Development and evaluation of a sensor-based slope-compensation system for camera-guided hoeing in maize

Abstract

Sensor technologies were integrated into a commercial sensor-guided hoeing system to counteract the force of gravity and reduce crop damage caused by the offset of hoeing in maize fields on sloping terrains. For this study, a hoe was equipped with a contact disc, sensors, an electric cylinder, and a decision support system. The offset of the hoe could be compensated in real time based on the automatic adjustment angle of the support wheel. In maize, three field experiments were conducted over two years to evaluate the system on three different slope gradients (between 4 and 12°). Plant populations were measured in each plot one day before and during hoeing to evaluate crop damage. However, for support wheel angle, Slope Compensation Intensity (SCI) 2 and 3, there were no significant crop plant losses in any trials. As a result, there was no hoe drifting during the sensor-based guidance along the rows. It has been verified that the development presented is functional and can counteract the force of gravity on slopes. This development aims to optimise the use of precision mechanical weed control and support farmers during hoeing on hilly terrain.