1. Create the block: starting from the app or from the dashboard, the user can create a block. A few initial information is required:
   • fruit type & variety
   • plantation year
   • block size in hectares
   • total number of trees in the block
   • the full bloom date and expected harvest date of the block (this can be continuously updated throughout the season)
2. Collect data: the user goes in the block and opens the app, to start the data collection process. Fruit counting data are collected by taking a picture of a whole tree. Fruit sizing data are collected either by taking pictures of fruits via the app or by measuring apples’ diameters with a Bluetooth caliper.
3. Get the Results : Once the smartphone is connected to the internet, the data gets analyzed and information is provided to the user. The user can check them on the app and on the online dashboard

Data are collected via the Pixofarm app:

• Fruit sizing : fruit sizes are collected by taking pictures of fruits with a smartphone. When taking the pictures, a sticker needs to be placed on the apple as a reference point for an accurate measurement. As an alternative, a Bluetooth caliper can be connected to the phone and be used to collect the data.
• Fruit counting: the number of fruits on trees are counted by taking one picture per tree. No stickers are required in this case. It is important, that the user selects representative trees. On the first tree of each measurement round, the user will be asked to enter the actual number of fruits on that tree (manual count) to calibrate the system.

To calibrate the fruit counting system on the specific situation in your block a full manual count of the first selected tree is required. The system uses this input to understand the ratio of visible to hidden fruits in a picture. This step is very important, since this calibration will affect all further counts.

• Fruit sizing and counting: In these cases, Pixofarm does not need any specific protocol and the user can define their own, based on their needs. The user can decide at the beginning of each data collection round whether to stick to the protocol from the previous round or to amend it.
• Forecast information: To provide forecast information, the Pixofarm algorithm requires about 100 pictures of apples per block as well as about 10 pictures of trees in each measurement round. Fruits must be selected randomly at each measurement round over the whole block. To get the most reliable forecast results, at least 4 measurement rounds need to be performed over the season.

• Fruit sizing and countingService types : Pixofarm doesn’t have a minimum requirement for these functionalities. The users can use it whenever and how often he/she wants.
• Forecast Service type : At least 4 measurement rounds during a season need to be performed for reliable results according to our protocol. They are of course free to take more measurements.

• Fruit counting: data can be collected as soon as the human eye can see the fruits standing at about 2 meters far from the tree.
• Fruit sizing and forecasting information: the data can start being collected when the fruits are around 25mm (ca. 50 - 60 days after the full bloom).

• No, Users can use Pixofarm offline when taking the measurements. But they need to synchronize the data for getting the results

No, the fruits can stay on the trees when taking the pictures.

The results of the analysis are provided after completing each measurement round and are displayed in real- time both on the app and on the Pixofarm online dashboard. An Internet connection is required to get the results.

Pixofarm technology has been trained to have around 95% accuracy. To achieve the highest accuracy levels, the system relies on correct and precise inputs by the user. If the user doesn’t follow the simple protocols when doing measurements, the results can’t be very precise. We are always available to support the users in understanding how to collect the data at their best!

• Pixofarm does not require any specific hardware, but a smartphone, where the app has been installed.
• For fruit sizing, round blue stickers with about 15mm diameter are needed as reference point and they are usually available at print shops. Here a link to an onlineshop.
• BT calipers: If the user wants to use Bluetooth calipers as a measurement tool, they should be identified by the Smartphone as an external keyboard and shouldn’t require any specific app. Here the link to our recommended model.

All smartphones currently on the market have the minimum camera features for taking the

pictures we need.

Please note that a 5years old smartphone, which is barely able to run the most common applications (e.g., WhatsApp or Facebook), will have some issues in supporting the Pixofarmapp.

There are no limitations on the number of users or devices used within a Pixofarm account. Moreover, the same user can be logged into Pixofarm app on multiple devices at the same time.

No, the stickers can be re-used multiple times and should be taken off the fruits after taking thepicture.

The Pixofarm app is available for both iOS and Android. Pixofarm online dashboard is available online and accessible from any browser.

Pixofarm is offering two main packages:

• Monitoring package (Counting + Sizing) : only monitoring information is provided, namely:

  • Fruit size
  • Fruit count
  • Daily growth rate
  • Size class distribution
  • Historical and forecast weather data

The protocol is flexibly defined by the user.

• Forecasting package: on top of monitoring information, also forecasts are provided:

  • Predicted fruit diameter.
  • Production volume
  • Size class distribution

The sampling protocol requires about 100 fruit pictures/block and about 10 trees/block.

• Both packages include:

  • Unlimited number of measurements
  • Unlimited number of users
  • Access to mobile app and the online dashboard

UPL Australia is offering free trial this season.

Growers can sign up for free trial but after 1st April if they want to continue using the tool they will pay fees (A$/hectare).

• Monitoring package (providing status quo information on sizing and counting)
• Forecasting package (also including yield estimation)