Objectives of the service
The FarmBull robot transforms agriculture by delivering autonomous precision, operational simplicity, protection of the environment and resources, and measurable productivity gains in a single, adaptable platform.
Reliability meets autonomy. The FarmBull robot executes critical field operations — seeding, soil cultivation, and fertilizer application — with consistent precision. Every task runs autonomously with maximum efficiency.
One platform. Unlimited possibilities. Whether cultivating corn, sunflowers, soybeans, or maintaining sugar beets, the FarmBull robot's modular design adapts to specific customer needs. Simple equipment switching. No operational complexity. Just streamlined workflows.
Measurable ROI. By automating the entire operational cycle, users as farmers and agricultural service providers reduce labor costs, minimize downtime, and maximize yield consistency.
Built-in flexibility. The modular architecture allows to configure the FarmBull robot precisely for the needed requirements – today and tomorrow. It enables scaling operations, adapting to market demands, legal and regulatory requirements, and staying competitive.
Bottom line: The FarmBull robot isn't just a machine. It's a competitive edge in modern agriculture — delivering autonomy, reliability, respect for the environment, and simplicity where it matters most: in the field.
Users and their needs
Target audience and markets:
The target audience is the agricultural sector, particularly farmers and agricultural service providers. Initially, the target markets are Germany, followed by Europe.
User requirements:
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The machine must be robust and reliable (hardware and software).
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The robot must comply with all relevant quality and safety standards.
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Simple and intuitive operation and monitoring.
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Increase overall cost-saving potential and enhance operational efficiency: optimize workflows/cycles and travel distances, reduce material input and labor requirements.
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Improved automation: minimize dependence on manual processes to reduce human error and labor costs.
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Real-time data analysis: access to reliable, up-to-date information in real time to support better decision-making, operational monitoring, and documentation.
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Sustainability objectives: achieve environmental targets by reducing CO₂ emissions and utilizing on-site photovoltaic (PV) power.
Service/ system concept
Functionality and features:
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The work tasks/operations, including all parameters and settings, are defined via a control unit (computer or mobile device) and transmitted to machines CPU.
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Operation and monitoring of the robot can be performed directly on-site as well as remotely via computer or mobile devices.
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Retrieval of stored field boundaries or importing field boundaries via RTK sensor or FIONA fetch.
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Automatic field planning, including precise calculation of driving paths/routes and navigation based on the stored data.
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For recurring operations (e.g. hoeing, fertilizer application on the same field after sowing), saved data can be reloaded.
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Independent detection of obstacles and respond accordingly.
Space Added Value
Reliable and Safe Operation
Reliable and safe robot operation is fundamental to the FarmBull project's success. To overcome the widespread coverage limitations of terrestrial networks in agricultural environments, advanced space technology has been integrated. This enables seamless reception of signals from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites at any location, at any time.
Precision through RTK Technology
The FarmBull project leverages Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology to achieve positioning accuracy of 1–2 centimetres - a critical requirement for precision agriculture operations. Receiving RTK signal is secured through satellite connection.
Dual-Signal Infrastructure
Reliable signal reception is ensured through two essential components:
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Satellite Communication Antennas: Specialized antennas for receiving satellite communications and navigation signals
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Intelligent Switching Unit: Enables seamless, automatic transition between terrestrial and satellite signals, ensuring continuous connectivity
Looking Ahead
Future development plans include comprehensive field trials and a subsequent transition to LEO-based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (LEO-PNT) services. ESA’s LEO-PNT is subject to availability.
Current Status
Achievements:
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The first prototypes have already delivered positive results and provided insights that are now being incorporated into the further development of the machine and system, including improvements in robustness and design optimization.
Work in progress:
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Integration of satellite communication for data transfer
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Optimization and simplification of the user interface.
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Field testing on agricultural land owned by prospective buyers across various applications with latest generation of prototypes and different agricultural implements.
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Close cooperation with users throughout the ongoing development process
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Sowing and hoeing during spring season 2026
Activities about to start:
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Analysis of the gathered data and user feedback (from spring season), identify next steps/measures
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Implementation, verification and validation of the safety & security system
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Further optimization of implements
