Catalyst for Innovative Mechatronics in Agricultural Technology (CIMAT)

Traditionally, scaling up or an increase in performance of machines has been used as a response to the increasing pressure on agricultural and horticultural companies to improve cost efficiency in order to be able to compete internationally. For small-scale businesses that focus on organic farming or specific niches (vegetables, fruit, berries, arboriculture) in the fragmented acreage of Flanders and the Netherlands, this is not an appropriate solution. This project develops conceptual alternatives based on a small semi-autonomous electrically driven vehicle or unit. Each mobile unit forms the basis of a module that combines both electric traction and electric actuation (using an intelligent robot arm) with an application-specific tool for harvesting, sowing, weeding, or hoeing. Scaling up for larger tasks is done via the so-called 'swarm concept'. This concept consists of several similar modules operating together instead of a single large machine. Using "cocreation sessions", the conceptual development of the machines will be in line with and attuned to the expectations of the target group. The project develops technological solutions for agricultural tasks in all target sectors at a high conceptual level and determines both the technical feasibility and the 'business case'. Next, we will implement, demonstrate and validate two carefully selected operations from which we will draw generic conclusions (at sector or task level). The project makes a prototype as a demonstrator. This project wants boost the new generation of small electrically driven system tractors, of which several types are already commercially available but are always focused on task specific applications. The concrete implementation of innovative technology on such a system platform will make it possible to strengthen organic farming and traditional agriculture in terms of sustainability, labour, ergonomics, performance and economy. The project places a strong focus on optimal selection, further development and flexible integration of one or more available platforms into autonomous, efficient and powerful tools that can be widely used on the farm of tomorrow. Optimal flexibility is a must if this is to be a workable alternative to current practice and mechanisation. CIMAT' therefore stands for: Catalyst for Innovative Mechatronics in Agricultural Technology.

Keywords:Smartfarming