As part of the AGRINOVA project, OECON GROUP Bulgaria organized two focus groups with key stakeholders to identify and collect innovative Best Practices in Agriculture that support sustainability, efficiency, and digital transformation in the sector.

One of the standout practices presented was Robotic Precision Weeding, developed by Smart Farm Robotix.

This innovative solution involves the development of compact, electric, autonomous robotic platforms equipped with AI-powered plant recognition systems. The robots are designed to perform precision weeding while simultaneously collecting valuable crop monitoring data.

Technology Used

– Electric robotic platform with solar panel support

– Computer vision and AI-based weed recognition

– Multisensor systems measuring temperature, humidity, and vegetation indices

– Autonomous navigation capabilities

Main Objective

To provide an affordable, chemical-free alternative to conventional herbicide use, making advanced agricultural robotics accessible even to smaller farms and diverse terrains.

Benefits

– Reduced dependence on chemical herbicides

– Lower long-term labor and weed management costs

– Reduced emissions through electric operation

– Improved soil health and biodiversity protection

– Enhanced data-driven farm management

Required Skills

Farmers and operators need basic knowledge of robotic operation, troubleshooting, digital farm management, and an understanding of AI and computer vision capabilities and limitations.

By combining artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainable farming practices, Robotic Precision Weeding demonstrates how technology can support a more environmentally friendly and economically resilient agricultural sector.