Weeding Robots Current Jobs and Perspectives

PhD Thesis Summary

Abstract

Precision agriculture has revolutionised the way farmers manage their crops, maximising efficiency and minimising environmental impact. This thesis addresses the design and implementation of a device that identifies the corn plant and with the help of artificial intelligence implement a robotic arm that delivers herbicides and in some cases precision lasers.

We will explore the design and control of a precision farming device, from basic principles to the most advanced technologies currently in use. We will analyse the sensorisation tools, control systems and optimisation techniques employed to ensure a more sustainable and profitable agriculture through: precision identification of maize plants and the use of a robotic mechanical arm equipped with two nozzles, one to deliver herbicide and the other to deliver lasers to the weeds surrounding the maize plants. The proposal aims for the expected results to reduce herbicide consumption by 30-50%, validating the feasibility of this scalable and sustainable solution to improve efficiency in agricultural infrastructures.