Improving the Accuracy of Ultrasound-based Canopy Volume Estimation via Correlation Detection Methods

As an important application in precision agriculture, variable-rate spray helps increase yield, reduce cost, and minimize environmental contamination. Canopy volume measurement units are critical sensing components in variable-rate spray systems. Among various sensing techniques (image, Lidar, etc.), ultrasound sensing is a reliable and cost-effective technology that has been widely used in agriculture applications. However, the existing ultrasound-based canopy volume measurement systems are prone to noise and thus less accurate. The project aims to improve the accuracy of ultrasound-based canopy volume measurement by using binary correlation detection methods. Factors affecting the measurement accuracy will be identified and mitigation techniques will be developed. A hardware prototype system will be developed in the project for technology demonstration and performance evaluation.