Fresh Science

Dr Mostafa Rahimi Azghadi – Senior Lecturer, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, James Cook University

Smart robot learns to detect and spray weeds

A smart robotic tool that automatically identifies and kills weeds in their natural environment may reduce the $5billion impact that weeds currently have on Australia’s economy.

James Cook University scientists developed the tool to detect any weed in any environment, from our backyard to large farming properties. For example, it can be used to detect and spray barley grass within a wheat crop without affecting any of the wheat plants.

“Our robotic tool, called AutoWeed uses machine learning to detect specific weeds,” says Dr Mostafa Rahimi. “It can be fitted to existing farm machinery or developed as a standalone robot.”

The robotic tool has already been trialled successfully in five different locations on both pasture and crops, including on pasture in Malanda, QLD, and on crops in Spring Ridge, NSW.

Written by Dr Mostafa Rahimi Azghadi and edited by Econnect Communication.