LandScan first Agtech digital twin patent

  • September 24, 2024
  • William Payne

Agtech firm LandScan has been granted a patent for an agricultural digital twin. The patent, filed in early 2021, is the first patent granted for an agtech digital twin.

Key features of the patent, US 12,092,625, titled “Precision Site Characterisation Using Digital Twin”, includes high-resolution data analysis, predictive modelling, dynamic adaptation, integration with precision farming tools, and sustainability management.

The patent envisages use of data from multiple sources, including satellite imagery, drones, and ground sensors, the digital twin provides a high-resolution analysis of the site. The digital twin allows for predictive modelling of various farming scenarios, including different planting, irrigation, and fertilisation strategies. As conditions change over time due to weather or other environmental factors, the digital twin adapts to reflect these changes, providing up-to-date information and recommendations for site management. The patented digital twin can be integrated with existing precision farming tools, such as GPS-guided equipment and variable rate technology (VRT), to execute site-specific management practices seamlessly.

According to LandScan, beyond its immediate use in precision site characterisation, digital twin technology has the potential to be applied to other aspects of farming, such as supply chain traceability and understanding the relationship between crop genetics, the growing environment, and management practices.

“We are thrilled to have secured this patent, which solidifies our position as the pioneer in agricultural digital twin technology,” said Dan Rooney, CEO of LandScan. “Our technology for precision site characterisation and analysis will provide unprecedented insights into agricultural environments, helping farmers make more informed decisions, reduce resource use, increase productivity, and provide objective metrics for soil health and sustainability baselining and monitoring.”

Olam Food Ingredients (OFI), a major nut supplier, is an early adopter of LandScan’s technology. “LandScan’s digital twin technology has had a significant and practical impact on our almond production in the US with immediate and measurable ROI, and we are excited about its expansion into our Australian operations in 2025,” said Zac Ellis, OFI Senior Director of Agronomy.

Mars has been working closely with LandScan to integrate digital twin technology into their operations. “Mars is excited to begin working with LandScan’s digital twin technology for the purpose of optimising international cocoa production and providing important soil health sustainability metrics for our supply chain,” said Greg Hocking, VP Global R&D New Innovation Territories at Mars Wrigley.