Category: Agriculture

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Roadshow 2: technologies crucial to food production

Over two intensive days in mid-June, experts from across the Nordic and Baltic regions gathered for the second NTN Roadshow event. The focus was on crop phenotyping, field trials, and precision agriculture-technologies expected to play a crucial role in the future of food production.

The event, which took place on June 11th and 12th, brought together a total of 23 participants representing more than 14 different organizations from four countries in the Nordic–Baltic region. The attendees included a broad mix of researchers, breeders, field staff, infrastructure managers, private companies, and data specialists.

Innovative Technology on the Agenda

The first stop was NIBIO (Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research). Participants received an in-depth introduction to the Centre for Precision Agriculture alongside a range of ongoing research activities. The agenda featured presentations and demonstrations on drone technologies (UAVs), precision fertilizer application, spectroscopy for soil and crop monitoring, as well as long-term field experiments, potato irrigation, and berry production systems.

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) also welcomed the participants. They were introduced to the Norwegian Plant Phenotyping Infrastructure (PheNo), field trial management systems, and drone-based phenotyping. In addition, research on drought tolerance screening and nitrogen-use efficiency was showcased. The program concluded with visits to several ongoing field experiments focusing on drought stress, waterlogging, wheat and oat research, and perennial ryegrass.

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Testbeds Strengthen Regional Preparedness

Digital testbeds play a critical role in boosting the Nordic region’s capacity to develop its own technologies and production systems. By accelerating the innovation and validation of new solutions, they help reduce dependence on imported technology. This, in turn, contributes to greater resilience and competitiveness across the region.

Advanced sensor technology was, at the roadshow event,  highlighted as a concrete example of how these innovations make a real difference; sensors can detect signs of plant stress long before they are visible to the human eye. This gives researchers a unique opportunity to understand how different crop varieties respond to drought and other environmental impacts, directly supporting the development of more sustainable and robust food systems.

Events like this roadshow serve as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. By bringing together researchers, companies, and other key players across national borders, they accelerate the development of new crop varieties – adapted to local conditions and ready to meet the challenges of climate change.

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Exciting demos at Roadshow 4 in Umeå

Roadshow 4 in Umeå was a unique event that highlighted the latest advancements in digitalisation and next-generation technologies shaping the future of forestry. The participants got an inside look at the Arctic Off-Road Robotics Laboratory (AORO) and its state-of-the-art field test infrastructure, purpose-built for research on autonomous off-road vehicles. They also got live, full-scale demonstrations of autonomous forestry technologies in action.

The technical excursion showcased several examples of how digital tools in practice can enhance resource efficiency, enable more informed and easier to use planning systems. It really gave an inspiring outlook to future forest management. It gathered a variety of stakeholders, from researchers, companies and end-users for these solutions. The dialogues and exchange between these sectors are necessary to guide future research and business developments towards applicable solutions for a sustainable bioeconomy.

Did you miss out of the event? At least, you can get a brief feeling of it from the photos and videos:

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Roadshow 4 was a key part of a cutting-edge excursion organized by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), the Swedish cluster of forest technology, and Luleå University of Technology (LTU).

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Roadshow 4: Arctic Off-Road Robotics Laboratory Field Roadshow

Join us for an exclusive roadshow in Umeå – a key part of a cutting-edge excursion organized by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), the Swedish cluster of forest technology, and Luleå University of Technology (LTU). This unique event highlights the latest advancements in digitalisation and next-generation technologies shaping the future of forestry.

Get an inside look at the Arctic Off-Road Robotics Laboratory (AORO) and its state-of-the-art field test infrastructure, purpose-built for research on autonomous off-road vehicles. Witness live, full-scale demonstrations of autonomous forestry technologies in action.

This roadshow is a must-attend for stakeholders engaged in R&D, innovation, and deployment of intelligent autonomous machines in forestry and beyond. Additional forestry solutions and innovations will also be showcased throughout the event.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with leading experts and see the future of autonomous forestry in motion!

 

SIGN UP HERE

Deadline for sign up is prolonged until September 29th

 

Preliminary program

09.00-09.30 Introduction & coffee

09.30-12.00 Demonstrations at different stations

12.00-13.00 Lunch

13.00-15.30 Demonstrations at different stations

15.30-16-00 Wrap Up & coffee

 

Practical information

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CANCELLED Roadshow event 3: Semi-Autonomy in field applied science

Introduction of the first self-propelled seeding platform for variety- and fertilizer testing integrating autonomy against scarcity of labour and at the same time removing static work and hereby improving working environment significantly

Time: 27 August, 2025 (9.30-14.00)
Place: Hushållningssällskapet Östergötland, Vreta Kloster Klostergården,
585 76 Vreta Kloster, Sweden

We warmly invite you to a hands-on field demonstration, showcasing how technology can pave the way for a more efficient, attractive, and sustainable working environment in applied agricultural research.

We want to demonstrate how reducing labour per task – driven by resource scarcity and the need for efficiency – can go hand in hand with scientific progress. We cannot work faster, but we can work smarter through technology. Improved working conditions through automation can help attract and retain skilled field scientists over the long term. We will also present a tool designed to deliver a reliable and efficient platform for variety and fertilizer testing.

What to expect:

• Live field demonstration of the PrecisionPlot Seeder – designed for -accurate, efficient and repeatable plot establishment

• Introduction of the next step in the platform: the PrecisionPlot Sprayer
– a fully autonomous plot sprayer for testing both synthetic and -non-synthetic plant protection products

The future of fieldwork lies in intelligent tools and better conditions. Join us to see how we can move forward – not by running faster, but by working smarter.

Practical information:

  • Deadline for sign up: 20/8
  • How to get there: The easiest way to get to Klostergården is by car, but there are also local buses going to Klostergården from Linköping.
  • The Nordic Testbed Network is offering travel grants for actors in the Nordic and Baltic region. If you are in need of travel support contact sns@slu.se

Preliminary program:

9:30 Coffee
• Presentation of HS Östergötland by -Agnes Hellgren
• Presentation of PrecisionPlot Seeder, from idea to PoC and what is next
• Field -demonstration of PrecisionPlot seeder

12:00 Lunch

12:30 Fully autonomous plot sprayer – the next-generation in field-applied science – post seeding crops

 

Organizers:
HS Östergötland
TS Agro

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Digital event June 19, 10:00-12:00 CEST

Welcome to the Nordic Testbed Network digital event June 19, 10:00-12:00 CEST!
June 19 2025 will be the occasion to meet online to explore questions and challenges surrounding the theme of data. We hope that the network members will be able to attend and look forward to discussing this fascinating topic with you!

The June event will include keynote presentations from Anneleen De Visscher, Flanders Research institute for agriculture, fisheries and food (ILVO); Ted Strandberg, Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE);  and a workshop to kickstart joint applications to open EU calls.
Please answer to the booking to let us know if you are interested!
Do you have updates you also would like to share with other members? Please write to Sofie to book a slot: sofie.p.andersson@slu.se
 
Preliminary agenda
Part I – Strategic Insights:

Member Updates Selected short presentations from members showcasing recent developments.

Guest speakers:
Common European Data Spaces: opportunities and implications for data sharing, innovation, and governance, Anneleen De Visscher, Flanders Research institute for agriculture, fisheries and food (ILVO)

EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED) Cybersecurity Requirements: implications for connected solutions in testbeds and upcoming compliance deadlines, Ted Strandberg, Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE)

 
Part II – Co-Creation Lab:

Introduction to a curated selection of EU calls for proposals: Lars Erik Lindell, SLU Grants Office

Thematic breakout groups: early-stage matchmaking and idea development

 
Would you like an invitation to this event, but haven’t received one? Contact sofie.p.andersson@slu.se
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OPEN CALL for NTN members

SNS and NKJ invite all testbed members to provide ideas for relevant activities which the network may fund.

Photo: Chrissy H/Pixabay

Total available funding is approximately 100.000 SEK. Co-funding is considered to strengthening the application. Project completion is expected by July 31st 2025.

Deadline for application is Oct 25th 2024.

We are looking for activities in line with the core of the network:
• Unite and strengthen testbeds aimed at supporting the digital transformation of the bioeconomy
• Vision 2030: Co-creating sustainable solutions for the digital bioeconomy
• Milestone 1: Increased knowledge sharing within the network and between members and other experts
• Milestone 2: Increased interaction among network members with startups, industry players and end-users
• Milestone 3: Placing sustainability at the centre of the Nordic Testbed Network’s activities

If you are interested, please send the following to tatiana.proisy@analysysmason.com :
• A short description of your idea
• A motivation to why this activity should receive funding
• A budget for the activity

Based on your input, the Nordic Testbed Network steering committee will decide how to allocate the funding. Decision is expected in November 2024.
We look forward to receiving your ideas!

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Physical event: Agtech Sweden and Knowledge hub for the digitization of agriculture

Nordic Testbed Network organises a physical event September 2nd, and UAS Forum Sweden September 3rd and 4th September.

 

2nd will be the occasion to meet again in person and attend to a fascinating study visit at Agtech Sweden and Knowledge hub for the digitization of agriculture. Save the date and prepare to travel to Linköping, Sweden on the 2nd of September for a full day of learning and collaborating!

How about combining NTN study visit with UAS Forum Sweden? Our member Drone Center Sweden is organizing their annual UAS Forum in Västervik on September 3rd and 4th. NTN will book a shuttle from Linköping to UAS Forum for members wishing to participate!  More information and the invitation will be sent before the summer break.

Register here

 

Agenda

10:00
Meeting up at Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
(exact address will be communicated next week)
 
12:00
Lunch
Linköping University
13:00
Transport to the testbed Klostergården
Presentation of the Autonomous Plot Seeder project, Morten Nygaard, TS-Agro (Denmark)
15:00
Transport to Vågerstad Farm, innovation and testfarm part of Agtech Sweden
Presentation of Vågerstad Farm (John Deere)
16:00
Transport back to Linköping University
Nordic Testbed Network meet up – all participants are welcome to share information about what is happening at your testbed 
17:30
Networking dinner in Linköping city centre
(exact address will be communicated next week)
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Virtual meeting on Digital Twins: use cases, opportunities, challenges

Virtual meeting June 9 2022 at 10.00-12.00 to learn and share about digital twins.

 

The topic Digital Twins has been highlighted as interesting by several of the  network’s members, spanning areas such as data gathering, data uniformisation, testing, and more. Digital Twins are complex computer models fed with continuous flow of observations from the physical world. They allow a better understanding of past situations, monitor present situations, as well as predict future challenges.

At this virtual meeting you will get the chance to learn from others, as well as sharing your experiences on this topic.

AGENDA
▪ Welcoming our new testbed members, DIGIRAS, SINTEF ACE, AORO, Smart Bioeconomy Testbed

▪ Inspiring examples:
Thomas Geenen, Technology Partnership Lead for Destination Earth
Richard Tiffin, Chief Scientific Officer at Agrimetrics

▪ Panel discussion: Digital Twins, Data, and Modelling, Intelligent organic farming testbed
Liisa Pesonen (Luke)
Maria Nordström (Skogforsk)
Martin Holmberg (RISE)

▪ Workshop: What is needed to support testbed development? Based on the interviews with all existing network members, we will discuss what messages we want to send to policymakers. This will feed into a policy brief being sent to the Nordic Council of Ministers.

More information

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An outreach for co-creation, data sharing and demonstration

Due to minimal traveling caused by Covid-19 in 2020, we invited all testbeds members to provide ideas for relevant activities, which the network could fund. Alovivum was one of the testbeds that was granted funding. Their initiative involved an outreach of the testbed for co-creation, data sharing and demonstration.

 

We got the chance to talk to Henrik Hedlund, contact person for the testbed.

Please tell us more about your testbed – what is the aim of the testbed?

– In focus for the testbed is to further develop and demonstrate intensive horticulture production, using a range of hydroculture platforms for water gardening in farm buildings. In the testbed, we design, install, operate and demonstrate different innovative cultivation platforms for indoor water gardening, using hydroculture, (i e aeroponics, fogponics and hydroponics), efficient LED lighting, optimal climate control, etc.

The testbed is located in a farm building in Gödelöv, Genarp (outside Lund, Sweden) that earlier was used as a cow stable and has a size that is ideal for R&D work and the pilots that are used for testing of indoor, hydroculture cultivation. The testbed is supported with a digital infrastructure (Yggio) that connects different equipment, sensor configurations and cultivation platforms inside the farm building (barn), to assure efficient and flexible data collection and management. This infrastructure is provided by Sensative.

The testbed is setup in a peri-urban context, which means cultivation mainly of fresh, leafy greens in empty farm buildings close to urban areas, with local supply chains, directly linking producers and consumers.

The aim of the testbed is to develop and demonstrate intensive horticulture production, using a range of configurations for water gardening and hydroculture platforms, showing metrics to evaluate and show significant improvements in horticulture, including metrics for efficiency, productivity, sustainability and profitability. In focus has been to establish well-known and standardised measures, derived from different data sources, to be able to consistently provide metrics on the performance of different cultivation methods.

The testbed’s main data structure consists of:

  • monitoring and control of sensors, environment, equipment and plants at the testbed (Gödelöv),
  • collection, surveillance and calculated nodes in the Yggio middleware (provided by Sensative),
  • analysis, metrics and models in data application(s) (greenbeds.com: SDGtoolkit, mutec.cloud, etc),
  • sharing and presentation at web sites (barngreens.com, greenbeds.com, Nordic Testbed Network web site, etc).

The datasets that are generated to address the purpose to evaluate the performance of different cultivation methods, via derived and calculated metrics, can be divided into the following data categories:

  • Environment: outdoor/weather- and indoor conditions, etc,
  • Control: cultivation platforms (water source, root- and shoot systems, climate shell, etc,
  • Plant: fresh- and dry biomass, leaf area, allocation, content, capacity, productivity, efficiency, etc,
  • Resource: electricity, heat, light, water, nutrients, base area; consumption and efficiency, etc.

In a data application (SDGtoolkit, mutec.cloud, CN, Grafana, PowerBI, etc) several operations can be made on the original datasets and time series:

  • detection, classification and checks of errors in data,
  • normalisation of data for more aggregated and generic comparisons,
  • substituting data values and units, given accurate calibrations,
  • baselines for data,
  • statistical analysis on data,
  • mathematical operations on data (e g calculated nodes) to provide derived data and metrics,
  • modelling and simulation of data to evaluate different scenarios, e g upscaling of crop production,
  • modelling to automate collection of equivalent measures, e g leaf area growth as a measure of biomass growth,
  • preparing data to be comparable between different testbeds, scales, measures and units.

 

What benefits does your project offer in the context of digitalisation and bioeconomy?

– The main benefits that we hope to offer as an outcome of the project funded by the Nordic Testbed Network is that this kind of digitalisation and collection of standardised, comparable and sharable data will provide valuable metrics for efficiency, productivity, sustainability and profitability that can be used for baselines and benchmarking of different improvements in cultivation, both for different kind of horticulture production (greenhouse cultivation, indoor, hydroculture cultivation in farm buildings, urban farming, etc) and agriculture applications (outdoor farming of crops in soil)