When does radar offer real added value? 5 benefits for agricultural applications
In many applications, ultrasound is an excellent choice, but there are situations where radar offers real added value. Whether it concerns distance measurements, object detection, or level determination, radar is reliable and versatile.
The technology works in almost all weather conditions, has a large measuring range, and consumes little energy. This makes radar a smart choice for machine builders looking for sustainable and efficient sensor solutions. Below, you can read why radar is being used increasingly often in the agricultural sector.
1. If you want to measure under specific weather conditions and pollution
One of the greatest advantages of radar is its robustness under various weather conditions. Rain, snow, and fog have little impact on performance. Contamination also has hardly any effect because the radar signals have high penetration power; they simply see right through it. This means that such a sensor can be placed behind a protective cover if necessary. For example, if a robot is equipped with a radar sensor to orient itself in a barn, a user can sweep away accumulated dirt much more easily.
2. If you want to look through crops (or other objects)
The penetration capability of radar offers significant advantages. For instance, a radar sensor can measure through obstacles such as crops, making it suitable for measuring the distance to the ground. This is only possible with radar. An additional benefit in this case is that a radar sensor can also register speeds. This makes it possible to accurately monitor movements and anticipate them.
3. If you want to measure long distances
Radar has an enormous range. Radar signals can easily cover kilometers. Everyone is familiar with the radar systems used to detect aircraft or boats at great distances, for example, but smaller radar solutions also achieve long distances.
In addition, radar is suitable for measuring short distances. This has everything to do with the speed of the radar signals: the radar receives a reflected signal at the speed of light. So fast, in fact, that the system must react lightning-fast to keep up with the signals. This means that at very short distances, you have to compromise a little on accuracy. However, with a precision of 2 to 3 millimeters, radar is often suitable even then.
4. If a long lifespan is important to you
A radar sensor has no moving parts. As a result, it is not susceptible to wear and tear and lasts a long time.
5. If you want a battery that lasts for years
The absence of moving parts also results in low power consumption. For example, a battery-powered radar system in a feed silo can easily last ten years.
Integrating radar: where are you?
Radar offers many benefits, but its integration requires attention. Consider technical choices, sensor placement, and regulations that must be complied with. Those who follow these steps correctly get the most out of the technology.
Discover what you need to consider and how to smoothly implement radar in your agro-application. Read further and make your project a success.