Ecorobotix – Switzerland’s Ecorobotix system offers a “targeted and precise application” to weeds that is “just the amount needed, exactly where it is needed.” It is a lightweight, fully autonomous drone powered by the sun that will operate all day using solar power and target-spray weeds using a camera vision system and rapidly moving arms to provide a small dose of herbicide. This 100% autonomous unit uses 90% fewer chemicals with less spray drift. Production is scheduled for late 2019.
RIPPA – The University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics has been conducting research in autonomous remote sensing systems and developing innovative robotics and intelligent software for the agriculture community for over a decade. Their latest system is RIPPA™, the “Robot for Intelligent Perception and Precision Application.” RIPPA can perform several different types of field oper- ations. The system uses advanced imaging technology to detect crops, fruit or weeds, and can mechanically remove unwanted plants or spray products on crops, such as apples in an orchard, at a high speed using a directed micro-dose of liquid to control pests and disease.
I am showcasing these products to get you to stop and think about how you are preparing for the future of ag robotics. We’ve all heard the phrase “dealer of tomorrow,” but are the real dealers of tomorrow the ones who seek out this technology and become “the selling and servicing dealers” for these products? I’ve wit- nessed a growth of non-traditional dealers selling precision ag products like agronomy companies/consul- tants, co-ops, etc. over the last 2-3 years. Will ag equipment dealers latch on to ag robotics or let someone else take this business?
There is no better time than now to research what the future holds for the ag equipment industry. When is the last time you checked to see what innovative things are happening at your state university? Have you subscribed to newsletters such as Robotics and Automation News? Or visited international shows like AgriTechnica, Paris International Agricultural Show or others that showcase real innovation? If you haven’t, don’t wait. FYI…AgriTechnica is coming up this November in Hanover, Germany.
iowa DEPARTMENT of LABOR spotlight
Q: A:
I would like to hire a high school student to mow and wash equipment. Will the Department of Labor (DOL) allow this?
A 16-year old may operate a lawn mower if the tractor/mower is less than 20 PTO HP. A 17-year old may also operate a pressure washer with plain water only, since some washing chemicals are considered hazardous.
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