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.