Dutch agritech startup, Odd.Bot, is gearing up to make a splash in the market with its highly anticipated weeding robot, Maverick. After years of development, the company has secured an additional €2.6 million in funding from Europe through the EIC Accelerator to bring Maverick to market. The autonomous robot is set to be delivered in 2024, with three to four units available for purchase at a price ranging from €90,000 to €120,000, depending on the configuration.
Maverick is designed to tackle the labor-intensive task of weeding with impressive efficiency. The robot is expected to cover approximately one hectare per day and is trained to work with three crops: carrots, onions, and chicory. What sets Maverick apart is its autonomy, as it navigates solely based on vision and follows crop rows during weeding. This means that it can work independently without relying on external navigation signals. Turning at the headlands is achieved through pre-programming, ensuring seamless movement from one crop row to the next.
One interesting feature of Maverick is its periodic reversal during weeding. This allows the robot to inspect the weeding result and provide feedback to the user or Odd.Bot’s technical support service. This feedback can help adjust settings if necessary, ensuring optimal weeding performance.
In terms of design, Maverick boasts a sturdy construction, with a steel frame and aluminum paneling. It measures 205 centimeters in length, 170 centimeters in width, and 155 centimeters in height. Power is supplied by two interchangeable lithium battery packs, providing enough energy for 16 hours of operation. Additionally, the robot can carry four spare batteries for extended use.
Maverick’s efficiency is further enhanced by its ability to accommodate up to three weeding arms, allowing it to simultaneously weed three crop rows. The AI-driven weeding elements pick up weeds in the crop row and place them next to it, preventing regrowth and minimizing the need for manual intervention.
Odd.Bot also plans to offer the AI vision-controlled weeding elements separately under the name Odd.Bot Weader. These elements can be attached to a three-point frame behind a standard tractor, providing an alternative solution for farmers who prefer to retain their existing equipment. Installation is straightforward, following a plug-and-play approach, and each element contains all the necessary components to function.
The introduction of Maverick and Odd.Bot Weader has significant implications for the agriculture industry. By automating the labor-intensive task of weeding, farmers can save valuable time and resources. The efficiency and precision of these robotic solutions can lead to higher crop yields and reduced reliance on herbicides, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.
Odd.Bot’s successful funding round and the imminent launch of Maverick demonstrate the growing interest and investment in agritech solutions. As the demand for efficient and sustainable farming practices continues to rise, innovative technologies like Maverick are poised to revolutionize the industry and help farmers meet the challenges of feeding a growing global population.