Agricultural robotics, while not novel, are evolving beyond their initial functions of harvesting and planting to focus more on data collection. Orchard Robotics, a new entity from Seattle, is leveraging this shift by integrating a sensing module onto existing farm machinery, thus facilitating entry into automated systems without the high costs typically associated. This system is particularly aimed at apple farming, with the capability to capture extensive data on crop health and output through high-frequency imaging and AI-driven analysis.
The system cameras can capture up to 100 images a second, recording information about every tree its passes. Then the Orchard OS software utilizes AI to build maps with the data collected. That includes every bud/fruit spotted on every tree, their distribution and even the hue of the apple.
Image: Orchard Robotics
Charlie Wu, the CEO, stated, "Our cameras image trees from bud to bloom to harvest, and use advanced computer vision and machine learning models we've developed to collect precise data about hundreds of millions of fruit." This approach offers a detailed understanding of crop conditions, which is a departure from traditional manual sampling methods.
Despite Orchard Robotics' recent formation at Cornell University in 2022, its technology has already seen field tests and attracted significant investor interest, culminating in a $3.2 million seed funding round led by General Catalyst.
Source: techcrunch.com