Smart Agriculture Systems
Intelligent Horticulture & Robotic Harvesting
Focus: Precision picking and delicate handling for high-value crops.
LocationSmart works with Monash University to bring advanced automation to Australian orchards. Research at Monash’s Laboratory of Motion Generation and Analysis has pioneered robots that can identify, pick, and pack fruit with human-like dexterity.
- Autonomous Harvesting: AI-driven robotic arms capable of picking apples or berries every 7–9 seconds.
- Computer Vision: Advanced sensors that detect ripeness and fruit quality in real-time to minimize waste.
- Labor Solutions: Designed to address seasonal labor shortages while maintaining 24/7 operation during peak harvest.
Broadacre Crops & Autonomous Field Guidance
Focus: Large-scale automation for grains, seeds, and broadacre farming.
In partnership with UNSW Sydney, LocationSmart supports the development of navigation systems for large-scale agricultural machinery. This collaboration focuses on making heavy equipment smarter and more autonomous to improve efficiency across Australia's vast cropping regions.
- Precision Seeding: GPS-guided autonomous tractors and seeders that ensure perfect placement and spacing.
- Path Planning: Algorithms developed at UNSW allow machines to navigate complex terrains and avoid obstacles without human intervention.
- Soil Health: Light-weight autonomous "swarms" that reduce soil compaction compared to traditional heavy machinery.
Integrated Smart Farming Ecosystems
Focus: The "Internet of Things" (IoT) and data-driven decision making.
Modern farming isn't just about robots; it’s about the data that connects them. LocationSmart bridges the research from both UNSW and Monash to create a unified digital ecosystem for the modern grower.
- Aerial & Ground Coordination: Using drones to map crop health and then deploying ground robots to treat specific "stress zones."
- Real-time Analytics: Sensors that monitor soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels to optimize water and fertilizer use.
- Scalable Architecture: A modular system that allows farmers to start with one robot and scale to a full autonomous fleet.