Optimal Robotic Utilization for Cotton Production

Improved equipment management has been a perpetual task of agricultural producers . This is especially true of cotton producers due to specialized equipment used for the sole purpose of harvest. Questions regarding autonomous robotics regarding reducing or replacing traditional cotton pickers have been raised by farmers and researchers. Iterations between autonomous “swarm bots” and status quo equipment were developed to ascertain optimal levels of robotics. Swarm bots may be fully automated robots responsible for harvesting cotton one boll at a time. Small robots may make multiple passes through the field and harvest lint from bolls as it matures therefore increasing fiber quality and minimizing risk.  A set of simulations were conducted to assess break points that autonomous robotics are physically feasible and economically sound. Results are pertinent to cotton producers and equipment manufacturers as this may reduce one of their largest expenses in cotton production.