Designing Scalable Robotic Systems for Next-Generation Agriculture: A Technological Perspective

This project sits within the context of food security challenges posed by the climate crisis, focusing on enhancing food security in climate-sensitive regions through technological innovation. The escalating impact of climate change on farming necessitates adaptive measures to sustain food production and support small-scale farmers who are particularly vulnerable.

This PhD research aims to tackle these issues by developing agricultural robots that are autonomous, affordable, scalable and built using advanced Industry 4.0 technologies including additive manufacturing / 3D printing.

At the heart of this initiative are three primary objectives. The first is to establish a detailed taxonomic framework for agricultural robots. This framework will serve to guide the research and act as a foundation for future innovations, providing clear guidelines for the creation of scalable (or other) robotic units and systems within the agricultural sector.

Secondly, the research focuses on the design and construction of prototype robotic systems specifically tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers. These prototypes are aimed at reducing dependency on costly, large-scale mechanics by providing cost-effective alternatives that can be scaled to suit smaller operations.

While the primary focus is on the construction of prototype robotic systems, an ancillary objective is to conduct a modest impact assessment, gauging the social, economic, and environmental implications of introducing these systems.

The research places a strong emphasis on innovation, economic sustainability, resource efficiency and the broader social and environmental implications of introducing such technology. Designed with modularity and scalability in mind, the prototypes are intended to offer long-term investment returns, demonstrate significant energy and resource efficiency and exert minimal negative environmental impact.

The social dimensions of technology deployment are also important, with the research aiming to ensure the accessibility and inclusivity of agricultural robotics across communities, thereby facilitating integration where growers seek it, with consideration for the potential shifts in the local job markets.

The envisioned robotic units will be designed to perform a variety of functions including targeted irrigation, nutrient delivery and plant health monitoring, translocating plants and pest control; the functions will aim to replicate and enhance those currently carried out by people. Mobility units equipped to navigate diverse environments, both indoors and outdoors and pest control units with advanced vision systems for identification and environmentally friendly treatment methods are therefore part of the planned outcomes.

These units are expected to operate collaboratively, using a decentralised communication network to optimise task allocation and performance.

Performance metrics will be established to measure efficiency, reliability, and the effectiveness of user interaction with the systems. The ultimate goal is to produce versatile robotic solutions capable of adapting to growers' requirements within various climatic conditions, thereby reinforcing the resilience of agricultural practices.

By combining academic research with practical implementation, this project aims to contribute to sustainable, ethical and inclusive agricultural practices, ensuring food security in the face of climate challenges.