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Digital Twins and AI in Action: Highlights from the Smart Droplets Vodcast

Published on
October 22, 2024

We were recently featured in a vodcast series covering the Smart Droplets Project, a European initiative aimed at reducing pesticide and fertilizer use through AI, data, and robotic technologies. Michiel Kallenberg and Hilmy Baja highlighted our contributions, showcasing the development of digital twins and AI models designed to support precision spraying. A key focus of this work is the use of reinforcement learning to optimize fertilizer and pesticide application strategies, ensuring efficient resource use while minimizing environmental impact.

During the vodcast, Michiel and Hilmy demonstrated how digital twins allow for (near) real-time monitoring and simulation of crop conditions, enabling more informed, data-driven decisions in the field. The WOFOST model and A-scab model is used to simulate fertilization and pesticide spraying outcomes, respectively. The AI models, trained through reinforcement learning, provide precise recommendations for fertilizer amount and chemical dosage, ensuring that only the necessary amount is applied. This approach supports the European Green Deal's vision of sustainable agriculture by reducing resource waste in fertilizer and pesticide use.

The vodcast is available to watch at https://bit.ly/4dDnm7z. More information about the Smart Droplets Project can be found on https://smartdroplets.eu/.