The role of artificial intelligence in smart farming

Some of the first smart farming trends centered around high-tech machinery and equipment such as agricultural drones, robotic arms, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices like moisture sensors and weather stations. These are being used to collect data on crop health and environmental conditions. These technologies have all helped initiate the sustainable agriculture movement across the industry, and now, artificial intelligence is advancing it. From optimizing crop yields to preventing disease outbreaks, AI is revolutionizing agriculture by analyzing data from a variety of sources, including sensors and cameras. See how innovative agtech startups across North America are harnessing the power of AI to empower planting, harvesting, and other farming activities across the world.

Utilizing AI algorithms to reduce herbicide

Monumental challenges call for intelligent machinery. This was the vision that drove two Stanford PhD students to create products that enable farmers to work more efficiently, sustainably and profitably. Together, they launched California-based Blue River Technology to develop smart machines and artificial intelligence algorithms for precision agriculture. Their flagship product, See & Spray Technology, uses computer vision and machine learning to identify and target individual plants with herbicide, reducing the amount of chemicals used while increasing yield. In a similar way, Carbon Robotics, a Seattle-based agricultural robotics startup is transforming the arduous task of weeding by utilizing AI and laser technology. Hi-res cameras feed imagery to computer vision models to identify crops and weeds that are then killed through high-precision lasers. This chemical-free, no-till, weed control improves crop yield and reduces costs associated with farming.

Democratizing information through AI

Farmers are the ultimate entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurs need data to empower their business. FBN (Farmer’s Business Network) provides a digital platform that helps farmers optimize their operations by providing data analytics, agronomic advice, and supply chain management services. The platform uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze data on crop yields, soil health, and weather patterns, providing insights and recommendations to farmers. By providing unbiased analytics and creating competition for farmers’ business, FBN is able to level the playing field and democratize information.

Diagnosing crop health with AI and computer vision

At harvest time, reducing losses is a top priority for food producers. That's why Farmwave's artificial intelligence vision software conducts loss checks on the go, without disrupting the harvesting process. By leveraging the power of AI and computer vision, Farmwave is changing the way farmers monitor and diagnose crop health. Using machine learning algorithms and a camera system, the platform analyzes crop images to detect patterns that signal disease or stress, and provides recommendations such as adjusting irrigation or applying treatments. With R&D and engineering teams across the U.S., Farmwave’s solutions are poised to transform the harvest season.

Optimizing dairy production with AI-powered sensors and analysis

Crops aren’t the only thing benefitting from AI; cows are too. SomaDetect develops precision technology to help dairy farmers make the best possible milk. The Canadian dairy tech startup offers farmers an in-line sensor system that analyzes milk quality and health indicators in real-time. The system uses optical sensors and deep-learning algorithms to detect diseases, reproductive issues, and nutritional deficiencies in cows. Armed with this data, farmers are able to optimize their herd's health, reduce costs, and increase milk production.

What’s in store for the future of smart farming

As North American agtech companies strive to improve production and reduce waste by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, TYM is also committed to incorporating smart technology into our tractors. TYM is at the forefront of the agricultural industry's technological revolution. With our commitment to innovation, we have developed the next generation of TYM tractors to achieve labor and cost-saving autonomous operations. These tractors will leverage advanced agricultural technologies, such as telematics and GPS-assisted driving, to maximize productivity while minimizing human effort.

At TYM, we are firm believers in the transformative power of technology, particularly in the field of agriculture. Already, AI, along with data and other technological advances, has revolutionized the way we approach farming. With an increasing number of businesses utilizing AI and machine learning to provide more intelligent and sustainable solutions, there is no doubt that AI will continue to play a significant role in the future of agriculture. The possibilities for innovation and impactful change are endless, and we are excited to explore what the future holds at TYM tractors and in our industry.