Innovative LIDAR 3D Dynamic Measurement System to estimate fruit-tree leaf area

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Remote Sensing
• Plant Science

Background:

• Accurate geometric characterization of tree crops is crucial for precision agriculture.
• Traditional methods for assessing leaf area can be labor-intensive and destructive.
• Developing non-invasive field measurement techniques is essential for efficient crop management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and evaluate a LIDAR-based 3D Dynamic Measurement System for geometric characterization of tree crops.
• To test the hypothesis of a linear relationship between LIDAR laser impacts and tree leaf area.
• To validate the system's performance in both laboratory and field conditions.

Main Methods:

• Scanning trees from two opposing sides to generate 3D point clouds.
• Registering point clouds to create a comprehensive 3D model.
• Counting the number of impacts from the LIDAR sensor's laser beam on the vegetation.
• Correlating the number of impacts with leaf area measurements.

Main Results:

• The LIDAR-based 3D Dynamic Measurement System successfully captured geometric data of trees.
• A linear relationship was confirmed between the number of LIDAR impacts and tree leaf area.
• The system demonstrated correct operation in laboratory tests with an ornamental tree.
• Field tests in a pear tree orchard validated the system's performance and the established hypothesis.

Conclusions:

• The 3D Dynamic Measurement System is a validated tool for the geometric characterization of tree crops in field conditions.
• The system provides a simple and effective method for estimating tree leaf area.
• This technology opens new research avenues in precision fruit growing and agricultural applications.
• The study confirms the potential of LIDAR technology for non-invasive crop assessment.