PATS-X drones offer a promising solution to combat insect pests without relying on harmful chemicals or causing harm to plants. The innovative technology developed by PATS utilizes a combination of advanced features to identify and eliminate pests effectively.
The initial inspiration for the PATS-X drones came from the co-founder's quest to eliminate annoying mosquitoes disrupting his sleep. This led to the development of a mechanism that proved effective in controlling moths and other pests in large-scale greenhouses.
The primary objective behind PATS is to establish an autonomous and efficient system that minimizes the need for human intervention. To achieve this, the PATS system incorporates two key components: PATS-C and PATS-X.
PATS-C consists of a network of infrared cameras strategically placed throughout the greenhouse, connected to the internet. These cameras track the movement of insects over the crops and employ artificial intelligence algorithms to identify the species based on their size and wingbeat frequency. If an insect is beneficial, such as a bee, it is left undisturbed. However, if a pest is detected, the PATS-X drones are activated.
PATS-X drones, which recharge on wireless docking stations, are deployed when a pest is identified by PATS-C. Guided by the system, the drones swiftly approach the target insect and collide with it at high speed before returning to the docking station. This physical collision not only eliminates the pest directly but also disrupts their flight path.
Interestingly, the sound emitted by the PATS-X drones also plays a crucial role in controlling pests. Research conducted by Dayo Jansen revealed that the drone's noise creates ultrasonic frequencies similar to those produced by bats, natural predators of moths. Some insects perish rapidly upon exposure to the noise, while others become disoriented. To further capitalize on this effect, the drones are equipped with speakers that amplify the sound, rendering the pests unable to navigate their surroundings.
The PATS system has gained traction in Europe, with approximately 250 greenhouses already utilizing PATS-C for insect species tracking and data collection. Meanwhile, PATS-X is undergoing extensive testing and is scheduled for release in the market by the end of 2023.
Dayo Jansen emphasizes the collaborative nature of the project, involving biologists, engineers, and agricultural representatives. Their research focuses on studying the most prevalent greenhouse pest species in Europe, ensuring that the PATS systems can be customized to address specific pest challenges effectively.
Through the integration of advanced technology and interdisciplinary cooperation, PATS aims to revolutionize pest control in agriculture, providing a sustainable and efficient solution to mitigate the damage caused by insect pests.
In addition to its pest control capabilities, the PATS system offers several notable advantages for farmers and greenhouse operators: 1. Environmentally friendly: By utilizing drones and avoiding chemical pesticides, the PATS system provides a more eco-friendly approach to pest control. It reduces the reliance on harmful chemicals that can have detrimental effects on the environment, including non-targeted insects, soil quality, and water sources. 2. Precision targeting: The PATS system's infrared cameras and artificial intelligence technology allow for precise targeting of pests. This accuracy minimizes the chances of mistakenly targeting beneficial insects or causing damage to the plants themselves, ensuring that only pests are eliminated. 3. Enhanced crop yield: Insect pests can significantly impact crop yield and quality. By effectively controlling pests with the PATS system, farmers can mitigate crop damage and potentially increase their overall yield. This technology helps protect the health and productivity of crops, leading to better harvests and improved profitability. 4. Reduced labor requirements: The autonomous nature of the PATS system reduces the need for manual labor in pest control. Farmers can save time and resources that would otherwise be spent on manual inspections, monitoring, and pesticide applications. This automation allows farmers to focus on other essential tasks and optimize their overall operations. 5. Data-driven insights: The PATS-C component of the system collects valuable data on insect species and their numbers. This data can be analyzed and utilized to gain insights into pest patterns, population dynamics, and potential pest-related risks. Such information empowers farmers to make informed decisions regarding pest management strategies and optimize their overall agricultural practices. 6. Potential for scalability: The PATS system's adaptability and scalability make it suitable for various greenhouse sizes and crop types. As the technology evolves and becomes more widely available, it has the potential to be implemented on a larger scale, benefiting agricultural operations of different sizes and locations. Overall, the PATS system offers a novel and effective approach to pest control in agriculture, providing a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides while minimizing crop damage and maximizing yields. With its combination of advanced technology, data-driven insights, and environmentally friendly practices, the PATS system holds promise for revolutionizing pest management in the agricultural industry.
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