DEMETRA
Scheda del progetto
Università degli Studi di Pavia
Dr. Carol Sergenti
Dr. Silvia La Placa
Dr. Alessandro Martinelli
The implementation of simulation and training solutions in the primary agro-industrial sector aims to overcome the typical temporal limitations of agriculture (seasons, day-night cycles, weather conditions) and liberate the agricultural learning process from seasonal dependency. Currently, the use of simulations for training agricultural operators has not yet found widespread applications, although some solutions are being studied for specific activities like grapevine pruning. However, these solutions offer limited engagement for the operator within the virtual environment, compromising realistic perception and training effectiveness. DEMETRA aims to develop an innovative platform for training agricultural operators in a virtual environment, based on human-in-the-loop techniques and characterized by a high level of immersiveness. Operators will be able to move and interact in a virtual environment using advanced technologies such as omnidirectional platforms and haptic interfaces to simulate contact with plants.
Contacts:
Contact person
Marco Carnevale
Email
marco.carnevale@unipv.it
Tel
+39 0382 985258
Primary agriculture currently represents a sector that is not very attractive to professionals with advanced technological skills. Extending techniques like digital twins and virtual environment training to the primary agricultural world is gradually improving the quality of job opportunities offered in the sector, attracting new professional profiles and transforming agricultural activities into high-tech and innovative roles. This process also helps to increase the perceived value of agricultural activities, generating economic benefits that are reflected throughout the sector. Modern precision agriculture techniques serve as a concrete example of this transformation and can be integrated with new products and services that promote a broader and more sustainable technological transition in the agricultural sector.
The proposed innovative solution allows for continuous training of agricultural operators in a virtual environment throughout the year, eliminating seasonal limitations. By integrating immersive virtual reality headsets, haptic gloves, and a multidirectional treadmill, the interaction between the operator and the digital model becomes richer and more realistic. This surpasses conventional simulation techniques, enabling the operator to move freely in an unlimited virtual space while still maintaining a safe physical environment. This complete 360° immersion, combined with haptic interfaces, offers a new paradigm of interaction with advanced tactile and space-time feedback. The platform not only enhances the effectiveness of agricultural training but also represents a significant advancement over current motion control systems, opening new possibilities for technological development in the agricultural sector.
The introduction of the proposed technology aims to transform agricultural operations by enabling continuous and practical training in every season, standardizing processes, and facilitating error correction without compromising productivity or product quality. This improvement promises significant economic benefits by optimizing training and research times while expanding access to training for operators with disabilities and diverse cultural backgrounds. Culturally and technologically, the agricultural business positions itself at the forefront, contributing to the enhancement of agricultural techniques and increasing the perceived value of primary agriculture activities. The platform also allows for the consolidation and transmission of experienced operators' knowledge in a more objective and shareable manner, improving the overall quality of agricultural training.