Phenoliner: A New Field Phenotyping Platform for Grapevine Research

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Biology
• Remote Sensing

Background:

• Grapevine phenotypic data acquisition is challenging due to the plant's perennial nature and size, often relying on destructive or visual methods.
• Existing field phenotyping methods for grapevines are limited by varying light conditions and background interference, impacting data quality.
• Advancements in sensor technologies offer potential for non-destructive phenotypic trait evaluation in field settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Phenoliner, a novel, robust field phenotyping platform for grapevines.
• To enable standardized, high-quality, and geo-referenced sensor data acquisition for grapevine research.
• To overcome limitations of varying light conditions and background noise in grapevine field phenotyping.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Phenoliner, a movable tunnel-based platform adapted from a grape harvester.
• Integration of multiple sensor systems: RGB, Near-Infrared (NIR), and hyperspectral cameras, RTK-GPS, and an orientation sensor.
• Inclusion of an artificial broadband light source and artificial background to ensure consistent illumination and reduce environmental variability.

Main Results:

• The Phenoliner provides a standardized method for acquiring high-quality, geo-referenced sensor data.
• The platform's design ensures independence from external light conditions, mitigating a major challenge in field phenotyping.
• The combination of sensors and controlled lighting allows for detailed, non-destructive assessment of grapevine traits.

Conclusions:

• The Phenoliner represents a significant advancement in grapevine field phenotyping technology.
• This platform facilitates more accurate and reliable data collection for grapevine research, breeding, and management.
• Standardized, non-destructive data acquisition by the Phenoliner supports improved understanding of grapevine biology and stress responses.