We　Try！VRを使ったりんごの剪定学習支援システム

Summary

In Japan, the agricultural sector is embracing innovation through technology, particularly in the use of VR for apple tree pruning training. The project, led by the city of Hirosaki, JA Tsugaru Hirosaki, and Keio University's SFC Institute, addresses the challenge of passing on expertise to younger generations. The VR system allows for unlimited, easily understandable practice, transcending time and space. By converting real apple trees into CG models, the system enables trainees to virtually observe and understand pruning techniques, enhancing their learning experience. The system is currently under development and is expected to evolve further, potentially expanding to other agricultural practices.

Takeaways

• 🤖 The introduction of robots and IoT is driving innovation in Japan, particularly in smart agriculture.
• 🍏 The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries is focusing on the use of VR for apple selection learning.
• 🕒 The benefits of VR learning include the ability to learn repeatedly across time and space, making it an accessible and clear method.
• 📍 The development of the VR system is taking place in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, known for its apple production.
• 🌳 The selection of branches, known as 'ring selection', is crucial for maintaining the health of apple trees and ensuring a stable harvest of high-quality apples.
• 🤝 The collaboration for the VR system involves Hirosaki City, JA Tugaru Hirosaki, and Keio University's SFC Research Institute.
• 📚 The motivation for using VR for learning selection is to address the challenge of a decreasing number of skilled workers and the limited opportunities for skill transfer.
• 📚 Traditional learning methods involve studying paper-based documents and observing actual selection processes.
• 🎮 The VR system allows for a realistic, interactive learning experience, enabling users to view and interact with apple trees from different perspectives.
• 📈 The VR system uses data from past years to provide a comprehensive understanding of why certain branches were cut and how the tree reacted, teaching basic principles.
• 👥 The system facilitates group learning with one instructor and multiple attendees, regardless of season, and can connect people remotely.
• 💡 JA Tugaru Hirosaki is looking forward to using VR for guidance in selection, which is a daunting task for beginners.
• 🔄 The system allows for repeated practice by moving forward and backward in time within the VR environment, enhancing understanding.
• 🌟 After experiencing the VR system, young people are expected to gain a deeper understanding and confidence in performing actual selection in the field.
• 🚀 The system is currently in development, with further advancements anticipated, including improvements in operability and additional features.
• 🔧 Feedback from users will be crucial in determining the best features and functionalities for the system.
• 🌳 The VR modelization technology could potentially be applied to other agricultural practices such as grape thinning or forest thinning.

Q & A

What is the main innovation being discussed in the script related to agriculture?

The main innovation discussed is the introduction of smart agriculture technologies, particularly the use of VR (Virtual Reality) for apple tree pruning training.

Which government agency is focusing on this innovation in the script?

The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) is focusing on this innovation.

Why is the use of VR for learning apple tree pruning considered beneficial?

VR is beneficial as it allows for learning that transcends time and space, enabling repeated practice and clear understanding of the pruning process.

What is the development stage for the VR system mentioned in the script?

The VR system is currently in the development stage, with further evolution expected in the future.

Which organizations are involved in the development of the VR system for apple tree pruning?

The organizations involved are the city of Hirosaki, JA Tugaru Hirosaki, and the SFC Research Institute of Keio University.

What is the main challenge addressed by using VR for training in apple tree pruning?

The main challenge is the decreasing opportunity for technical succession due to a reduction in skilled practitioners, and the need for more frequent and accessible learning opportunities.

How does the VR system help in understanding the pruning process?

The VR system provides a realistic CG model of the apple tree, allowing users to view the tree from different angles and understand the pruning process through visual data and replays.

What is the advantage of using VR for teaching pruning to multiple students?

The advantage is that one instructor can teach multiple students at the same time, regardless of the season, and even connect with people in remote locations through networking.

How does the VR system help in the practical application of pruning techniques?

The system allows users to experience the pruning process virtually, enabling them to learn and understand the reasons behind certain cuts and techniques, which can later be applied in real-life pruning.

What are the future expectations for the VR system for apple tree pruning?

The expectations are for the system to become more operational and to include necessary functional points for both the instructors and the students, potentially expanding to other agricultural applications such as grape thinning or forest thinning.

What other agricultural applications could potentially benefit from the VR system in the future?

Other potential applications include learning about grape thinning and forest thinning, suggesting the VR system could be a versatile tool for various agricultural training needs.