Keller, B., Zimmermann, L., Rascher, U., Matsubara, S., Steier, A., & Muller, O. (2022). Toward predicting photosynthetic efficiency and biomass gain in crop genotypes over a field season. Plant Physiology, 188(1), 301-317. doi:10.1093/plphys/kiab483
FieldCop
Field vehicle with height adjustable scanning arm
The FieldCop is a high precision 3D-positioning system for field measurements with custom sensor equipment based on a hydrostatically driven small vehicle. The sensor platform can move a controlled speed along a height adjustable arm that is placed above the plant canopy.
The vehicle has a deadweight of 1.6 metric tons and chassis dimensions of 300 x 130 x 98 cm (L x W x H). In addition it offers standard agricultural connectors such as a 3-point hitch, two power take-offs and hydraulics connections for accessory equipment. A maximum velocity of 8 km/h is possible. In manual mode the vehicle is controlled by using a remote control. There is automatic positioning control along the arm that can be extended to RTK-GPS vehicle steering and positioning control.
