The agricultural sector is experiencing a significant shift towards autonomous machines that have the potential to revolutionize farming practices. These machines are capable of carrying out tasks from sowing to harvesting, conserving natural resources and soil, and addressing labor shortages. The concept of autonomy in agriculture can be defined as the ability of machines to operate without human intervention.
While some machines are specifically designed as autonomous, others can be modified to possess autonomous capabilities. Existing equipment, such as fertilizer spreaders, serve as the foundation for achieving full autonomy. In the future, autonomous tractors may replace current combinations, utilizing innovative sensor and robotics technologies to enhance efficiency.
Autonomous robots already perform tasks like sowing and weed control, offering significant savings due to their ability to work round-the-clock. Sensor technology, specifically “sensor fusion,” which involves combining data from various sensors, plays a crucial role in their development.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is a game-changer for field robots. AI empowers these machines to understand and interact with their surroundings, enabling them to make decisions based on patterns and structures. However, safety remains a significant challenge when it comes to the operation of autonomous systems. Solutions encompass designing risk-free operational environments and enabling robots to detect and avoid hazards. The legal aspect of autonomous machines is still uncertain, particularly regarding their unattended operation in fields.
Despite the advancements in autonomous fieldwork, human intervention remains essential, especially for complex tasks. While robots may dominate the fields, humans will still be responsible for crop management decisions and programming these systems.
For autonomous systems to gain widespread acceptance, they must prove to be cost-effective. While savings can be achieved in certain areas, there are additional expenses, such as redundant control systems. A clear legal framework and viable business models are crucial for the market success of these autonomous machines.
Agritechnica 2023, scheduled from 12-18 November, will serve as a platform to showcase a wide range of field robots suitable for various crops and tasks. Manufacturers, startups, and universities will present their visions for a highly automated future in agriculture, providing attendees with valuable insights and opportunities to interact with exhibitors.
Sources: Agritechnica 2023, Original press release.