NovAtel, a leader in advanced GPS and GNSS positioning technologies tailored for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other unmanned systems, has unveiled a case study that showcases the request of GNSS receivers and RTK positioning in the XAG P30 Plant Protection UAS, specifically designed for precision agricultural spraying. This insightful case study is featured in NovAtel’s annual publication, Velocity magazine.
Access the complete edition of NovAtel’s Velocity Magazine here.
Based in China, XAG is dedicated to creating innovative services and solutions that empower farmers to enhance productivity while ensuring the safety of their produce. A significant aspect of their approach involves utilizing drones for effective crop protection.
Traditional manual spraying techniques come with various drawbacks and hazards. For instance, backpack spraying exposes the operator to high levels of chemicals, posing serious health risks. Tractors, while effective, can inadvertently damage crops during the spraying process, negatively impacting farmers’ profits. Additionally, manned aircraft are constrained by the need for airport facilities and can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for smaller agricultural operations.
The engineers behind the fully autonomous XAG P30 Plant Protection UAS faced numerous challenges regarding positioning accuracy. Conventional UAV systems typically rely on a barometer for altitude measurement, GPS for location tracking, and a compass for directional guidance. However, these tools do not provide the precision required for effective crop spraying. Consequently, the team opted for a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver from NovAtel, specifically designed to deliver a dual-antenna, high-precision RTK solution for navigation.
“At that time, we encountered numerous challenges in the UAS plant protection sector,” stated Justin Gong, vice president of XAG. “The compass was prone to interference, leading to frequent mishaps.GPS positioning accuracy varied significantly over time, hindering autonomous flight and the reuse of survey data. This is why we chose to implement RTK positioning.”
By integrating the RTK module into the P30 Plant Protection UAS,the team achieved the precise positioning and directional facts essential for effective and accurate crop spraying.This module was also utilized in the drone’s RTK base station.
For further insights into NovAtel’s GNSS solutions for precision agriculture and details about the P30 Plant Protection UAS, be sure to download the complete issue of novatel’s Velocity Magazine.
