Monash University’s Laboratory of Motion Generation and Analysis (LMGA) has the mission of solving real world challenges for better industry and society by means of advanced robotic technologies.
Under the leadership of Associate Professor Chao Chen, who also established LMGA, the Victorian university has set forward a technology that could change the face of agritech as it is known – cobots.
“Advanced technologies, including robotics, are on the cusp of revolutionising the farming industry, enhancing efficiency, safety and sustainability,” says Chen.
“Robotics technology plays a pivotal role by providing automated solutions for labour-intensive tasks.”
Cobots can take on physically demanding, repetitive, and labour-intensive jobs, such as lifting heavy ladders or performing strenuous activities, thus reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and fatigue among human workers.
As technology equipped with advanced sensors and sophisticated vision systems, cobots can detect and avoid obstacles and hazards in real-time to prevent accidents and injuries on the farm.
The cobots can perform tasks in hazardous environments, such as handling toxic chemicals including pesticide or fertilisers, or working in extreme weather conditions which are harmful to human workers.
“Agricultural robots, thanks to their advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms, can accurately detect crops, sense their surroundings, execute harvest tasks, apply fertilisers, and manage irrigation, effectively reducing resource waste and boosting crop yields,” Chen says.
“Robots don’t get tired, they can work day and night, and operate in adverse weather optimising farm resource allocation and maximising productivity.
“This not only ensures uninterrupted operations but also minimises human exposure to harsh environments and hazardous machinery.”
Chen says there are several benefits of cobot technology for the future of agricultural work.
The first of these is harvesting and sorting, as cobots can perform these tasks autonomously, ensuring efficient and accurate crop collection.
Cobots can also perform precise seed planting, apply fertilisers, and spray pesticides, which optimises resource usage, minimises environmental impact, and promotes sustainable farming practices.
Another benefit is that cobots can handle physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy objects and moving agricultural equipment, reducing the strain on farm workers and preventing musculoskeletal injuries.
The future integration of cobot technology in the agricultural sector will revolve around several aspects, Chen says.
Technological advancements in robotic design, motion control, sensors, perception, and AI will ensure safer and more efficient operations in unstructured agriculture environment.
Collaborations and partnerships among universities, government agencies, industry associations, plus robot and equipment manufacturers, will promote the widespread adaptation of cobots in agriculture.
Educational outreach among growers, farmers, and relevant workers, such as workshops, training programs, and engaging activities, will accelerate cobots’ applications in agriculture and leverage the technology effectively in the farming practices.
Cobots can assist workers and replace some human labour in repetitive and labour-intensive jobs.
Chen also says cobots will create more professional jobs in farms.
“Embracing the power of robotics enables the farming industry to streamline operations, improve resource utilisation and cultivate a safer working environment,” he says.
“The integration of advanced technology into agricultural practices empowers farmers to elevate productivity, curtail waste, and foster sustainable agricultural systems, ultimately contributing to a safer, more productive, and environmentally conscious farming industry.”