SEATTLE, WA - There is no doubt that the rapid advancement of technology has slated the fresh produce industry for unimaginable evolution over the next few years, and Carbon Robotics, an autonomous robotics company, is helping lead the charge.
Recently launching its third-generation autonomous weed elimination robot, Carbon Robotics’ Autonomous Weeder leverages robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and laser technology to target and eliminate weeds in a safe and effective manner. Through the use of this technology, farmers will be able to increase potential ROI by lowering costs, as well as have access to an economical path to organic and regenerative farming.
“AI and deep learning technology are creating efficiencies across a variety of industries, and we’re excited to apply it to agriculture,” said Carbon Robotics CEO and Founder, Paul Mikesell. “Farmers, and others in the global food supply chain, are innovating now more than ever to keep the world fed. Our goal at Carbon Robotics is to create tools that address their most challenging problems, including weed management and elimination.”
Carbon Robotics’ weeder robots use high-powered lasers to eradicate weeds through thermal energy, all while not disturbing the soil. According to a press release, this process offers growers the opportunity to not only use less herbicides, but reduce labor needs as well. The Autonomous Weeder is designed for row crops ranging from 200 acres to 10,000 acres of land, with a single robot able to weed 15–20 acres per day, replacing several deployments of hand weeding crews.
Since its inception in 2018, Carbon Robotics has worked alongside farmers to develop the technology used for its weeders, supporting effective and efficient weed elimination for both conventional and organic growers.
“This is one of the most innovative and valuable technologies that I’ve seen as a farmer,” said James Johnson of Carzalia Farm, who has utilized Carbon Robotics’ technology on his farm. “I expect the robots to go mainstream because of how effectively they address some of farming’s most critical issues, including the overuse of chemicals, process efficiency, and labor. These robots work with a variety of crops, are autonomous and organic. The sky’s the limit.”
Through the use of this technology, farmers will be able to improve the reliability and predictability of costs, crop yield, and other important outcomes of their operations. Already, the robots have undergone beta testing on specialty farms, working on fields with crops including broccoli and onions.
While the company’s 2021 models have already sold out, new models for the 2022 growing season are available for pre-order. Carbon Robotics also offers a leasing option, making the weeders more accessible to smaller farms with less acreage.
To find out more about the company and to implement the Autonomous Weeders in your operations, click here.
As advancements become available across the fresh produce industry, AndNowUKnow will keep you updated with the latest information.
