A high-tech laser that can shoot down satellites from space may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but Carbon Robotics has found a subtler use for this powerful technology – weeding. Their LaserWeeder is revolutionizing weed control in agriculture, offering a precise and efficient alternative to manual labor or chemical herbicides.
When you first see the LaserWeeder in action, the first thing that catches your attention is the box of light. It emits a powerful laser beam that precisely targets small weeds, essentially bringing them to a boil. Unlike a laser show at a music festival, these laser beams are invisible to the naked eye, but their effects are undeniable. The laser light heats the water inside the plant, causing cells to burst, proteins to coagulate, and the plant to wither away.
The LaserWeeder is not meant to replace traditional hoeing implements but rather serves its purpose where hoeing is not feasible for weed control. It has been successfully used in spinach fields and can also be used in closely spaced row crops like onions, leeks, or carrots, reducing the need for manual labor.
Carbon Robotics, the company behind the LaserWeeder, is a Seattle-based startup that has been making waves in the agricultural industry since its founding in 2018. With 47 LaserWeeders already in operation in North America, their high-tech solution is gaining traction.
The technology behind the LaserWeeder is impressive. Equipped with two rows of cameras, the machine uses advanced software to identify weeds and precisely target them with laser beams. With 30 lasers across a width of 6 meters, the LaserWeeder can treat up to 200,000 plants per hour. The smaller the weed, the more effective the treatment, and the faster the machine can operate.
The computing power required to operate the LaserWeeder is equivalent to that of 24 Teslas or a top university research institution. To prevent overheating, the machine is equipped with a full-fledged air conditioning system and a water cooling tower for the lasers. The tractor that powers the LaserWeeder must consistently deliver about 100 hp.
In terms of maintenance, the LaserWeeder is nearly maintenance-free. The lasers require a revision after 2,000 operating hours, a service that Carbon Robotics performs in-house.
The LaserWeeder offers several advantages over traditional weed control methods. It minimizes soil disturbance and eliminates the need for chemical herbicides, reducing environmental impact. It also significantly reduces the need for manual labor, saving farmers time and resources. However, the LaserWeeder does come with a high purchase price and requires a powerful tractor for operation.
Overall, the LaserWeeder is a game-changer in the field of weed control. Its precision, efficiency, and environmental benefits make it an attractive option for farmers looking to streamline their operations. As Carbon Robotics continues to innovate and refine their technology, we can expect to see more LaserWeeders in fields across the globe, transforming the way we approach weed control in agriculture.