Chapter 34

Precision Viticulture

Robots

The mechanization of agriculture during the Industrial Revolution and later in the mid-20th century, through the Green Revolution, dramatically shifted the capabilities of individual farmers and the amount of land they could manage. From the cotton gin to tractors and combines, mechanization plays a significant role in the abundant food systems we benefit from today. In agriculture, nearly every process of growing is done using highly mechanized systems, and increasingly, more intelligent robotic systems are being upgraded. Robotics, broadly defined, involves the use of machines capable of performing a wide variety of tasks and actions automatically. This includes machines that navigate spaces and manipulate objects, often utilizing sensors, actuators, and computational systems that process the information and act accordingly.

Applications of Robots in Precision Viticulture

Robotics in vineyards is one of the fastest-growing areas of precision viticulture, helping growers reduce labor dependence, increase efficiency, and improve grape and wine quality. Robots are being designed for tasks ranging from monitoring and spraying to pruning and harvesting.

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