Using depth cameras for biomass estimation - a multi-angle approach

摘要

The multi-angle plant reconstruction obtained from sensors such as Microsoft Kinect creates realistic models. However, a full 3D reconstruction from every angle is not possible at present under field conditions. When an on-the-go measurement is taken,the sensor must be fixed to a vehicle and its best position needs to be determined. The objective of this study was to assess the possibilities of the Microsoft Kinect for Windows vl sensor to quantify the biomass of poplar trees using different anglesfrom a stationary position, in other words, to explore the best location of the sensor with respect to the trees. For this purpose, readings were obtained by placing the sensor at one meter from the tree, comparing four different view angles: top view (0°), 45°, perpendicular (90°) and ground (-45°). Good correlations between dry biomass and calculated plant surface area from measured raw data were found. The comparison of the different view angles revealed that top view showed poorer results due totop leaves occluding lower leaves. However, the other views led to good results. Consequently, the Microsoft Kinect for Windows vl sensor can provide reliable information about crop biomass.