London, UK - Kubota Corporation., an agricultural machinery manufacturer, partnership with Pulverizadores Fede S.L., (FEDE), an agricultural machinery manufacturer, has developed The KFAST (Kubota Fede Autonomous Spraying Technology) robot, autonomously applies phytosanitary treatments and offers remote-control guidance. Its structural design and 4×4 traction ensure smooth movement, precise turning, and accurate positioning in narrow specialty crop fields. The sprayer can be equipped with various air systems to meet different plantation needs.
Ongoing treatments are monitored on the Specialty Crops Platform (SCP), Fede’s digital agronomic management tool. KFAST sends alerts for incidents or out-of-range parameters, including empty spraying or diesel tanks, and can autonomously return to the station for refilling. After treatment, all data is registered, ensuring traceability and the information needed to generate the digital farm book.
KFAST will significantly boost productivity and efficiency in plantations, as one operator can manage four robots simultaneously and perform nighttime tasks. It aims to address labor shortages and support generational renewal in agriculture. Additionally, KFAST enhances occupational safety and health by reducing the risk of accidents and minimizing exposure to pesticides.
Upon receiving a work order, Fede’s autonomous sprayer, KFAST, navigates to the designated row to begin treatment. Utilizing AI technology, KFAST delivers high-precision applications through image capture and processing. The robot adjusts spraying in real time with individual nozzle control, ensuring consistent pressure and flow for uniform treatment distribution on each tree.
The KFAST concept significantly reduces pesticide use and soil degradation, aligning with key objectives of the EU Green Deal. Field tests from the LIFE-AIs project show savings of up to 40% in pesticide usage, especially when using variable application maps (VRA). Its design minimizes soil compaction by operating on a single axis with four wheels, thus reducing soil load and movement.
Additionally, KFAST captures real-time data on plantation health, providing valuable insights for agronomic services. Its open system design allows integration with various service providers, including pest detection and yield prediction. Recognized as a Technical Novelty at FIMA 2024, KFAST exemplifies innovation in the agricultural machinery sector for specialty crops.
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