Ana Maria Guerrero and Hector Fabio Riascos Castro
Ingenio Pichichí S.A, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
This study aimed to improve the efficiency of sugarcane harvesting at Ingenio Pichichí, maximizing the production of biomass and sucrose while optimizing operational costs and minimizing risks associated with climate and soil variables. The NAX platform was used with satellite imagery and generative algorithms to optimally select harvest plots based on the available biomass and sucrose content. Through artificial intelligence (AI), plots were classified into clusters according to their geographic location, and transportation routes were optimized using a VRP (Vehicle Routing Problem) algorithm, which suggests the most efficient route between farms. Key factors such as climate conditions, accumulated rainfall, and soil type were integrated. Continuous performance monitoring and precise cost management were fundamental to ensuring the study’s success. The NAX platform increased operational efficiency by 15%, achieving a notable reduction in transport times and associated costs. Additionally, it optimized field selection and machinery use by making real-time adjustments, which mitigated climatic risks. The precision in aligning harvest objectives with variable soil and climate conditions resulted in a significant increase in harvested biomass and sucrose. Furthermore, the platform optimized the use of human and material resources, promoting a more efficient, sustainable, and adaptable operation in changing conditions. The implementation of the NAX platform has proven to be a paradigm shift in sugarcane harvest optimization, integrating artificial intelligence and advanced climate and soil analysis to maximize productivity and minimize operational risks. In an increasingly challenging agricultural environment, where sustainability and efficiency are essential, this technology offers a tangible solution to meet the demands of smarter, more resilient production. By adopting these technologies, companies can position themselves at the forefront of future agriculture, enhancing the sustainability of their operations and securing their competitiveness in the global market.