Trimble company focuses on smart spraying via AI RYAN RIDLEY MANAGING EDITOR REAL-TIME SPOT SPRAYING WITH BILBERRY In recent years, there have been significant advancements in agriculture spraying technology. Now, as companies harness artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning, this sector is poised for further innovation and growth. That is where Bilberry come into the scene. A now Trimble-owned company, Bilberry was started in 2016 by three engineering students seeking a new way to use AI to solve sustainability challenges. The trio identified the costs and environmental implications of overusing chemicals as well as weed resistance in agricultural spraying. And the journey to develop its Intelligent Spot Spraying System began. The system uses AI and deep learning technology to identify and spot spray weeds locally and in real-time, controlling weeds in Green-on-Brown and Green-onGreen applications at different growth stages. “Ultimately, what the system is and what it is all about is helping farmers save money on herbicide applications,” explains Cory Buchs, Senior Product Director, Agriculture Software with Trimble. “We have seen all the way up to 90% savings on a farm in herbicide by just applying the chemical where the weed is in the field.” The Spot Spraying System by Bilberry executes a three-stage process. Step 1: Scan Its camera analyses the field and provides continuous pictures back to the computer. Step 2: Detect The Bilberry OS uses AI to provide accurate weed detection—in real time. It then generates weed identifications and cell activations on the spray map. Step 3: Spray With its in-cab display, the operator controls the system to select the weeds to target, crops to protect, as well as configure the system for accuracy. The individual nozzles then apply the product. PHOTOS: bilberry.io 04
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