- Seattle-based Carbon Robotics has launched its latest 2022 LaserWeeder implement, which is an autonomous, laser-weeding robot that is pulled behind a tractor with a three-point linkage
This new machine is an adaptation of its original self-driving autonomous Laserweeder, and is suitable for precise weed control in large-scale specialty row crops.
In addition to an updated build, the 2022 LaserWeeder features 30 industrial CO2 lasers, which is more than three times the lasers in the self-driving autonomous LaserWeeder.
As a liftable agricultural implement, the 2022 LaserWeeder offers unique benefits, including higher performance. With 30 lasers spanning three crop rows, around 20 feet wide, this model has an average effective weeding capacity of two acres per hour.
The robot is 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.
Carbon Robotics CEO and founder, Paul Mikesell, said: “We’ve proven the effectiveness of our laser weeding technology and the immense benefits it offers farmers, including healthier crops and soil, decreased herbicide use, and reduced chemical and labour costs.
“To best serve farmers’ needs, we’ve adapted the design of our product, but will still leverage our proven laser weeding 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.”
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.
Carbon Robotics worked closely with leading vegetable growers to design the 2022 implement so it integrates effortlessly into existing farming infrastructure while covering more ground and solving problems associated with spraying, hand weeding and mechanical weeding.
This 2022 LaserWeeder, like its self-driving 2021 predecessor, features Carbon Robotics’ sophisticated artificial intelligence technology.
This system enables the robot to instantly identify, target, and eliminate weeds using thermal energy, while on the move. 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, with orders from Grimmway Farms, Carzalia Valley Produce, Mercer Ranches, Taylor Farms, Triangle Farms, Terranova Ranch, Bowles Farming Co, Braga Ranch, Duncan Family Farms and Amigo Farms. The company is currently accepting pre-orders for 2023.
Josh Roberts, president and GM of Triangle Farms in Salinas, Calif, said: “Securing farm labour continues to be increasingly challenging, so we are always looking for ways to automate our processes.
“The LaserWeeder automates one of the most demanding, costly, and time-intensive tasks on the farm: weeding. The implement design is familiar and easy to integrate into daily operations while streamlining weed maintenance, providing consistency that farmers value and rely on to support the growth of our businesses,” he said.
