Farming Technology: Better Yields

Farming technologies are the techniques and tools used to improve yield, efficiency and quality of agriculture which uses technology and data to optimise crop management and reduce inputs like fertiliser and water. Farming technology also includes things such as irrigation systems, modified crops and machinery. With the help of technology, farmers can increase their crop yields and reduce the amount of labour required to maintain and harvest their crops.

Transformation Of Farming

Agriculture is one of the oldest industries in the world and it is inevitable that a digital transformation will take place. Transformation in Farming is important to meet the increase in demand as the population grows.

Over the past 50 years, the transformation is clear and radical, similar to the transition in the online casino and bet industry. These advances have increased farm equipment's scale, productivity and speed, resulting in better yields and larger areas being cultivated.

Data and connectivity, although in their early days will result in the emergence of artificial intelligence, connected sensors, analytics, and other technologies that are likely to assist with increasing yield and productivity.

How Is Technology Currently Used In Farming?

Current IoT technologies that use 3G and 4G technology are sufficient for simple use cases such as monitoring livestock and crops. The drop in the pricing of hardware has played a major role as farmers acquire more advanced equipment.

The need for more advanced equipment is a major concern in the farming industry. The industry is likely to see a radical transformation by 2030. Digitising is a requirement and is likely to be easier for larger farm owners with higher investing power. Here are some use cases when provided with high-speed and low-latency networks such as 5G.

Crop Monitoring

Connectivity means observation and care of crops are diverse. Integrating multiple systems such as irrigation and weather data will boost yield and improve predictions. Smart monitoring is made possible by 5G networks and this can help farmers optimise the harvest window.

Equipment and Building Management

The use of predictive maintenance systems could cut the cost of maintenance extending machine life through computer vision and attached sensors. The same chips and sensors can also be used to monitor silo levels and warehouse stock reducing inventory costs and triggering automated reordering.

Livestock Monitoring

In livestock monitoring, the use of environmental sensors triggers automatic adjustments for barn heating will lessen distress and improve living conditions. Chips and body sensors could be used for the early detection of distress and illnesses in animals. This will improve the food quality and prevent herd infection. Technologies such as ear tags are already being used by farmers providing a similar experience.

Autonomous Farming Machinery

Autonomous machines are created to be highly efficient and precise than when human-operated machines are used. They work with precise GPS controls combined with sensors and computer vision. This means they can operate multiple machines simultaneously. With better autonomy for machinery through better connectivity projects a $50 to $ 60 billion of additional value by 2030.

Farming By Drone

Farming by drone has been in use for decades. Farmers have been relying on remote-controlled helicopters to spray crops. Drones now have added abilities such as surveying crops and herds over wide areas of land. More advanced drones could also use computer vision to analyse fields to deliver precise interventions such as fertilisers and pesticides.