Introductory overview: Systems and control methods for operational management support in agricultural production systems. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Mourik, Simon; van der Tol, Rik; Linker, Raphael; Reyes-Lastiri, Daniel; Kootstra, Gert; Koerkamp, Peter Groot; van Henten, Eldert J.
• Is Part Of: Environmental modelling & software. Volume 139(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Modelling -- Observation -- Control -- Precision farming -- Disturbances -- Errors; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Computer simulation -- Periodicals; Digital computer simulation -- Periodicals; Computer software -- Periodicals; Environmental Monitoring -- Periodicals; Computer Simulation -- Periodicals; Environnement -- Surveillance -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Écologie -- Simulation, Méthodes de -- Périodiques; Simulation par ordinateur -- Périodiques; Logiciels -- Périodiques; Computer software; Digital computer simulation; Ecology -- Computer simulation; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.70015118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2021.105031
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-8152

Abstract

Abstract: A challenge in modern farming is to find a sustainable way of achieving sufficient production. Precision in dosage, timing and allocation of water, biocides, fertilizer and other inputs is essential, as are such management actions as harvesting, pruning and weeding. Despite the increasing availability of sensor and actuator technologies, decision-making is still largely left to the farmer. This is creating a strong demand for support in operational management. This paper presents an overview of methods involving the use of technology and data to develop model-based management support and automation for productive and input-efficient farming. For each method, the main advantages and drawbacks relating to typical farm characteristics are discussed and summarized. Three case studies are presented, to illustrate the design steps involved in developing a model, observer and controller. The overall design procedure is summarized in a flowchart, and serves as a basic guide for method selection and model development. Highlights: Observation and control algorithms are essential in operational management support. Each method presented has a unique set of possible advantages and disadvantages. An iterative procedure for method selection and model development is outlined.