THE ANELLO GNSS INS FOR AUTONOMY IN ORCHARDS

The ANELLO GNSS INS has emerged as a game-changing solution for precision agriculture, particularly in orchard management. This case study examines how the ANELLO GNSS INS based on the ANELLO optical gyroscope technology is revolutionizing navigation and autonomous operations in challenging and GPS-denied orchard environments.

BACKGROUND

Orchards present unique challenges for GPS-based inertial navigation systems due to dense tree canopies that can obstruct satellite signals. Traditional GPS systems often struggle to maintain accurate positioning in these environments, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in autonomous agricultural operations.

THE ANELLO GNSS INS SOLUTION

The ANELLO GNSS INS combines advanced optical gyroscope technology with an AI-based sensor fusion
engine to deliver high-accuracy positioning and orientation, even in GPS-denied conditions.

Key features that make the ANELLO GNSS INS ideal for orchard applications include:

  • ANELLO Optical Gyroscope Technology
  • Unaided heading drift of < 0.5°/hr
  • Dual multi-band RTK-capable GNSS engines
  • Fault-tolerant with Triple Redundant Sensors
  • Ethernet and RS-232 Interfaces
  • Accurate positioning for up to 30 minutes in GPS-denied conditions
  • IP68 rating for resistance to dust, water, and chemicals

Fig. 1: ANELLO GNSS INS - The ideal companion for navigation and positioning in Orchards

IMPLEMENTATION IN ORCHARD MANAGEMENT

Autonomous tractors equipped with the ANELLO GNSS INS can navigate precisely through orchard rows, performing tasks such as pruning, spraying, and harvesting with minimal human intervention. The system ability to maintain accurate positioning even under dense canopies ensures consistent performance throughout the orchard.

RESULTS AND BENEFITS

Orchards implementing the ANELLO GNSS INS in their autonomous tractor systems have reported several key benefits:
Improved Accuracy
Precise navigation between tree rows, reducing the risk of damage to trees and equipment.
Increased Efficiency
Autonomous operations can be conducted 24/7, optimizing resource utilization.
Enhanced Safety
Reduced need for human operators in potentially hazardous conditions.
Better Crop Management
Precise and efficient application of inputs (water, fertilizers, pesticides) based on exact positioning data.

TEST DRIVE RESULTS IN ORCHARD

Drive data without ANELLO Tech in Walnut Orchard, Fresno CA
>> 5 metres

Fig. 2: Test Drive Results - ANELLO GNSS INS in Walnut Orchard in Fresno, CA.

Drive data with ANELLO Tech in Walnut Orchard, Fresno CA
< 0.5 metres

CONCLUSION

The ANELLO GNSS INS represents a significant advancement in precision agriculture for orchard management. Its ability to provide accurate navigation in challenging GPS environments makes it an invaluable tool for autonomous operations in orchards, leading to improved efficiency, reduced costs, and more sustainable farming practices overall.