Development of web-based YCPM-UAV interface for early yield prediction of canola crop using UAV multi-sensor data

Abstract

• Development of yellow color index (YCI) for yield estimation at flowering stage • Development of web-based interface (YCPM-UAV) for canola yield prediction using UAVs • Global application capability for UAVs datasets to predict canola yield using YCPM-UAV • Multi-sensor and multi-spectrum data fusion to find most suited indices for canola • Multiple and stepwise regression analysis for selection of most influencing VIs Canola ( Brassica napus L.) is a globally significant oilseed crop, yet accurate yield estimation remains challenging due to the complex and unique nature of the crop, especially at the flowering stage. Traditional field-based yield estimation methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and destructive, necessitating innovative approaches for early and non-destructive yield prediction. The main objective of the study is to develop a novel web-based platform, YCPM-UAV (Yellow Color Prediction Model using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), for early and accurate canola yield estimation using high-resolution multi-sensor datasets acquired through low-altitude UAVs (LA-UAVs). To achieve this objective, a comprehensive two-year field study (2022-2024) was conducted across ten farmers’ fields in different geographical locations. Multisensor data (RGB, multispectral, and thermal) were acquired using UAVs at seven growth stages. Several vegetation indices (VIs), yellow color-based indices, and a thermal index were calculated. Linear, multiple, and stepwise regression analyses were performed to evaluate relationships of remote sensing indices with ground-truth yield data collected from 1200 sampling points. Multiple and stepwise regression analyses indicated that the newly developed Yellow Color Index (YCI) exhibited the strongest correlation with actual canola yield at the flowering stage across both years (Year 1: R 2 = 0.84, RMSE = 39.30 g m⁻²; Year 2: R² = 0.88, RMSE = 31.57 g m⁻²). Based on proposed predictive modeling, the YCPM-UAV web interface was developed, featuring automated data processing and spatial analysis with a testing accuracy of 88%. The YCPM-UAV platform provides farmers, researchers, and policymakers with a timely, user-friendly, and actionable decision-support tool for canola yield estimation at the field scale, contributing to improved crop management and food security. Future studies should incorporate additional canola varieties, irrigated and non-irrigated fields, and deep learning algorithms to further improve model robustness.

Plant phenotyping relevance

UAVマルチセンサー画像からカノーラ収量を推定する指標・回帰モデル・Webプラットフォームを開発し、複数年データで検証しており、植物形質取得・推定が中心である。

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