Soltel develops a smart sampling and detection platform to monitor crops
The project pursues two fundamental objectives: firstly, to monitor ripening and other quality parameters such as Brix levels or acidity, in order to predict productivity and choose the optimal harvest date; and secondly, to detect the most common pests and diseases in early stages to avoid infestations by minimizing the use of pesticides.
The platform is made up of different modules that apply different technologies, including meteorological and soil moisture and conductivity sensors, wireless communications, and a hyperspectral/thermal image analysis system to carry out periodic sampling of the crop's condition, both at ground level and with drone flights.
The data received is combined and analyzed using machine vision and data analytics techniques, allowing for predictions about final crop yield and various quality parameters, as well as the early detection of symptoms of the most common pests and diseases. This enables rapid and effective intervention in affected areas, minimizing the use of pesticides, which has a positive impact on the profitability and sustainability of the crop.
The system has been validated in olive groves belonging to two large cooperatives, taking into account three different farming methods: extensive (dryland), intensive, and super-intensive (irrigated). The study included five different olive varieties (Arbequina, Picual, Morisca, Manzanilla, and Cornicabra), which allowed for results that are highly representative of the sector as a whole. The results of the first season showed a margin of error of less than 10% in estimating the maturity index and less than 15% in predicting final production, with slight differences between varieties. In subsequent seasons, the system will continue to learn and improve as its knowledge base expands.
Although the project initially focused on olive cultivation for oil, Soltel is currently part of two operational groups working on adapting the system to other crops, specifically grapes and processing tomatoes.
Strategic agreements
Alongside the technical development of these innovative solutions, Soltel is forging commercial agreements with partners and distributors across various subsectors to offer integrated solutions that deliver greater added value. In this regard, the close collaboration with expert consultants in Digital Transformation for the agricultural sector is particularly noteworthy, as they undoubtedly contribute significantly to the solutions offered.
Another technological lever Soltel is leveraging to develop new solutions for the agricultural sector is blockchain technology. Specifically, they are working on mechanisms to improve traceability in internal and external processes for companies. These improvements would optimize the operation of these processes and secure the entire supply chain, from the field to the end consumer, adding a layer of quality.
Soltel has co-financed the development of these solutions with FEDER and EAFRD funds.
