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An Integrated Method for Coding Trees, Measuring Tree Diameter, and Estimating Tree Positions.
Linhao Sun1,2, Luming Fang1,2, Yuhui Weng3
1Key Laboratory of Forestry Intelligent Monitoring and Information Technology Research of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang A & F University, Lin'an 311300, Zhejiang, China.
This study introduces a new, integrated device for tree mensuration, accurately measuring tree diameter at breast height (DBH) and positions using QR codes and UWB technology. The system offers a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative for efficient forest inventory.
Area of Science:
- Forestry
- Remote Sensing
- Measurement Science
Background:
- Accurate tree diameter at breast height (DBH) and positional data are crucial for tree mensuration and forest inventory.
- Traditional methods can be time-consuming and prone to errors, especially with irregular stem shapes.
- Existing technologies for data collection often lack integration, requiring multiple tools and steps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an integrated device for simultaneous tree identification, DBH measurement, and position estimation.
- To design algorithms for accurate DBH measurement using angle sensors, minimizing eccentricity impact.
- To create a positioning algorithm combining ultra-wideband (UWB) and altitude sensors for precise tree location within plots.
Main Methods:
- A novel integrated device utilizing Quick Response (QR) codes for tree identification.
- DBH measurement algorithm employing two angle sensors to reduce stem eccentricity effects.
- Tree positioning algorithm integrating UWB technology (RSSI) and altitude sensors with quadrilateral localization.
- Field testing across ten diverse 10x10m plots with reference measurements using calipers and tapes.
Main Results:
- 100% QR code decode rate with an average response time under two seconds.
- DBH measurements showed a bias of 1.89 mm (1.88%) and RMSE of 5.38 mm (4.53%).
- Tree position estimation yielded biases of -8.55-14.88 cm (x-axis) and -12.07-24.49 cm (y-axis), with RMSEs of 12.94-33.96 cm and 17.78-28.43 cm, respectively.
- Average distance error was 30.06 cm with a standard deviation of 13.53 cm.
Conclusions:
- The developed integrated device accurately measures tree DBH and positions, offering a significant improvement over conventional methods.
- The system is cost-effective, user-friendly, and enhances the efficiency and accuracy of tree mensuration.
- This technology presents a viable and promising alternative for modern forest inventory and research.
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