Carbon Robotics has unveiled the new LaserWeeder, an autonomous, laserweeding pull-behind robot that attaches to the back of tractors. The new LaserWeeder is a weed control solution for large-scale specialty row crops.
In addition to an updated build, the 2022 LaserWeeder features 30 industrial CO2 lasers, more than 3X the lasers in Carbon Robotics’ self-driving Autonomous LaserWeeder, creating an average weeding capacity of two acres per hour. Growers who use Carbon Robotics’ implements are seeing up to 80% savings in weed management costs, with a break-even period of 2-3 years.
AI
The 2022 LaserWeeder, like its self-driving 2021 predecessor, features artificial intelligence technology which enables the robot to instantly identify, target, and eliminate weeds using thermal energy — while rolling. Carbon Robotics’ patented lighting system enables the LaserWeeder to operate day or night in virtually all weather conditions, with millimeter accuracy.
Farmers have long relied on traditional weeding methods including, herbicides, mechanical weeding and hand weeding, though each present challenges. Herbicides can impact the health of the crops, mechanical weeding can damage the plants and hand labor is expensive and challenging to find. Laserweeding is an innovative, reliable and sustainable solution for farmers and has proven to be effective on more than a dozen crops.
Carbon Robotics’ 2022 LaserWeeder is already sold out, with orders from Grimmway Farms, Carzalia Valley Produce, Mercer Ranches, Taylor Farms, Triangle Farms, Terranova Ranch, Bowles Farming Co, Braga Ranch, Duncan Family Farms and Amigo Farms. The company is currently accepting pre-orders for 2023.
