About Us
Drone Pruning Systems is a startup spun out of the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. Our foundation lies in the expertise of UC Vision, a research group dedicated to computer vision and autonomous robotics for practical, real-world solutions. Our technology was developed through the MBIE-funded "Drones with Tools" project, focusing on enabling UAVs to perform novel, challenging tool-based tasks in dynamic outdoor environments.
Dr Sam Schofield
Research Engineer, University of Canterbury.
Sam's expertise is in visual odometry, which involves estimating camera motion from video. His PhD research specifically tackled this challenge in high scene motion environments, such as near trees swaying in the wind, which is crucial for ensuring the stability and precision of our tool-wielding drones.
LinkedIn
Bradley Scott
PhD student, University of Canterbury.
Bradley's doctoral research develops AI-based methods for advanced scene understanding (including target detection, tracking, and spatial awareness). This work is essential for enabling fully autonomous forestry and vegetation management, with a long-term goal of applying the technology to urban tree pruning.
LinkedIn
Professor Richard Green
Professor, University of Canterbury.
As the leader of UC Computer Vision, Richard's research emphasizes AI for real-time 3D reconstruction and tracking. His interests span across computer vision, applied robotics (land, UAVs, and underwater systems), and projects focused on precision agriculture.
LinkedIn