When we think of agricultural robots, we tend to think of robots that pick crops and spray chemicals. However, SentiV is different in that it is designed to autonomously wander the fields, checking crops for problems.
Created by French robotics startup Meropy, SentiV does away with the traditional rubber tracks and tire-covered wheels used in most agribots.
Instead, it travels on rimless, open-spoke wheels. These are intended to manage uneven terrain and minimize damage as crops migrate.
The user begins by marking the boundary coordinates of the field on the computer dashboard. Then, when SentiV is installed in that field, it utilizes her onboard GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) module to pinpoint its position relative to those boundaries. Then go back and forth across the field, going from one end to the other.
In doing so, two cameras are used to photograph the plant from two perspectives. Look down on the leaf from above and look up on the underside of the leaf from below. The height of the robot can be adjusted according to your needs by simply changing the different size wheels.
Melopy
Images are processed in near real-time by AI-based algorithms. Among other things, users are alerted to the presence and location of problems such as weeds, diseases and pest infestations. It will also notify you if you need more fertilizer or water. You can also get up-to-date information about the current growth stage of your plant.
According to Meropy, the SentiV robot can tip the scales 15 kg (33 lbs) and cover up to 20 hectares (49 acres) per day. A prospective purchaser can register for updates on product availability from the company’s website.
You can see SentiV in action in the video below.
melody sentiment
Source: Meropy
