Robot: HammerHead
Task(s): Modular platform used to perform operations of the whole agrocycle
Development start: 2016
Pricing: €100,000 to €150,000 depending on the implements (US $105,370 to 158,055 according to the exchange rate of 01-11-2023)
Manufacturer:
Description
The robot is a fully electric platform for performing operations of the whole agrocycle. Using its array of plug and play implements it’s possible to reduce the machine stops, improving efficiency and reducing costs. It is equipped with different sensors for autonomous navigation and for ensuring safety. The platform is very user friendly and doesn’t need any pre-defined configuration. The only inputs it needs are the waypoints to reach the field and data about field dimensions. The compact design together with tracks ensures stability and low soil compaction. The avoidance of the gps allows to work also in environment like orchards with anti-hail covers and navigate under tree’s branches.
Drive train type
The rover has only electric motors: two 5 kW motors for the traction system and one 10 kW motor used to power the implements. Two additional electric linear motor are used to move the lifter system.
Characteristics
The platform is equipped with a three point hitch and a traditional PTO capable to rotate at 540 rpm or 1000 rpm. The hitch is capable to raise implements up to 800 kg. The rover provides also electric power outlets which can be used to power tools in the field such as scissors and tree shaking machines.
Navigation system
The navigation can be divided into three different steps:
– Open field: the robot uses the gps signal in order to move from the barn to the field
– In row: inside the orchard it uses only data coming from laser scanner and cameras to navigate inside the orchard
– Change row manoeuvre: once the rover is at end of the row, it performs the change row manoeuvre and moves to the following rows When the rover detects an obstacle, it reduces the speed and eventually stops. An obstacle detection and avoidance algorithm has been developed in order to avoid static obstacles and ensure continuity in operation.
Specifications
| Name/type robot | HammerHead (IT) |
| Dimensions | Width 1.4 m, length 2.5 m, height 0.8 m |
| Turning radius | – |
| Weight | 700 kg |
| Energy source | 24/48 kWh batteries |
| Energy stock/range | 6 hours |
| Driveline | Electric motors |
| Navigation system | Gps, laser scanner, cameras |
| Output capacity | 0.6 hectares per hour |
| Pricing | €100,000 to €150,000 depending on the implements (US $105,370 to 158,055 according to the exchange rate of 01-11-2023) |
| Availability (countries) | Mainly Italy |
| Units operational (total end 2023) | 10 |
