The OptRx crop sensor system measures and records data about a crop in real-time using the reflectance of light shined on the growing crop. Sensors can be mounted on virtually any type of vehicle to collect information while driving through the field. Information collected, including vegetative index, can then be utilized to measure the impact of nutrients, water, disease and other growing conditions on crops.
Using OptRx and a compatible Ag Leader display operators can create a nitrogen prescription that adjusts the rate of application on-the-go. Nitrogen is applied at a rate that maximizes yield potential in all areas of the field while avoiding excessive nitrogen rates common to flat rate applications. This technology allows the operator to put nitrogen where the crop needs it, leading to input cost efficiency as well as less environmental impact.
OptRx shines light on the growing plant, and then reads the light reflected back at the sensor. The data is logged and mapped to be used in further analysis – or for real-time variable rate applications. For example, the sensor tells the applicator to apply less nitrogen on healthy corn plants and more nitrogen on weaker, unhealthy corn plants, according to a calibration specific to that field. OptRx’s patent-pending advanced light-sensing technology is not dependent on ambient light – offering maximum flexibility to be used day or night.
