The University of Western Australia (UWA) has joined forces with Perth-based startup Magic Wavelength to bring a revolutionary sensor technology to the agricultural sector. This partnership aims to commercialise an innovative microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) spectrometer, developed by UWA’s Microelectronics Research Group (MRG). Led by Professor Laurie Faraone, the MRG is renowned for its semiconductor expertise and strong ties with the UWA Institute of Agriculture, making it an ideal setting for such Ag-Tech advancements.
The new sensor technology represents a significant leap forward in agricultural monitoring. Traditional spectrometers, which can cost over $100,000 and require laboratory conditions, have limited practical use for everyday farming. In contrast, the UWA-developed sensor is compact, cost-effective, and robust, enabling real-time monitoring of crop health. By analysing the infrared spectrum of a leaf, farmers can instantly assess a plant’s health, detect water stress, or determine if fertiliser is needed. This breakthrough makes pervasive agricultural monitoring accessible to farmers worldwide, potentially transforming how agriculture is practiced globally.
Magic Wavelength, founded by UWA PhD graduate Dr Kevin Fynn, is at the forefront of this technological revolution. The company plans to manufacture and distribute agricultural spectrometer instruments incorporating UWA’s patented technology on a global scale. Dr Fynn, who was supervised by Professor Faraone during his PhD, has already developed a working prototype that matches the performance of commercial laboratory spectrometers in a portable format. The instrument features a simple interface, providing instant feedback on crop health through an intuitive system, making it practical for everyday use across various agricultural applications.
The implications of this technology are vast. For large agricultural operations in developed countries, it offers a more efficient and cost-effective way to monitor crop health. However, the real impact could be felt in regions where advanced agricultural technology has been out of reach. Dr Fynn’s vision is to make this technology available to farmers in Southeast Asia and other developing regions, empowering them with the tools to improve crop yields and sustainability.
The collaboration between UWA and Magic Wavelength is a testament to the University’s commitment to developing practical solutions for global challenges. Proceeds from the commercialisation agreement will be reinvested into future research and teaching of MEMS technology at UWA. This project, which combines two decades of research in MEMS and infrared technology, underscores UWA’s leadership in microelectronics research and its ability to partner with industry to bring innovative solutions to market.
To further accelerate the development, the Microelectronics Research Group and Magic Wavelength have been awarded an Australian Economic Accelerator grant of $462,700 over 12 months. This funding will support the development of a production-ready prototype of the affordable handheld spectrometer, bringing the technology one step closer to widespread adoption.
The technical development team, comprising experts from both UWA and Magic Wavelength, is poised to make significant strides in agricultural technology. With the support of this grant, the team will work towards creating a device that can be hand-held in the field or mounted on drones, offering real-time monitoring of plant, grain, and soil health. This technology has the potential to revolutionise farming practices, making them more efficient, sustainable, and accessible to farmers around the world.
