Robot: Prospr
Task(s): Multiple tasks
Development start: 2018
Pricing: Between US $230,000 and US $250,000 (€218.270 – €237.250 according to the exchange rate of 01-11-2023)
Manufacturer:
Description
Prospr is a robust and autonomous multi-use hybrid vehicle that increases efficiency across a variety of crop tasks. With its modular architecture, Prospr can rotate multiple tools and attachments across a single vehicle depending on the work of the day. It can be supervised in a fleet of vehicles by a single human operator.
The platform serves as an autonomous implement carrier, capable of doing various tasks in primarily orchards and vineyards. It features four quick release couplings on which a four-fan Q4 sprayer based on Croplands Quantum technology is fitted. The vehicle turns on its rear axle with a minimum headland requirement of 7.1 metres (23 feet) for row-to-row turning. The minimum row spacing is 1.85 metres (6.07 feet).
The pivoting point between the drive unit and the implement allows for optimal adaption to varying soil conditions while the repositioned LiDAR sensors on the front corners of the vehicle offer side views and blind spot detection.
Prospr features a Kohler diesel engine as generator for the electric drivetrain, steering and operation resulting in a claimed fuel reduction of over 70% compared to traditional diesel tractors doing the same job. There are no hydraulics present on the vehicle.
Drive train type
Fully electric, powered by a Tier 4 diesel generator. It has an independent electric 4WD – 50kW/67HP peak output with regenerative braking characteristics.
Navigation system
A combination of vision systems (LiDAR + cameras), for intelligent obstacle detection and avoidance.
Specifications
| Name robot | Prospr |
| Dimensions | 4.9 metres Width : 1.4m Height: 1.6m without sprayer (2.35m with three-fan-sprayer and 3.67m with four-fan-sprayer). |
| Spray tank | 1,514L (400 gallon) |
| Turning radius | The UGV can turn on the spot around the centre of the rear axle |
| Weight | Empty sprayer payload is 600-900kg (1,323-1,984lbs) depending on configuration, 2100-2400kg (4,630-5,291lbs) when tank is full. |
| Energy source | Electric system, powered by a diesel engine |
| Energy stock/range | Approximately 24 hours, based on a single tank of fuel and dependent on operating conditions as well as payload selected. |
| Driveline | Electric |
| Application rate | 180 litre per 2,680 hectare. (19 gallon per 286 acre) |
| Navigation system | A combination of vision systems (LiDAR + cameras) |
| Pricing | Between US $230,000 and US $250,000 (€218.270 – €237.250 according to the exchange rate of 01-11-2023). During the first 1,000 hours of operation, a US $10 fee per operating hour is applicable for support. |
| Availability (countries) | United States, Australia, New Zealand |
| Units operational (total end 2023) | 20, possibly more. |
