Markets & Applications

On the homepage we have mentioned that for market segments we will take over the definitions as set by the Industrial Federation of Robots (IFR) for Service Robots.

There are more markets defined by the IFR than we have mentioned on the homepage. Below you will find all the markets mentioned plus a description of the mobile platforms issues in the way we see them plus a possible benefit of use of the HillBird platform.

Agriculture

The IFR doesn’t mention but we see in the Cultivation sub segment (AP11) three different sub segments worth to mention, to know:

  • Agriculture
  • Horticulture
  • Forestry

Agriculture

It is typically a market for 2D applications (in a flat plane). Applications are therefore relatively simple to implement as well as path planning (back and forth movement in adjacent long rows).

Think of applications such as weeding and tillage. 

There are already plenty of successful applications.

HillBird

Once a platform with wheels or tracks can no longer be admitted to the fields, the HillBird platform can provide a solution for carrying out desired actions.

Think about removing weeds and diseases.

Horticulture

Due to the 3D nature, developing applications for horticulture is clearly more complex than for agriculture. There are hardly any successful applications to be observed.

Think of applications such as: thinning, removing diseases, harvesting and pruning.

HillBird

Due to the aim for the most favorable ROI, short cycle times are required. This requires a stable and stiff platform.

An even more favorable ROI can be achieved by executing more applications with one machine. This leans towards the use of industrial robotic arms.

Forestry

There are already heavy vehicles for cutting down trees. These machines present a heavy burden on the terrain.

For more sensitive applications, there are currently no automation solutions available.

For more sensitive applications, think of measuring and marking trees, as well as removing scrub and grass in forests and on heathlands.

HillBird

The HillBird platform can move over obstacles and has six degrees of freedom, allowing the tools mounted on it to remain simple.