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Muddy Machines Ltd. has announced its acquisition of the majority of key assets and intellectual property from Fox Robotics Ltd., a startup located in Farnham, U.K., that focused on the unique challenges faced by soft fruit farms.
It’s important to clarify that this Fox Robotics is distinct from Fox Robotics Inc., which is an active company based in Austin, Texas, specializing in autonomous forklifts.
Chris Chavasse, CEO of Muddy Machines, expressed enthusiasm over the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to integrate Fox Robotics’ innovative vehicle into our lineup. Their technology aligns perfectly with our mission to solve labor challenges in horticulture with electric robots that carry out labor-intensive fieldwork and increase worker productivity.”
Fox’s Hugo RT Transformed into Squirrel
Post-acquisition, Muddy Machines is set to diversify its range of autonomous systems, rebranding Fox Robotics’ Hugo RT platform as Squirrel. This platform will compete with the field robot offerings from Burro Robotics, both designed to autonomously transport materials on agricultural land.
The Squirrel robot boasts a payload capacity of 200 kg (441 lbs) and a maximum speed of 3 m/s (6.7 mph). Its dimensions are 107 x 63 cm (42.1 x 24.8 in.), and it features an integrated weighing table, enhancing its utility on the farm.
Muddy Machines aims to introduce additional products that cater to the growers’ need for enhanced operational efficiency.
Muddy Machines Expands with Sprout
Currently, Muddy Machines is well-known for its Sprout robot, a precision agriculture platform designed for specialty crops cultivated in open environments. Earlier this year, the robot’s initial tool, a selective green asparagus harvester, underwent successful trials.
The company, based in Chiswick, U.K., is collaborating with partners to develop supplementary tools for precision agriculture, focusing on key functions such as weeding, planting, and spraying. According to Muddy Machines, “This versatility unlocks true precision agriculture and the cultivation of high-value field vegetables.”
In addition, Sprout is set to extend its applications into berry and fruit sectors. The robot is capable of operating in both outdoor settings and polytunnels, initially serving as an autonomous carrier for heavy loads. The company reports that Sprout can effectively enhance worker productivity and alleviate labor shortages.
Chavasse remarked, “By combining the strengths of Sprout and Squirrel, we’re offering a comprehensive suite of electric robotic solutions that directly tackle the labor challenges faced by the horticulture industry. Our robots are designed to assist farm workers by carrying out labor-intensive tasks, making their jobs easier and more efficient.”
To support the accelerated market delivery of its products, Muddy Machines is currently in the process of raising funds.
Source
www.therobotreport.com