HortiBot - A Plant Nursing Robot

Main Project Deliverables

1. The HortiBot is capable of passing over several parcels with visible rows autonomously based on a commercial row detection system from Eco-Dan with no use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) which is normally used by UGV's

2. Unskilled workers will be able to operate the basic functions of the HortiBot within one hour of education and by use of a pictogram based operational guide. The basic functions of the HortiBot are as shown in the operational diagram to the right:

3. Report of operational analysis documenting the HortiBot concerning feasibility, operational capacity, and economy

4. All operational data is automatically send to an internet based database

5. The HortiBot kit is a real kit which can be mounted within a few hours and easily be removed again changing the Spider back to its original form.

Work packages

To achieve the goal of the project 4 work packages (WP) have been formulated with the following main deliverables:

WP1 Hardware Modules

All modules can easily be mounted and removed again from the Spider without having coursed irreversible changes. Standard components are used if possible and tailored components are only last resort.

WP2 User Interface

The everyday communication between operator and the HortiBot is simple and easy, and pictogram guides support the operator in the use of the HortiBot.

WP3 Software

The software is based on open source and open standard principles.

WP4 Operational analysis and interpretation

Report detailing the specified usage scenario and elaborating on the technical possibilities, operational constraints and customer demands in organic horticulture. Furthermore requirement specifications including a final quality function deployment matching customer requirements and engineering characteristics.

Revision Nov 07 by Michael Nørremark