In the picturesque Dutch tulip fields, a new high-tech hero has emerged to combat disease among the vibrant blooms. Meet Theo, the AI robot farmer who tirelessly works day and night to keep the tulip fields healthy and disease-free.
Theo, named after a retired employee at the WAM Pennings farm, is equipped with cutting-edge technology to check each plant for signs of sickness. Armed with cameras and precision AI models, the robot identifies diseased bulbs with red stripes and swiftly removes them to prevent the spread of the tulip-breaking virus.
With 45 robots now patrolling tulip fields across the Netherlands, farmers like Allan Visser are reaping the benefits of this revolutionary technology. While the robot comes with a hefty price tag of 185,000 euros, Visser believes it’s a worthy investment in protecting the precious tulip fields.
Erik de Jong of H2L Robotics, the company behind the AI robots, explains that the heart of the machine lies in the AI model developed with input from tulip farmers. This knowledge combined with precise GPS technology allows the robots to accurately pinpoint and eliminate diseased flowers.
Theo van der Voort, the retiree who inspired the robot’s name, is impressed by its capabilities, stating, It sees just as much as I see. And indeed, with its AI-driven precision agriculture, Theo is proving to be a game-changer in the fight against tulip diseases.
As the tulip season reaches its peak and tourists flock to witness the breathtaking colors, the AI robot farmer stands as a silent guardian, ensuring the fields remain healthy and vibrant. With its tireless dedication and unmatched efficiency, Theo is reshaping the future of tulip farming in the Netherlands and beyond.
