Seattle-based agricultural robotics firm Carbon Robotics has revealed its 2022 LaserWeeder platform – an autonomous, laserweeding pull-behind robot that attaches to the back of tractors.
According to the company, the new LaserWeeder is a precise, organic, and cost-effective weed control solution for large-scale specialty row crops.
In addition to an updated build, the 2022 LaserWeeder features 30 industrial CO2 lasers, more than three times the lasers in its previous autonomous system. This creates an average weeding capacity of two acres per hour.
Growers who use Carbon Robotics’ implements are seeing up to 80% savings in weed management costs, with a break-even period of two to three years, the developer added.
“We’ve proven the effectiveness of our laserweeding technology and the immense benefits it offers farmers, including healthier crops and soil, decreased herbicide use, and reduced chemical and labour costs,” said Carbon Robotics CEO and founder, Paul Mikesell.
“To best serve farmers’ needs, we’ve adapted the design of our product, but will still leverage our proven laserweeding technology. Our mission has always been to provide farmers with the most effective tools, and the strong demand for LaserWeeders is evidence we’re helping them solve a serious problem.”
Carbon Robotics worked closely with vegetable growers to design the 2022 implement so it integrates into existing farming infrastructure, while covering more ground and solving problems associated with spraying, hand weeding and mechanical weeding.
The robot is designed to be fully adjustable for crop row widths ranging from 60 to 84 inches. Adjustments for transitioning between different crops can be made via a touch-screen without leaving the comfort of the cab. It can also be towed by common row tractors with a three-point hitch.
Like its self-driving predecessor, the 2022 platform features Carbon Robotics’ AI technology. This system enables the robot to instantly identify, target, and eliminate weeds using thermal energy — while rolling. Carbon Robotics’ patented lighting system enables the LaserWeeder to operate day or night in virtually all-weather conditions, with millimetre accuracy.
Carbon Robotics’ 2022 LaserWeeder is already sold out, the company is currently accepting pre-orders for 2023.
