Agricultural robotics have long been recognized for their ability to streamline tasks such as picking fruits and killing weeds. However, the true value of these automated systems lies in their ability to gather data. Orchard Robotics, a young startup, is leading the charge in this space by focusing on data-driven solutions for apple crops.
The startup’s system, equipped with advanced sensors, attaches to existing farm vehicles like tractors, offering farmers a cost-effective solution to automate tasks previously reliant on manual labor. By capturing up to 100 images per second, the system collects detailed information about every tree it passes.
Orchard Robotics’ proprietary software, Orchard OS, utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze the collected data and generate comprehensive maps of the orchard. From bud to harvest, every aspect of the fruit, including its distribution and color, is meticulously recorded.
Founder and CEO Charlie Wu emphasizes the significant leap forward offered by Orchard Robotics’ technology, which surpasses traditional methods reliant on manual sampling. With precise data mapped out using GPS technology, farmers gain invaluable insights into their crops’ health and productivity.
Founded in 2022 at Cornell University, Orchard Robotics has already conducted successful field tests with farmers, prompting significant investor interest. The startup recently announced a $3.2 million seed round, led by General Catalyst, with participation from several other prominent venture capital firms.
The funding will fuel Orchard Robotics’ expansion efforts, including hiring additional talent, further research and development initiatives, and accelerating its go-to-market strategy. As the agricultural industry continues to embrace automation and data-driven solutions, Orchard Robotics stands poised to lead the charge in revolutionizing agricultural data collection and analysis.