New Zealand-based agritech company Robotics Plus is returning to FIRA USA 2024 to showcase its groundbreaking multi-purpose autonomous vehicle, Prospr.
First launched at the same event in 2023, Prospr has quickly gained recognition in the agricultural sectors of the United States, Australia, and New Zealand for revolutionizing the way tasks are carried out in orchards and vineyards. Designed with adaptability and efficiency at its core, Prospr addresses a growing global demand for sustainable farming solutions that increase productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
Meeting the Challenge of Sustainable Agriculture
Prospr was developed in response to a critical challenge facing farmers worldwide: how to increase food production sustainably, with reduced inputs and environmental damage. According to Steve Saunders, co-founder and CEO of Robotics Plus, the hybrid vehicle's multi-functional design is the key to meeting this demand. Its modular architecture allows farmers to configure it for various tasks, such as spraying, mowing, or harvesting, making it adaptable to different crop types, formats, and heights. This versatility helps maximize the return on investment (ROI) for farmers, ensuring that Prospr is more than just a seasonal tool—it's a year-round solution for orchards and vineyards.
Efficiency, Sustainability, and Cutting-Edge Technology
Prospr’s most notable feature is its automated smart spraying system, which is powered by a diesel-electric hybrid engine. This technology reduces fuel consumption by up to 70%, contributing to a significant reduction in both emissions and operational costs. The hybrid system also optimizes energy use, ensuring the vehicle operates more sustainably than traditional agricultural machinery. By using fewer inputs and optimizing the application of crop protection products, Prospr directly addresses the growing need for environmentally-friendly agricultural practices.
Prospr’s capabilities go beyond efficiency; it represents a leap forward in automation for orchards and vineyards. Alistair Scarfe, co-founder and engineering director at Robotics Plus, emphasizes that the advanced AI technology behind Prospr helps solve persistent labour shortages while improving operational accuracy, safety, and efficiency. The AI system enables precise navigation in complex environments, thanks to the integration of LiDAR technology and cameras. These tools create detailed 3D maps of the surroundings, allowing Prospr to distinguish between harmless elements like grass and critical obstacles. The vehicle’s collision avoidance system autonomously adjusts its speed, slows down, or stops when necessary, enabling high-speed operation without sacrificing safety.
Intuitive Control and Precision Spraying
One of the most user-friendly aspects of Prospr is its simplified user interface, which allows operators to control multiple machines from a single location. This remote monitoring capability means farmers can track real-time operations, optimize activity planning, and produce detailed reports on completed tasks—all without constant manual intervention. The ability to switch between manual and autonomous modes adds another layer of flexibility to the system, making it easier for operators to manage the vehicle under varying conditions.
In addition to its navigation and user interface, Prospr’s targeted spraying technology offers an advanced solution for crop protection. The vehicle’s tower spray configurations are tailored for specific crops like grapes, apples, and other fruit trees. The AI-driven system dynamically adjusts spray speed and air velocity to ensure precise product application. This precision minimizes waste while ensuring thorough coverage, even on the backs of leaves—leading to more effective protection for crops. This level of accuracy enhances both the quality and yield of the produce, a significant advantage over traditional sprayers.
Future Expansion and Innovation
As Robotics Plus continues to push the boundaries of agricultural robotics, the company plans to introduce new accessories for Prospr, expanding its capabilities even further. With Prospr's focus on sustainability, automation, and efficiency, Robotics Plus aims to demonstrate how innovative technologies can help address some of the most pressing challenges in global agriculture. The company’s ongoing development of intelligent tools for orchard and vineyard operations promises to further optimize farming practices, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for the agricultural sector worldwide.
At FIRA USA 2024, Robotics Plus is not only showcasing the latest advancements in agricultural automation but also emphasizing the critical role that robotics will play in ensuring the long-term viability of food production systems. By reducing inputs, enhancing precision, and improving operational efficiency, Prospr and its AI-driven technology are setting a new standard for sustainable farming practices.
Source: Vinetur