The future of rice farming just got a little bit brighter with the introduction of the ArvaTec MoonDino, a revolutionary rice paddy robot that is set to transform the way weeding and padding operations are carried out in rice fields. Developed by the Swiss company ArvaTec in collaboration with SUPSI and Italian agtech company ARVAtec, the MoonDino is a game-changer in the field of agritech.
One of the standout features of the MoonDino is its specially designed wheels, which not only allow the robot to move autonomously through the rice fields but also act as weeding tools. This means that the robot can carry out mechanical weeding immediately after sowing, on both dry and submerged land, with the same precision. This is a significant advantage for farmers, as it eliminates the need for manual weeding and ensures that the rice plants are given the best possible start.
But the benefits of the MoonDino don’t stop there. Thanks to its ability to work continuously in the rice field, the robot also helps to prevent the growth of weeds. As the robot moves through the field, the water becomes cloudy, making it difficult for weeds to take hold and thrive. This not only saves farmers time and effort but also reduces the need for herbicides, making rice farming more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The MoonDino is built on a sturdy metal chassis made entirely from lightweight and durable aluminum alloy. With its high torque 4×4 drivetrain, the robot has maximum traction and can maneuver out of even the toughest situations. It uses GNSS RTK guidance and is equipped with multiple sensors for complete safety protection. The robot is weatherproof and operates in all temperatures, ensuring that it can work efficiently in any conditions.
One of the standout features of the MoonDino is its impressive autonomy. With up to 16 hours of battery life in standard conditions, the robot can cover an average of one hectare per day. This means that farmers can rely on the MoonDino to carry out the necessary weeding and padding operations without interruption, saving them time and labor costs.
Another exciting aspect of the MoonDino is its use of solar panels to power its electric motor. The robot is equipped with solar panels that continuously charge its battery, meaning that it can stay in the field continuously without the need for manual charging. In fact, in theory, a fleet of MoonDino robots could even supply energy to a farm when they are not in use for cleaning and weeding rice fields, further enhancing their efficiency and sustainability.
The MoonDino is currently available in Europe and is priced at €49,950 (US $52,810). With its innovative design and advanced features, it is set to revolutionize rice farming and make it more efficient and sustainable than ever before. Farmers can now rely on the MoonDino to carry out weeding and padding operations with precision and ease, saving them time, effort, and money. The future of rice farming has arrived, and it’s called the MoonDino.