1. Agricultural robotics focus on data collection and automation of tasks like picking apples and monitoring crops.
2. Orchard Robotics’ system uses sensing modules and AI to provide precise data on apple crops, improving yield and efficiency.
3. The startup has raised $3.2 million in funding to expand its technology, increase headcount, and bring its product to market.
Agricultural robotics have been around for some time, with systems that perform tasks such as picking apples, killing weeds, and planting trees. The key to these automated systems lies in the data they collect through on-board sensors, providing valuable information for farmers. Orchard Robotics is a startup that is aiming to make automated systems more accessible by offering a sensing module that can attach to existing farm vehicles like tractors.
While many farmers are interested in adopting technologies that can increase yield and help with labor shortages, fully automated robotic systems can be too expensive for some to implement. Orchard Robotics is initially focusing on apple crops, using cameras to capture detailed information about every tree it passes. The data collected is then used by their Orchard OS software, which utilizes AI to create maps of the crops, including the number of buds and fruits on each tree.
Founded at Cornell University in 2022, Orchard Robotics has already conducted successful field testing with farmers and has attracted investor interest. The startup recently announced a $3.2 million seed round led by General Catalyst, with participation from other venture capital firms. The funding will be used to grow the team, further develop the technology, and expand Orchard’s market reach. By providing precise data and mapping capabilities, Orchard Robotics is aiming to revolutionize how farmers monitor and manage their crops using advanced robotics and AI technology.