
The ANELLO GNSS INS from manufacturer ANELLO Photonics has emerged as a key solution for precision agriculture, particularly in orchard management.
The ANELLO GNSS INS, powered by ANELLO optical gyroscope technology, enhances navigation and autonomous operations in orchards, especially in areas where GPS signals are challenging to maintain.
Orchards present unique difficulties for GPS-based inertial navigation systems due to dense tree canopies that can block satellite signals.
Conventional GPS systems often struggle to provide accurate positioning in these environments, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in autonomous agricultural tasks.
The ANELLO GNSS INS Solution
The ANELLO GNSS INS combines cutting-edge optical gyroscope technology with an AI-based sensor fusion engine. This integration allows the system to deliver precise positioning and orientation, even in GPS-denied conditions.
Key features of the ANELLO GNSS INS that make it particularly well-suited 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
Implementation in Orchard Management
Autonomous tractors equipped with the ANELLO GNSS INS can precisely navigate through orchard rows, performing tasks such as pruning, spraying, and harvesting with minimal human involvement. The system’s ability to maintain accurate positioning even under dense tree canopies ensures consistent performance across the orchard.
Orchards that have integrated the ANELLO GNSS INS into their autonomous tractor systems have reportedly experienced significant benefits:
- Improved Accuracy: Precise navigation between tree rows reduces the risk of damaging both trees and equipment.
- Increased Efficiency: Autonomous operations can occur 24/7, optimizing resource usage.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduced reliance on human operators in potentially hazardous environments.
- Better Crop Management: The system enables the precise application of inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides based on exact positioning data.
Test Drive Results in an Orchard
- Without ANELLO technology in Walnut Orchard, Fresno, CA: Positioning accuracy is typically within 5 meters.
- With ANELLO technology in Walnut Orchard, Fresno, CA: Positioning accuracy improves to under 0.5 meters.
The ANELLO GNSS INS is a key tool for precision agriculture and orchard management. Its capability to deliver precise navigation in GPS-denied environments makes it ideal for autonomous orchard operations, resulting in enhanced efficiency, lower costs, and more sustainable farming practices.