Agricultural robots are not a new phenomenon. We have seen systems for harvesting apples and berries, killing weeds, planting trees, transporting produce, and more. However, while these capabilities are understood to be the core capabilities of automation systems, the same is true here for technology in general. So it's all about data. A big part of the value of these products is the amount of actionable information their onboard sensors collect.
In a sense, Orchard Robotics' system eliminates the middleman. That's not to say there isn't still a lot of potential value in automating these tasks amid labor shortages, but the young startup's system could be attached to exciting hardware such as tractors and other agricultural vehicles. Sensing modules lower the barrier to entry.
Many farmers are happy to embrace technology that has the potential to increase yields and fill roles that have been difficult to staff, but fully automated robotic systems are too expensive to begin with. It may not be suitable for you to take the first step.
As the name suggests, Orchard started with a focus on apple crops. His camera system allows him to take up to 100 images per second and records information about every tree he passes. Orchard OS software then utilizes his AI to build a map using the collected data. This includes all the buds and fruits found on all trees, their distribution, and even the shade of the apple.
“Our cameras photograph trees from bud to flowering to harvest, and use advanced computer vision and machine learning models developed by us to collect precise data on hundreds of millions of fruits.” said Charlie Wu, Founder and CEO. “This is a breakthrough from traditional methods that rely on hand-collecting perhaps 100 fruit samples.”
Thanks to the on-board GPS, the maps are created so that farmers have complete visibility into the success of their crops, down to the location and size of the trees, to within inches. The company was founded at Cornell University in 2022. Despite being young, the company has already started testing its technology with farmers. Last season's field tests appear to have been successful enough to spark real investor interest.
The Seattle-based company this week announced a $3.2 million seed round led by General Catalyst. Humba Ventures, Soma Capital, Correlation Ventures, VU Venture Partners and Genius Ventures also participated in the raise, which follows his previously undisclosed $600,000 pre-seed.
The funds will be used to increase employee numbers, research and development, and accelerate Orchard's go-to-market efforts.