Deforestation is a common problem in today’s time. However, at times it is mandatory to cut down trees which might hinder the growth of other trees in that zone. Diseased and infected trees, if not removed tend to spread their infections to the other healthy trees that surround them. The process of selectively removing the trees to improve the growth of other trees is called tree thinning. The value of the trees, relative value increment and the effect of removal on the growth of remaining trees are the factors that are taken into consideration before thinning a tree. To help in this process, a 9th grader from Kerala, Muhammed Adn Nuaman has come up with an AI-based solution and he named it tree thinning scanner. This project which made Nuaman a winner of the National Program for Government Schools: Responsible AI for Youth 2020, is aimed at helping farmers who have large tree farms. “If you scan a tree using this software, it will help you find out if the particular tree should be removed or not”, Says Nuaman.
AI in tree thinning scanner
Build-in Computer Vision domain, the model uses a convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm which has been trained to analyse the images of various parts of a tree. The image of diseased and fit tree parts will be pre-stored in the model through many open-access libraries. When a user uploads an image of a tree, the model displays its name, if it is diseased and required to be removed. The model can also calculate the size of any tree. The height of the tree is important in deciding its removal. The model takes information on the height and girth of the trunk and it calculates the ‘diameter at breast height of the tree.
“The prototype was built using a web application,” told Nuaman. The app can function through mobile phones or laptops. The image of the tree is scanned using a mobile or laptop camera. According to Nuaman, tree thinning is an important but least discussed field. The idea of tree thinning is unknown to most people, therefore he wanted to explore the role of AI in such a field.
Reaching Responsible AI
During the pandemic, when classes were happening online, Nuaman received a call from his chemistry teacher, who told him about Responsible AI. He understood the significance of the opportunity and decided to submit AI-based ideas. “Out of three to four ideas I submitted, the concept of tree thinning scanner was the one which was selected”, stated Nuaman. Among other projects submitted from his school, Nuaman’s project stood out and made it to the national level winners list. This 14-year-old had no idea about the scope of AI before entering responsible AI. But with the training from Intel AI coaches and by learning programming software and algorithm, he gave life to tree thinning scanner. “I researched tree thinning. And after reading a lot about the topic, I came up with an idea for AI application in the field”, said Nuaman while in conversation with INDIAai.
Thoughts about the future
Nuaman believes that in the forthcoming future all sectors will be dominated by AI. He is confident that, even today most of the basic decisions in our life has an influence on AI therefore with the further development of technology, enhancement of software and with scientists in the world working to build new models, Artificial intelligence will command every field. According to Nuaman, “India is a developing country. In future AI will favour the financial growth of the country”. Even though he desires to contribute as much as he can in AI, Nuaman aspires to become an IAS officer. Currently studying in the tenth standard, he is already attending online classes for civil service exam coaching.
Source: indiaai.gov.in
