The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into agriculture is transforming traditional farming practices, moving from manual labor to automation. In Shouguang, a city in China’s Shandong Province renowned for its vegetable production, the Modern Agricultural Technology Experiment and Demonstration Center has introduced robotic dogs to patrol vegetable greenhouses, effectively replacing human agronomists in routine inspection tasks.
Functionality and Data Collection
These robotic dogs are equipped with advanced sensors and AI capabilities, allowing them to navigate the greenhouse environment autonomously. They monitor various parameters, including temperature, humidity, and light intensity, while also capturing high-resolution images of crops. The collected data is transmitted in real-time to specialists who analyze it to assess crop growth rates and detect early signs of diseases or pest infestations. Utilizing comprehensive databases and AI models, agronomists can develop scientifically grounded recommendations for farmers regarding cultivation techniques and plant protection strategies, thereby optimizing vegetable production processes and increasing yields.
Broader Applications of Robotic Dogs in Shandong Province
The application of robotic dogs in Shandong Province extends beyond agriculture. In October 2024, robotic dogs were tested for waste transportation on Mount Tai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tai’an, Shandong Province. These robots, developed by Unitree Robotics, are industrial-grade quadruped machines capable of carrying nearly 40 kilograms despite their slender limbs. They excel in rough terrain, move steadily on slippery surfaces, climb stairs with ease, and cross obstacles like wooden barriers and platforms up to 40 cm high. Each can carry a maximum load of 120 kg and operate for over four hours on a single charge. Their mission is to relieve human porters from the longstanding challenge of garbage removal on Mount Tai, which saw a record 8.62 million visitors in 2023, generating 24,000 tonnes of waste.
The deployment of robotic dogs in Shandong Province exemplifies the transformative potential of AI and robotics in various sectors, including agriculture and environmental management. In greenhouse farming, these innovations facilitate precise monitoring and data-driven decision-making, leading to optimized cultivation practices and improved yields. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of AI-driven robots is poised to become an integral component of modern agriculture, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
