In the British Columbia Interior, 4AG Robotics is leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence to address labour challenges in the mushroom industry. Sean O'Connor from 4AG Robotics shared with KelownaNow the company's mission to transform mushroom harvesting. The firm identifies labour shortages, stemming from the demanding nature of the work and high turnover rates, as a critical problem for the sector.
The technology developed by 4AG Robotics operates continuously, capable of harvesting, pruning, thinning, weighing, and packaging mushrooms around the clock. O'Connor detailed the function of robotic arms equipped with cameras, utilizing them to assess the readiness of mushrooms for harvesting. This innovation, focusing on optimal harvest times to minimize food waste, was highlighted as a significant advancement.
O'Connor described the intricate process of ensuring the harvested mushrooms meet grocery store standards and the removal of stems as part of their packaging process. He depicted 4AG Robotics as a fusion of artificial intelligence and robotics expertise, with a team dedicated to the design and operation of these robotic systems. The company focuses on the mainstream varieties of white and brown mushrooms, given their substantial share in the global market.
Regarding the financial aspect, O'Connor mentioned a two-year return on investment for farmers implementing this technology, with potential savings in harvesting costs. He emphasized the role of robotics in reducing operational costs and environmental impact in the agricultural sector. The choice of Salmon Arm as the company's base was attributed to its origins and the competitive advantage of being outside major tech talent pools.
Looking ahead, O'Connor expressed optimism about the broader application of robotics across various industries, driven by advancements in object recognition and artificial intelligence. This, he believes, will enable robots to process complex information and make informed decisions.
Source: kelownanow.com