Expanding its robotic workforce, TRIC Robotics aims to extensively grow its presence in California's strawberry farms, fueled by newly acquired capital.
In the world of agriculture, innovation is blooming, and one company leading the charge is TRIC Robotics. Founded by Dr. Adam Stager and Vishnu Somasundaram at the University of Delaware, this forward-thinking firm is transforming strawberry farming with its fleet of autonomous robots [1].
These tractor-sized machines, named 'Luna', are powered by diesel and equipped with UV-C lights and bug-sucking vacuums. They roam through strawberry fields, covering approximately 30 acres a night, and stay on the farm throughout the growing season [2]. Twice a week, they apply UV-C light, a form of ultraviolet light mostly blocked by Earth’s atmosphere, to kill bacteria and damage pest populations on the plants [5].
This innovative approach to pest control addresses the heavy pesticide reliance typically associated with strawberries, aligning with increasing consumer demand for organic and eco-friendly produce. By combining UV-C disinfection with a vacuum system that removes insect residues without harming the crops, TRIC Robotics offers a chemical-free, sustainable alternative that promotes healthier crops and safer food for consumers [1][3][5].
TRIC Robotics operates on a service model, requiring no upfront investment from farmers. This model integrates seamlessly into existing farm management practices, helping farmers reduce pesticide use while handling labor shortages and environmental concerns [1][3][5]. The company has already serviced over 1000 acres of strawberry farms in Santa Maria [4].
With a goal to become a leader in the strawberry farming robotics industry, TRIC Robotics aims to expand its operations to three strawberry regions in California. The company plans to increase its fleet from nine units to 40-50 units and move into new strawberry farms in Oxnard and Watsonville [2].
The recent seed round funding of $5.5 million, led by Version One Ventures, will be used to scale up the TRIC Robotics fleet and add new capabilities, such as the application of beneficial insects or mites [6]. This expansion is expected to further solidify TRIC Robotics' position as a pioneer in the ag tech industry, potentially making it the biggest ag tech company in robotics without leaving California strawberry farms.
UV-C light is not only effective at controlling pests but also at managing fungal pathogens such as mildews and molds. By using this technology, TRIC Robotics is contributing to the creation of healthier, more sustainable strawberry farms [5]. The company's innovative approach has already demonstrated visible differences between chemically treated and UV-treated sections of strawberry fields.
As TRIC Robotics continues to grow and innovate, it is poised to revolutionize the strawberry farming industry, offering a more environmentally friendly and sustainable solution to traditional pesticide use.
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- By transforming strawberry farming with a more sustainable approach to pest control, TRIC Robotics is setting an example for other industries to follow, embracing the principles of healthier crops, cleaner food, and eco-friendliness.
