Methods and apparatus for precision agriculture operations utilizing real time kinematic global positioning system systems

Abstract

Real time kinematic (RTK) global positioning system (GPS) technology is integrated with precision farming methodologies to provide highly accurate seeding, cultivating, planting and/or harvesting operations. RTK GPS systems are used to control fully or semi-autonomous vehicles in these operations and may allow for precision planting of seeds (e.g., from a seeder equipped with an RTK GPS receiver and related equipment) and/or precision weed removal (e.g., using a vehicle fitted with weed eradication mechanisms such as augers and/or herbicide sprayers). Crop specific fertilizer/pesticide application is also enabled through the use of centimeter-level accurate positioning techniques.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A vehicle, comprising: 
 a precise positioning apparatus configured to provide real-time precise positioning information regarding the location of the vehicle; and    a sensor-controller apparatus configured to detect a target at least in part according to the location of the vehicle.