WTK-Elektronik orchard robot concept

 Research project

 “Development of an autonomous, self-steering vehicle for use in orchards”

in cooperation with the chair of agricultural systems engineering at Dresden University of Technology and Raussendorf Maschinen- und Gerätebau GmbH

 For various applications using interchangeable parts, e.g.

• For applying pesticides to reduce health risks to the fruit farmer
• For mulching tramlines for efficient handling and care of plantations
• For transporting harvest boxes, as a harvester on fruit plantations to noticeably reduce physical effort in plantation work

 WTK-Elektronik’s tasks during project implementation:

• Development and manufacture of modular 32 bit control computer
• Development of control software with:
• Communication with engine controller (EMR2) via CAN interface
• Regulation of the hydraulic drive
• Activation of the mulcher and sprayer
• Control of the entire vehicle by remote control
• Remote control via CAN interface (hardware and software)
• Cable harness for:
• Engine controller (EMR2)
• Sensors (wheel rotational speed, hydraulic pressure and temperature, etc)
• Hydraulic pump (electrically adjusted)
• Battery and starter motor

 Orchard robot parameters:

• Hydrostatic drive
• Diesel engine 45kW
• Dimensions: width 1.25 m, length 2.75 m, weight 2200 kg