project - EIP-AGRI Operational Group
Electrical weeding in bush and cane fruit
Electrical weeding in bush and cane fruit
Objectives
This project will evaluate the potential of Ubiqutek's non-chemical technology to control weeds in bush and cane fruit using electricity. The key advantages of the technology are that it is chemical free, systemically kills the roots and does not disturb the soil. Ubiqutek have just developed a professional hand-weeder and aim to launch a mechanical solution for vegetables in 2019, but neither can be used on bush and cane fruit where there is significant demand for an automated solution.
Objectives
This project will evaluate the potential of Ubiqutek's non-chemical technology to control weeds in bush and cane fruit using electricity. The key advantages of the technology are that it is chemical free, systemically kills the roots and does not disturb the soil. Ubiqutek have just developed a professional hand-weeder and aim to launch a mechanical solution for vegetables in 2019, but neither can be used on bush and cane fruit where there is significant demand for an automated solution
Activities
This project will provide a practical solution for growers by addressing the 3 main concerns of using novel technology in this environment: 1) Long-term efficacy of weed control, addressed by using a structured field trial over 3 years with active participation from the grower, 2) Speed of weed control, addressed by designing a mechanical electrode array prototype suited for this scenario, and 3) Cost, addressed by undertaking a desk study comparing alternative weed control methods.
Activities
This project will provide a practical solution for growers by addressing the 3 main concerns of using novel technology in this environment: 1) Long-term efficacy of weed control, addressed by using a structured field trial over 3 years with active participation from the grower, 2) Speed of weed control, addressed by designing a mechanical electrode array prototype suited for this scenario, and 3) Cost, addressed by undertaking a desk study comparing alternative weed control methods.
Context
The project will be kept as simple as possible with a very practical focus. For the efficacy and cost objectives, there is no development required and these can be performed using existing kit. The project is therefore low risk as the focus is on a structured trial and desk study. For the speed project, there is development required, however, by leveraging as much existing technology as possible and making the focus on integration, the risk is reduced as it will allow a practical design to be built and tested that can then be productised by a manufacturer who has the necessary manufacturing capabilities.
The project will also be managed by an experienced project manager to ensure momentum is maintained and the projects focus on their key aims.
Project details
- Main funding source
- Rural development 2014-2020 for Operational Groups
- Rural Development Programme
- 2014UK06RDRP001 United Kingdom - Rural Development Programme (Regional) - England
Location
- Main geographical location
- Herefordshire, County of
€ 154000
Total budget
Total contributions from EAFRD, national co-financing, additional national financing and other financing.
Resources
Contacts
Project coordinator
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Andrew Diprose
Project coordinator