Projects

Introducing Agriphotonics: Smart laser systems and AI-driven image recognition for a digital agriculture 4.0

The “Insect Laser” project was set up to test a combined laser and image recognition technology developed at Fraunhofer IZM for pest control in grain stores. The Julius-Kühn Institute of Berlin, with its renowned crop protection specialists, provided the initial concepts and acted as project coordinator, while the Brandenburg Technical University at Cottbus took charge of image processing and machine vision / machine learning.

The project managed to demonstrate the real-life viability of the new technology for identifying and fighting insect infestation. Although originally trialled only for wheat weevils, Sitophilus granarius, and Indianmeal moths, Plodia interpunctella, the chosen components, design, and processes for the system make it easy to adapt the laser and its operating software for other common pests.