Spot weed detection and treatment within a field of view in accordance with machine learning training

Abstract

A weed spot-spraying system is described for carrying out a spot-based weed spraying method based upon a classification value rendered from a sub-field image in accordance with a machine learning-based trained model applied by a processor to the sub-field image. The system includes a camera; a spray nozzle assembly including a spray nozzle; and a processor. The method carried out by the system includes acquiring, by the camera, a full field of view image of a crop floor. The method further includes extracting, from the full field of view image, a sub-field image corresponding to the spray nozzle positioned to provide a spray field extending over a part of the crop floor depicted in the sub-field image; rendering, by the processor in accordance with the machine learning-based trained model, a classification for the sub-field image; and selectively activating the spray nozzle in accordance with the classification for the sub-field image.