Search
EnglishEnglish

1 solar robot specifically designed for vegetable crops

Australia
Wednesday 02 July 2014

FJ

News Image
The various sensors and cameras of Ladybird analyze a multitude of data and parameters to provide scientific support to culture methods of vegetables.

Called "Ladybird" (Ladybug), the first robot powered by solar energy and specifically designed for vegetable crops was developed by the University of Sydney. Its development required an investment of 1 million AUSD.

It performs tests on a farm in the region of New South Wales (Australia) which grows onions, beetroot and spinach. The robot through its camera and its various sensors collects detailed information (mapping operation, humidity, soil testing, nutrient requirements of plants, pest detection, needs of weeding ...) that will provide valuable assistance to producers.

The operator in which the robot is being tested is not full of praise for the possibilities of the machine. The robot can detect any deficiencies before the onset of symptoms on plants. The robot can also be programmed to go to study  insects 3 hours in the morning, on a particular parcel or several hectares.

source : abc net au