Farming revolutionizes as drones and artificial intelligence take center stage, offering unprecedented advancements.
In the heart of Austria's Mostviertel region, a five-man startup named Drohnen Scan.at is making waves in the world of agriculture and beyond. Founded by Johannes Huber, a technician from Allhartsberg, the startup is leveraging drone technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform various industries.
Huber, who studied agricultural technology during the coronavirus pandemic, saw an opportunity to revolutionize farming practices, particularly in weed control. His vision for Drohnen Scan.at is to utilise drones equipped with 15 kilograms of seed for sowing and fertilizing fields, harnessing soil moisture for plant growth prior to the grain harvest. This innovative approach saves plowing and prevents field drying, offering a more sustainable and efficient method for farmers.
In arable farming, Huber notes that 90% of the herbicides sprayed hit the grain, not the weeds. To address this issue, Drohnen Scan.at employs real-time kinematics (RTK) during precise overflights to create image material from fields. This data is then analysed by AI to identify weed infestations, allowing for targeted herbicide application and reducing waste.
The global herbicide market is estimated at 65 billion euros, making the potential for Drohnen Scan.at's services significant. However, the startup is currently involved in research projects and is seeking investors to further develop and expand its offerings.
Beyond agriculture, Drohnen Scan.at offers astonishing services to customers in various fields. In the construction industry, for example, the startup provides thermography and creates 3D models of buildings to natural size. In forestry, Huber sees great potential for pest detection and precise calculation of wood stock on tree trunks.
The startup has already made a mark in the industry with its innovative drone technology, having developed prize-winning intelligent drone services for agriculture and forestry, energy, and construction industries. However, the outdated aviation laws from the 1970s, according to Huber, present a need for action to fully realise the potential of drone technology in these sectors.
In land transactions, transfers, or negotiations with banks or insurers, data from forestry could provide valuable services, further expanding the scope of Drohnen Scan.at's offerings. As the startup continues to grow and innovate, it is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of agriculture and other industries.
Other industries can benefit from the artificial-intelligence technology used by Drohnen Scan.at, such as construction and forestry. In the construction industry, Drohnen Scan.at offers thermography and creates 3D models of buildings, while in forestry, they see potential for pest detection and precise calculation of wood stock on tree trunks.
