibration requirements, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining the time efficiency of remote sensing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the measurement parameters by using spectral reflectance data from multiple wavelengths and combining them through mathematical models to estimate nitrogen content. This parameter transformation allows remote sensing to achieve precision comparable to localized measurements by analyzing changes in light reflection patterns that correlate with nitrogen status
3Productivity
If excess nitrogen fertilizer is applied at planting to compensate for anticipated nitrogen losses, then crop yield is improved, but loss of substance deteriorates due to nitrogen leaching and groundwater contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling site-specific nitrogen management based on spatially variable assessments of crop nitrogen status. Instead of uniform fertilizer application, the system identifies specific areas within the field that require nitrogen supplementation, allowing farmers to apply fertilizer only where needed, thereby maintaining crop yield while reducing overall nitrogen loss and environmental contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary assessment of crop nitrogen status using remote sensing before making fertilizer application decisions. This preliminary action allows farmers to plan and target nitrogen applications in advance, avoiding both the over-application that causes loss and the under-application that limits yield, by identifying precise locations and timing for supplemental nitrogen
4Productivity
If rescue nitrogen application is performed to respond to nitrogen loss, then crop yield is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need for specialized high-clearance equipment or aerial applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing advance warning and precise location data for areas requiring nitrogen supplementation. By identifying problem areas before they become critical and providing detailed spatial information, the system allows farmers to use standard ground-based application equipment rather than requiring specialized high-clearance or aerial equipment, thereby maintaining productivity while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acts as an intermediary by providing information that bridges the gap between nitrogen loss occurrence and fertilizer application. The remote sensing system detects nitrogen deficiency and translates it into actionable spatial data that can guide conventional application equipment, serving as a mediator that enables effective nitrogen management without requiring complex specialized equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables farmers to accurately predict crop yield loss and determine economically optimal nitrogen fertilizer rates, reducing unnecessary fertilizer application and associated costs while maximizing crop yield, by using aerial photographs to assess nitrogen deficiency and its impact on yield.
Implementation Method 1
the light with a wavelength related to crop nitrogen content is irradiated on a leaf blade of the crop and based on the reflectivity of the leaf at this wavelength of light; the leaf blade nitrogen content is measured with high precision
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining the yield loss of a crop using remote sensor data is described. The yield loss is determined using the reflectivity of light by the crop canopy measured from remote sensor data such as an aerial photograph. Pixel color values from the aerial photograph, expressed relative to pixel values from nitrogen-sufficient areas of the field, are transformed to yield losses using a transformation that was developed using empirical data. A similar method is described to determine recommended nitrogen fertilization rates for the crop fields. The yield loss data is useful for nitrogen fertilization management decisions, as it allows a producer of crops to weigh the expense of fertilization against the loss of revenue due to yield loss induced by nitrogen deficiency.