New crop plant algorithms are being developed to expand the ability of robotic machines to control weeds and, in the case of targeted spray technology, address fertilizer needs with pinpoint accuracy.
Verdant Robotics’ Sharpshooter machine is helping vegetable farmers in the desert do both: control weeds at emergence and accurately provide plant fertilizer to crops like broccoli and leafy greens vegetables.
At a product demonstration near Brawley, Calif., the company’s “bullseye aim and apply” technology was showcased on a windy day in emerging broccoli. Rubberized skirts controlled drift of targeted herbicide treatments in gusty winds.
Lights, directional spray turrets, and cameras work in tandem with software algorithms to accurately spray minute amounts of product, allowing the system to be used day or night. Protective skirts prevent spray drift.
The three systems of turrets, cameras and lights are contained on adjustable racks under the covered boom. This allows farmers to work with different bed widths. Full width coverage systems are planned that would allow farmers to treat crops like spinach and cilantro.
Confidence levels in the algorithms allow the pull-behind machines to be used at about 1.4 mph. The goal, according to Chad Yagow, director of digital agronomy with Verdant Robotics, is to increase that speed to 2 mph.
The technology can be programmed and operated with a smart phone or tablet.