May 30 2025 - Konrad Konnerth, Konnexio
Quick recap
The meeting covered updates on robotics, automation, and AI projects in agriculture, including presentations on greenhouse inspection systems, strawberry field treatment, and modular automation solutions. Discussions focused on the development of agro-robotics technology, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, collaboration, and adapting to existing conditions in agricultural settings. The session also included announcements about new thematic competitions, international co-innovation opportunities, and progress updates from various companies in the AgTech sector.
Next steps
Summary
Agricultural Robotics and Technology Updates
The May 30th 2025 working group meeting welcomed several new members, including Tara Joden from controlled environment agriculture, William Coble with pending AI technology, Kate Withers from Saywaii drone monitoring company, and Frank Land from Studica robotics who presented their agricultural robotics competition initiatives. The meeting also included Fadi Al Daud, the greenhouse vegetable specialist from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, who will attend future greenhouse-related discussions. The session concluded with Konrad Connor of connexio local preparing to present on their development progress, though the transcript ended before the presentation began.
Adapto System: Modular Automation Solutions
Konrad introduced his company, established in 2003, which specializes in custom engineered automation systems and pre-engineered solutions. He explained the development of the adapto system, a modular and scalable machine capable of achieving 2-second cycle times, which has been used in various industries including automotive, medical device, and energy storage. Konrad also highlighted a soil dispensing machine project, showcasing the system's flexibility and high throughput capabilities, while emphasizing its low maintenance requirements due to pre-built and tested components.
Robotic Systems for Agricultural Inspection
Konrad presented two robotic projects: a greenhouse inspection system and a strawberry field UVC treatment rover. The greenhouse system featured a 15-foot mast with camera capabilities for plant stress inspection, while the strawberry project involved a modified rover with improved steering and suspension for navigating between table posts at night. The team is currently finalizing navigation capabilities and will work with Omafa next week to set the correct UVC dosage for strawberry treatment. Future plans include integrating active suspension and vision cameras for additional capabilities.
Principles of Agricultural Robotics Development
Konrad discussed the differences between industrial automation and robotics, highlighting that robotics often requires more invention than engineering due to its problem-solving nature. He emphasized the importance of simplicity in agricultural robotics, contrasting it with the more complex approaches sometimes taken by engineers. Konrad also explained their company's approach of standardizing and then adapting systems to meet specific needs, while collaborating with experts in various processes. He stressed the value of working with existing conditions rather than requiring extensive modifications, and the importance of developing minimum viable processes that provide value to farmers before expanding functionality.
Advancing Agro-Robotics Collaboration
Konrad discussed the development of agro-robotics technology, highlighting the importance of calibration and collaboration with partners. He emphasized the need for improvements in data handling, navigation, and vision systems, while also seeking input from growers on specific applications. Konrad acknowledged the role of various collaborators, including Greg, Irab, Great Lakes, Bgo, Omafa, and Fancia, in advancing the projects. He expressed interest in forming new partnerships, seeking advisors for IP strategy, and improving sales and marketing efforts.
UV-C Dosage for Strawberry Plants
The meeting focused on discussing UV-C dosage for strawberry plants, where Konrad explained that dosage depends on speed and distance, and they are working on establishing the correct parameters. Dan introduced a question about vision-related applications, which led to a discussion between Konrad and Dhruv about common problems in crop identification and disease scouting.
2024 Competitions and Updates
Garson announced that the 2024 open competition has closed and four new thematic competitions have opened, focusing on broadacre, controlled environment, primary processing, and livestock. He clarified that these competitions support digital agriculture technologies and activities, aligning with the topics discussed by Konrad in the presentation. Bridget mentioned streamlining email communications by moving detailed information to attachments, and Dan confirmed that all participants received the updated emails. No new funding opportunities or upcoming events were announced, and the conversation ended with a reminder to save questions for the round table discussion.
Robotics and AI Innovation Updates
The meeting covered updates on robotics, automation, and AI projects, with a focus on supporting Canadian SMEs and national partnerships. Sandra announced a call for international co-innovation with Singapore, with deadlines in June for registration and expression of interest. Joe shared news about a $2 billion AgTech innovation fund and various robotics projects, including Cipher Robotics' contract with Air New Zealand. Jeff reported positive progress at Haggerty, including a recent robot sale and successful manufacturing of custom spraying units, despite some service issues.
