Kozhikode Startup Builds AI Robot for Safe Coconut Harvesting
Coconuts are an essential crop in many tropical regions, providing a vital source of income for millions of farmers and laborers. However, the traditional method of coconut harvesting, which involves climbing trees and plucking coconuts by hand, can be a hazardous and labor-intensive process. In Kerala, India, a Kozhikode-based startup, Altersage Innovations, has developed a revolutionary solution to address this issue – Coco-bot, a 10-kg AI-powered coconut harvesting robot.
Founded by Ashin P Krishna, a young entrepreneur with a passion for innovation, Altersage Innovations has created a semi-automatic robot that can safely and efficiently harvest coconuts. The robot is designed to address the shortage of skilled climbers, who are essential for harvesting coconuts, but are becoming increasingly scarce in the region.
Coco-bot is equipped with advanced AI technology, sensors, and computer vision, allowing it to navigate the tree canopy, identify ripe coconuts, and pluck them without causing damage to the tree or the fruit. The robot is powered by a rechargeable battery, which ensures a long-lasting operation without the need for frequent recharging.
The development of Coco-bot is a significant milestone in the history of coconut farming, and its potential impact on the industry is immense. The robot can harvest coconuts at a much faster rate than human climbers, making it an attractive solution for large-scale coconut plantations. Moreover, Coco-bot can operate in challenging weather conditions, such as heavy rain or high winds, which often hinder human harvesting efforts.
The success of Coco-bot is a testament to the innovative spirit of Altersage Innovations, which has received support from prominent organizations, including the Kerala Startup Mission and NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development). The startup has also garnered significant industry interest, with Marico Ltd., a leading consumer goods company, showing interest in the technology.
The development of Coco-bot has not only addressed the issue of coconut harvesting but has also created new job opportunities in the region. The startup has hired a team of engineers, technicians, and farmers to work on the project, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy.
The impact of Coco-bot on the coconut industry cannot be overstated. The robot has the potential to revolutionize the way coconuts are harvested, making the process safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. By reducing the dependence on human climbers, Coco-bot can also help to address the issue of labor shortages, which can lead to a decline in coconut production.
In addition to its practical applications, Coco-bot has also generated significant interest in the startup ecosystem, with investors and entrepreneurs from around the world expressing interest in the technology. The success of Altersage Innovations is a shining example of the potential of Indian startups to create innovative solutions that can make a significant impact on society.
In conclusion, the development of Coco-bot by Altersage Innovations is a significant milestone in the history of coconut farming. The robot has the potential to revolutionize the way coconuts are harvested, making the process safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. With its advanced AI technology, sensors, and computer vision, Coco-bot is a game-changer for the coconut industry, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
News Source:
https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/ai-coconut-harvest-coco-bot-altersage/
