Accurate field mapping is the foundation for efficient fully autonomous operations. This lesson demonstrates how to map field boundaries and obstacles using the Agri Assistant App.
Mapping Methods:
The app typically supports several mapping methods:
- RC Mapping: Walk the boundary/obstacle perimeter using the remote controller’s built-in GPS/RTK.
- Aircraft Mapping: Fly the drone along the boundary/obstacle perimeter to record points.
- RTK Handheld Mapper: Use a dedicated high-precision RTK rover for mapping (if available).
- Import: Import existing map files (e.g., KML, SHP, TIFF).
Mapping Boundaries:
- Start Mapping: Open the Agri Assistant App, navigate to the mapping or task planning section, and select „Create New Plot“ or similar.
- Choose Method: Select your preferred mapping method (e.g., „RC Mapping“).
- Name Plot: Give the plot a clear, identifiable name, including area and date is recommended.
- Select Point Type: Ensure „Boundary Point“ is selected.
- Walk & Mark: Walk along the field boundary. At each corner or significant change in direction, stand still and press the „Add Point“ or designated button on the RC/App.
- Point Placement Rules:
- Mark points sequentially around the perimeter.
- Maintain a minimum distance (usually >1 meter) between consecutive points.
- Avoid crossing boundary lines.
- Ensure the marked boundary accurately reflects the operational area.
- Complete Boundary: Once you return near the starting point, press the „Complete“ or „Save“ button. The app will typically close the polygon automatically.
- Editing: If you miss a point or make an error, you can usually add points (adjacent to the last point) or delete the last point(s) sequentially using editing tools in the app.
Mapping Obstacles:
- Select Point Type: After mapping the boundary (or during), select „Obstacle Point“.
- Obstacle Type: Choose the appropriate obstacle type:
- Polygonal Obstacle (Obstacle Area): For irregularly shaped obstacles like tree clusters or buildings. Walk the perimeter and mark points similar to boundary mapping. Ensure the marked area fully encompasses the obstacle, maintaining a safe buffer distance (e.g., 2 meters from tree canopy). Requires at least 3 or 4 points depending on the app.
- Round Obstacle: For single points like poles or isolated trees. Mark the center point and specify a radius in the app, ensuring the radius creates a sufficient safety buffer around the actual obstacle.
- Marking: Walk around the obstacle (maintaining safe distance) and mark points sequentially.
- Complete & Save: Complete the obstacle marking and save. Repeat for all significant obstacles within the field boundary.
- Deleting: Obstacle points can usually be deleted individually or sequentially during the mapping process.
Importing Maps:
- Format: Ensure your existing map file (e.g., GeoTIFF from an RTK mapping drone) is in a compatible format.
- Transfer: Use a compatible USB drive (FAT32 formatted) to transfer the map file to the remote controller.
- Import in App: Navigate to the mapping section in the Agri Assistant App, find the „Import“ function, select the file from the USB drive, and follow the prompts to import and use the data. Using RTK-captured data is recommended for accuracy.
Proper mapping ensures the drone operates safely and effectively within the defined boundaries, avoiding collisions and covering the target area precisely.