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Australia's agricultural sector is set for a revolution thanks to cutting-edge 'digital twin' technology. Researchers are developing virtual replicas of farms – think of it as a super-detailed video game version – that can predict crop yields, optimise resource use, and even accelerate the development of robotic farming solutions. This breakthrough is being hailed as a 'crucial role' in ensuring future food security, particularly as climate change and other challenges impact our food supply.

The initial focus has been on strawberry farms, with promising results. A recent study, spearheaded by Daeun Choi, an assistant professor of agricultural and biological engineering at UF/IFAS, demonstrates how a realistic digital twin can drastically speed up the development of AI-powered tools. “The study shows that a realistic digital twin can jump-start AI tool development for strawberry farms, enabling faster, more cost-effective robotics innovation,” Choi told Phys.org.

What is a Digital Twin and Why Does it Matter for Aussie Farms?

Essentially, a digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical asset – in this case, a farm. It's fed with real-time data from sensors, drones, and other sources, creating a dynamic model that mirrors the farm’s conditions. This allows researchers and farmers to:

• Simulate different scenarios: What happens to strawberry yields if we have a prolonged drought? How does adjusting irrigation impact fruit quality?
• Optimise resource use: Precisely manage water, fertiliser, and pesticides, reducing waste and environmental impact.
• Accelerate robotics development: Train AI algorithms in a virtual environment, testing and refining robotic solutions before deploying them in the real world – saving time and money.

Beyond Strawberries: The Potential for Broader Agricultural Applications

While the initial study focused on strawberries, the potential of digital twins extends far beyond. Researchers believe this technology can be adapted to a wide range of crops and farming practices across Australia. Imagine digital twins for wheat farms in Western Australia, mango orchards in Queensland, or dairy farms in Victoria. The possibilities are extensive.

“This isn’t just about strawberries,” explains Choi. “The principles and methodologies we’ve developed can be applied to any agricultural setting. It’s about creating a more resilient and efficient food system for Australia and beyond.”

The Future of Farming is Digital

As Australia faces ongoing challenges related to climate change, water scarcity, and labour shortages, innovative technologies like digital twins are becoming increasingly vital. By embracing this technology, Aussie farmers can unlock new levels of productivity, sustainability, and resilience, ensuring a secure and abundant food supply for generations to come. The investment in this technology is an investment in Australia's future.

Want to learn more about the future of agriculture? Stay tuned for our next article on precision farming techniques!