Thomas Unise
Norwegian company Kilter AS has developed the AX-1, an autonomous robot designed to transform weed management in vegetable production through precision herbicide application that targets individual weeds while avoiding crops.
Precision Technology Reducing Herbicide Use
The AX-1 represents a significant departure from traditional blanket spraying methods by employing machine learning to identify and treat only weeds. This targeted approach can reduce herbicide usage by up to 95% compared to conventional methods, making it particularly valuable in regions with strict chemical regulations.
The robot’s precision targeting system applies micro-droplets of herbicide directly to weeds with 6×6 mm accuracy using patented Single Drop Technology (SDT). High-resolution sensors and AI-based deep learning neural networks enable the system to distinguish between crops and weeds in real-time.
Key Benefits and Specifications
The AX-1 offers several advantages for both conventional and organic farming operations:
- Improved crop yield by reducing weed competition
- Avoidance of growth delays caused by broad-spectrum chemicals
- Chemical-free alternative for organic vegetable production
- 24/7 autonomous operation capability
- Lightweight design (260 kg) that prevents soil compaction
- Ability to operate on soft soils shortly after rain
- Efficient 50-liter tank capacity equivalent to 1,000 liters in conventional spraying
- Operational speed of approximately 1 hectare per hour
- Compatibility with standard herbicides and environmentally friendly bio-herbicides
Addressing Agricultural Challenges
Kilter developed the AX-1 to specifically address three primary challenges in modern agriculture:
1. Targeted application: The robot replaces broad spraying methods with precise spot treatments.
2. Chemical management: It maximizes the efficiency of available herbicides through significant reduction in usage.
3. Labor automation: The system automates manual weeding tasks, addressing labor shortages and costs.
Future of Farming
The AX-1 represents Kilter’s vision for a more sustainable agricultural future. The company encourages farmers to transition from traditional practices to an autonomous, data-driven approach to farming. By integrating agronomy with autonomous robotics, Kilter aims to help farmers maintain productivity while reducing environmental impact.
This technology demonstrates how precision agriculture can address multiple challenges simultaneously: reducing chemical use, improving efficiency, and providing solutions for labor shortages in both conventional and organic farming systems.
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