Weed Management Strategies Employing Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

摘要

Management of weeds is a critical component of contemporary agriculture, significantly impacting both crop productivity and environmental sustainability. Crops and weed compete for the same critical nutrients and contribute to food safety risks even despite the careless use of herbicides which in turn results in populations resistant to herbicides and environmental contaminants. Traditional weed control methods often suffer from inefficiencies and negative ecological and environmental impacts. The transformative potential of robotics and implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture specifically weed management has been examined in this chapter, demonstrating the capacity to offer accurate and environmentally responsible weed detection and management solutions. The integration of deep learning techniques enhances the accuracy of weed identification, addressing significant agricultural challenges. The chapter examines the current landscape of AI integrated with robotic technologies in site-specific weed management (SSWM) with several case studies, identifying critical factors influencing their adoption, including food safety, effectiveness, and sustainability. It also discusses the challenges faced by these technologies, such as the need for robust real-time systems and improved sensor capabilities. This chapter emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and collaboration among stakeholders to leverage AI and robotics, fostering sustainable practices in weed management and enhancing agricultural productivity.