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Robots are conquering the fields: revolution in agriculture starts now!
Scientists at the University of Lübeck are researching autonomous robots for agriculture to efficiently combat docks.
Robots are conquering the fields: revolution in agriculture starts now!
Agriculture in Schleswig-Holstein is currently experiencing turbulent, exciting times in which the use of autonomous robots is increasingly becoming the focus. Scientists at the University of Lübeck are in the process of developing innovative technologies to make cultivation more sustainable and efficient. An autonomous robot used at Gut Rothenhausen near Lübeck specializes in recognizing dock plants and precisely transferring their locations to a database. This technology could be of great value to farmer Philipp Hennig, who is currently struggling with stubborn weeds because they hardly release any nutrients and spread quickly. The old hat of laboriously removing docks by hand could soon be a thing of the past, thanks to new robotic solutions.
One of the most remarkable aspects is that the robot was trained using photos of the dock plants in different growth phases. These preventive measures are necessary in order not to endanger crop yields. Bold steps into the future: The developers are working on a corkscrew that will use digital maps to specifically pull the roots of this weed plant out of the ground. The total technical effort for the computer technology in the robot is estimated at 500 euros. The scientists are optimistic and expect that the robots could be ready for the market in about two years if they find a suitable manufacturer.
New technologies in agriculture
But things are not only happening in the area of weed control. The Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Agriculture is also testing drones on nine farms in the state. These modern helpers could revolutionize field management. An autonomous vehicle that was used in test operations in the Plön district has already convinced numerous farmers of its efficiency. So the future of agricultural work seems bright.
Another exciting trend is “vertical farming”. Innovative approaches such as the strawberry farms of the start-up vGreens from Witten have already made a name for themselves in the industry. Here, strawberries grow under controlled conditions in industrial halls without sunlight and rely on an AI-supported system to regulate temperature, humidity and CO2 content. This technology could not only promote regional production, but also significantly reduce transport costs. However, researchers warn about the potential impact on biodiversity from the increased use of such robots in the fields, which could be worrying for the sustainability of our agriculture.
Innovations at Agritechnica
Another highlight is coming up: ASA Automation will present its solutions for the first time at Agritechnica, the most important agricultural technology trade fair, in Hanover from November 12th to 18th, 2023. Managing director Mario Krämer emphasizes that the use of new technologies in agriculture is essential to meet the increasing demand for food. Two exhibition stands will feature exciting automation solutions. This includes a robot picker cell that has been optimized for handling potato bags.
In addition, a vertical farming concept is presented, which is based on an engineering team from the Fraunhofer Institute and focuses on sustainability and efficiency. The combination of aeroponic irrigation system and the targeted use of robotic labor appears to have the potential to reshape the diet of the world's population in the future. It is clear that there is a lot to do - and the new technologies are bringing a breath of fresh air into the agricultural discussion.
The developments in Schleswig-Holstein, both in the fields and at trade fairs, clearly show that agriculture is facing exciting innovations. How will all this develop in the next few years? Let's stay excited!