FarmWise has partnered with ZeroSixty, a leading experience design and innovation studio, to develop the next generation of their Vulcan HMI interface, designed to connect tractor drivers with FarmWise’s precision weeder. This collaboration aims to create a robust system of controls and connectivity that enhances cultivation precision, data collection, and operational efficiency while ensuring a future-proof platform for ongoing innovation.
ZeroSixty’s design approach was deeply insight-driven, focusing on understanding the unique nature of the HMI relationship and identifying new and emerging behaviors. Founders Thomas Moeller and Kalpesh Rathod spearheaded a comprehensive analysis of user needs and primary use cases. Through extensive prototyping and testing of intricate control scenarios, they aimed to ensure ease of use, flexibility, and operational simplicity. This user-centric approach led to numerous refinements and iterations, validating the design through real-world interactions and continuous optimization.
The development process took the team to remote fields, where they engaged directly with farmers to gather insights and feedback. This hands-on approach resulted in a highly successful companion to the physical equipment, providing a valuable control platform that emphasizes impact. However, designing a new platform for this industry posed significant challenges. The need to manage a wide range of crop types, field configurations, and environmental variables required a deep and comprehensive layer of control specificity. The team aimed to create a hyper-usable UI that allowed operators to access and adjust settings efficiently and intuitively.
The Vulcan precision weeder offers granular control refinements, such as blade opening width, speed, and margins, which could easily overwhelm operators. To address this, ZeroSixty utilized powerful renderings and easy-to-understand imagery, simplifying the complex system into a straightforward user experience. As a result, FarmWise’s first customer operator trainings were remarkably short, with operators achieving complete autonomy in just one day.
ZeroSixty employed a disciplined test-and-learn approach, developing a full end-to-end non-functional prototype early in the process. This allowed the platform to be tested by operators in the field, providing valuable insights into typical and edge-case scenarios, operational priorities, and the natural nuances of using a complex system. These iterative refinement cycles were critical, driving design decisions through data and feedback, resulting in a more informed and strategic solution.
The Vulcan platform leverages AI and machine learning to continually adjust, sense, and analyze real-time crop and cultivation data. This intelligence layer is crucial for maintaining precision and accuracy. Machine learning models detect crops from weeds and beneficial plants, enabling extremely precise weed removal using soil-disrupting blades. FarmWise has amassed one of the largest plant databases, creating significant value for farmers.
The integration of AI and ML into the Vulcan platform has led to a seamless farming operation, harnessing cutting-edge technology for analysis and accuracy. Early data and feedback indicate substantial real-world benefits. Industry stakeholders have expressed their enthusiasm for the new Vulcan generation, highlighting its potential to revolutionize field supervision and productivity monitoring.
Clay Mitchell, Founding Partner at Fall Line Capital, praised the user interface, noting its deep understanding of agriculture and precision weeding. Josh Roberts, Director of Organic Ag Operations at Taylor Farm, envisioned applications beyond guiding tractor drivers, suggesting potential benefits for field supervisors with remote access. Tyler Johnson, Grower at Amigo Farms, lauded the machine’s capabilities, predicting it would become a key asset in his equipment fleet. Larry Santos, Senior Farm Manager of Taylor Farms, affirmed the technology’s proven efficacy, expressing excitement for the new Vulcan generation.
Overall, the collaboration between FarmWise and ZeroSixty has resulted in a groundbreaking platform that integrates advanced technology with practical farming needs, setting a new standard for precision agriculture.
