Five field and harvest robots have made it to the finals of the second global Ag Robot of the Year award, organized by Future Farming and World FIRA. These robots have the potential to automate various operations in outdoor grown crops, making them a valuable asset for farmers worldwide.
The finalists were selected by the Future Farming editorial team and a researcher from Wageningen University & Research (WUR), who evaluated 12 candidates based on their performance and innovation. The 12 candidates were chosen from Future Farming’s buyers’ guide, which featured field and harvest robots added between February 2023 and January 2024.
The five finalists are Andela Robot Weeder ARW-912, Digital workbench Tipard 1800, Ekobot WEAI, Tensorfield Agriculture Jetty, and Tortuga AgTech F and G. Each robot brings unique features and capabilities to the table, making it a tough choice for voters.
The Andela Robot Weeder ARW-912 is a fully robotized weeding machine with 12 weeding units and a working width of 9 meters. It uses camera-based image recognition to detect and kill weeds at an early stage, while the soil remains undisturbed. This robot operates on solar panels, runs on tracks, and can be used 24/7.
The Digital workbench Tipard 1800 is an autonomous multi-carrier platform that automates various processes in arable farming and special crop cultivation. It offers modular sub-frame spaces and implement mounting options, providing versatility and adaptability to different farming needs.
The Ekobot WEAI focuses on high-precision weeding in rows of vegetables. It uses mechanical arms and a hoeing system to remove weeds, reducing the need for herbicides and contributing to higher yields. This robot utilizes RTK-gps for navigation and sensor fusion for accurate localization.
The Tensorfield Agriculture Jetty specializes in herbicide-free precision thermal weeding in high-density row crops. It uses computer vision to identify weeds among crops and sprays a micro-dose of organic-approved high-temperature vegetable oil onto the weeds, effectively killing them while preserving the crops.
Lastly, the Tortuga AgTech F and G is primarily designed for harvesting but can also collect data, treat plants with UV-C light, and perform trimming. This robot combines AI, purpose-driven design, and on-the-ground operations to make precise picking decisions and navigate rows with ease.
Voting for the Ag Robot of the Year 2024 is open to the public until February 4th. The winner will not only receive recognition but also a free year subscription to Future Farming and the latest special magazine. The announcement of the winner will take place during the World FIRA event in Toulouse on February 8th.
These field and harvest robots represent the future of agriculture, offering innovative solutions to streamline farming operations and increase efficiency. By automating tasks such as weeding, planting, and harvesting, these robots can help farmers save time, reduce labor costs, and optimize crop yields. The Ag Robot of the Year award highlights the advancements in agricultural technology and encourages further innovation in this field.
As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for food will increase. It is crucial to embrace technological advancements like these robots to ensure sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. The Ag Robot of the Year award not only recognizes the achievements of these robots but also inspires the agricultural community to explore and adopt new technologies for a better future.