A team of researchers at the Estonian University of Life Sciences has developed an innovative solution to enhance the energy efficiency of agricultural robots, specifically designed for precision fertilization in blueberry plantations. Led by Olt Jüri, the agrorobotics working group aims to tackle the significant energy consumption challenges faced by electrically driven agricultural robots, particularly in areas lacking access to the electrical grid.
Agricultural robots often experience rapid battery depletion due to increased rolling and traction resistance when operating on uneven terrains, such as milled peat fields. This problem is exacerbated in remote regions where recharging options are limited, leading to potential interruptions in agricultural operations. Recognizing this challenge, Jüri and his team designed a combined energy production station that utilizes biogas, hydrogen, and solar energy, ensuring that the robots can operate continuously without reliance on traditional power sources.
The newly developed energy station features an automated battery exchange system and an electric generator powered by a membrane motor, all mounted on a mobile platform. This allows for seamless energy management and recharging capabilities in the field. “Our primary goal was to determine the energy requirements of the autonomous fertilizing robot during both travel and operational phases,” Jüri explained. This involved measuring the mechanical power needed for the robot’s fertilizer spreading tasks and selecting an accumulator with the appropriate power and capacity.
The research also quantified how far the robot could travel on a single charge and evaluated its traction power efficiency. The findings indicate that not only can the robot operate more effectively, but it can also do so sustainably, leveraging renewable energy sources in the process.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the demand for sustainable farming practices grows, agricultural robots equipped with efficient energy solutions can attract interest from farmers looking to optimize their operations. This technology could lead to reduced operational costs and increased productivity, making it an attractive investment for sectors focused on precision agriculture.
By integrating renewable energy technologies into agricultural robotics, the Estonian University of Life Sciences is paving the way for more sustainable farming practices. This research was published in ‘Environmental and Climate Technologies’, highlighting its relevance to current trends in energy consumption and agricultural innovation. As the sector continues to evolve, solutions like these could play a crucial role in addressing the challenges of modern agriculture.
