Integration of Wireless Sensor Networks and Smart UAVs for Precision Viticulture

Precision viticulture (PV) aims to improve the grapevine production efficiency, quality, and profitability, while reducing the environmental impact. The promises of PV are realized only if large areas are monitored with high spatial and temporal resolutions. This paper considers the integration of a wireless sensor network and a smart unmanned aerial vehicle platform. To this end, local variations of factors that influence grape yield and quality are measured and site-specific management practices are applied. This approach achieves real-time, uninterrupted monitoring of the vine growth environment, and on-demand imaging and high-resolution data collection from any specific location, thereby optimizing the production efficiencies and the application of inputs in a cost-effective way.