Are robots the future of farming?

Technology has in many respects changed the face of farming up and down the country, but a new invention could be about to revolutionise the way in which vegetables are produced.

Experts based at the University of Sydney have devised the Ladybird - an intelligent farm robot that's been specifically created with the vegetable farming industry in mind.

It's capable of supporting intelligent software and can carry out farm surveillance off its own accord, as well as mapping, classification and detection.

Robotics Expert Professor Salah Sukkarieh is behind the device and believes it will be crucial in maximising the output of agricultural systems well into the future.

"Ladybird focuses on broad acre agriculture and is solar-electric powered. It has an array of sensors for detecting vegetable growth and pest species, either plant or animal," Professor Sukkarieh commented.

"She also has a robotic arm for the purposes of removing weeds as well as the potential for autonomous harvesting."

The robot is able to travel down one line of vegetables to the next, and using sensors including as lasers and cameras, it is capable of gathering data necessary to farmers.

Whether it's a state-of the art robot like Ladybird or a simple tractor, it's essential to make sure you have business insurance in place at your premises. no matter how advanced the technology is that you have invested in.

This will cover any loss or damage to your property, which could prove expensive to replace without the necessary protection. Make sure your policy offers the full protection you're looking for before signing up.

Professor Sukkarieh believes the Ladybird has the potential to increase both efficiency and yield for farmers and that it could prove an invaluable resource in many years to come.

It will reduce the need for various manual tasks to be carried out and free up farmers' time to be spent on alternative areas of their business.