The Future is Here | AI-Powered Precision Spot Sprayer
Can precision spot spraying really cut herbicide use by up to 95%?
That’s the claim behind the Ecorobotix ARA, which we had to see for ourselves.
In doing so, we found ourselves with VCS Agronomy’s Angus Hill and Adam Gibb from AG Agri Services in the Norfolk countryside, where an onion field was poised to be spot-sprayed by the Ecorobotix ARA.
Angus talks to machinery reporter Daniel Hodge about the machine’s capabilities, the crops this machine is designed for, what tractor requirements are needed and future planned enhancements that will bring even further precision.
We also take a closer look at the advanced camera technology behind the machine. Capturing 20 images per second, the system forms a mosaic that allows for 6cm x 6cm spraying accuracy.
Inside the cab, Adam shows us the Ecorobotix terminal, a sophisticated control platform that allows operators to monitor live camera views, adjust settings, and manage multiple crop varieties directly from the seat. including live shots the camera is taking so you can inspect for yourself. As soon as it is set up properly, the “computers take over”.
So, what does this machine mean to your bottom line on high value crops?
Angus provides light on the data captured so far and discusses the added advantages that come with such precision spot spraying, not least the increasing restrictions being made to chemical use on fields.
And the big question: Does this machine replace boom spraying?
Watch until the end for Angus’ verdict.
#farmtech #spraying #precisionfarming #farmmachinery #aimachines
00:00 Intro to Ecorobotix ARA spot sprayer
00:26 Walkaround of the Ecorobotix ARA
01:51 Explanation by Angus Hill of VCS Agronomy
03:42 Tractor requirements
04:28 Ecorobotix terminal inside the cab
06:52 Chemicals conversation
10:15 Who is benefitting from this technology?
12:04 Where to find more information
12:42 Concluding remarks