The Robs4Crops project, a four-year Horizon 2020 initiative, has successfully concluded, advancing sustainable agricultural practices with cutting-edge robotic technology. The collaborative effort brought together 16 partners across eight European countries to develop smart implements, autonomous vehicles, and advanced planning software, streamlining key farming processes while reducing dependence on human labor.
The project included large-scale pilot programs across Europe in diverse settings such as vineyards, arable fields (sugar beets, pumpkins), and apple orchards in Spain, France, Greece and the Netherlands. These pilots demonstrated innovative applications of robotics for tasks like mechanical weeding and precision spraying, highlighting their potential to revolutionize sustainable and efficient farming practices.
Key Success: Advancing Precision Agriculture in Spanish Orchards
In Spain, the Robs4Crops pilot showcased how retrofitted autonomous technologies can revolutionize precision spraying in apple orchards, reducing dependency on chemicals and mitigating labor shortage. Utilizing a New Holland T4 110 tractor retrofitted with advanced components like the AGC Box for autonomous navigation, a multifan sprayer by Teyme, and a cutting-edge perception unit, the pilot achieved dynamic real-time adjustments to fluid delivery, ensuring optimal and targeted spraying. Additional technologies, including a Lidar sensor, Eurecat box, cameras, and smart implements like the Fusebox, contributed to seamless navigation and enhanced performance.
“The pilot progressed smoothly, successfully completing spraying across two key plots,” said David Martin, Research and Development Engineer at Giropoma Costa. “A total of 30 spraying passes were conducted in 2024 alone, combining autonomous drive tests, autonomous spraying tests, positioning system tests and full tests. Additionally, we hosted interactive demonstrations that attracted 30+ participants, providing a platform for hands-on learning, knowledge exchange, and collaboration with members of the broader agricultural community.”
The Spanish pilot successfully tested autonomous spraying across two key fields, Gala Venus (14ha) and Granny Smith (10ha), both featuring 3.8m inter-row spacing. By September 2024, Eurecat confirmed successful autonomous driving, marking a significant milestone in the development and deployment of these technologies. The pilot continues to refine spraying algorithms and engage with potential end-users for valuable feedback, solidifying its contribution to the future of sustainable and efficient orchard management.
Next Steps: Advancing Innovation and Sustainability in Agriculture
Moving forward, Robs4Crops will focus on scaling the adoption of robotic technologies across European farming systems by supporting commercialization and forming partnerships with agricultural stakeholders. Efforts will center on facilitating knowledge exchange, providing training to farmers, and promoting hands-on learning to ensure smooth integration of spraying innovations. Additionally, the project will continue research to refine robotic technologies, enhance sensor capabilities, and explore AI-driven solutions. These actions will ensure the long-term impact of the project by advancing sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible farming practices.
Collaborating Partners
The pilot brought together key partners to deliver its success, including Giropoma Costa Brava S.L., Serrater S.l., Eurecat, Teyme, and the Agricultural University of Athens. These organizations played vital roles in supporting technological innovation, operational deployment, and research insights that contributed to the pilot’s achievements.
For more information on Best Practices and Lessons Learned from the four pilot projects within Robs4Crops, visit: robs4crops.eu/trials.
