Scientists develop robot that automatically sows seeds in the desert

Robot A'seedbot is equipped with a solar battery, which can be charged during the day and then works at night within a radius of 5km.

The annual Global Grad Show in Dubai is always filled with unique ideas. This international exhibition is presented as a gathering place for the most diverse graduate design projects with the aim of providing solutions to environmental and social problems. Due to the impact of Covid-19, part of this year's exhibition took place online, but the MENA region (including the Middle East and North Africa) was held in person within the framework of Dubai Design Week taking place from 8 - 8 - 7pm. 11/13.

A'seedbot - a robot that automatically sows seeds in the desert. (Photo: Global Grad Show)

In 2020, many ideas are being put forward to respond to the pandemic and to fit the new normal. Meanwhile, this year's show has two or three trends, according to Global Grad Show director Tadeu Caravieri. "People are extremely concerned about mental health and well-being. They also pay attention to how to make the home a comfortable place to work, study, take care of health and ensure quality. food," Caravieri said.

Along with concerns about the pandemic, the environment is a top priority topic at the exhibition. One of the notable designs in this theme is A'seedbot, a solar-powered robot that can sow seeds in the desert. "I wish there were more trees out there," said Mazyar Etehadi, a PhD student at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, who designed A'seedbot.

A'seedbot is about 20 cm long with legs made using 3D printing technology. The robot is equipped with a solar battery to charge during the day and work at night. It can run autonomously within a radius of 5km. A'seedbot moves across the sand to find suitable moisture (detected by the robot's "eyes") and sows seeds. It is also equipped with sensors, navigation and collision avoidance systems. Thanks to this, the robot can operate automatically and the human just needs to help refill the seeds.

"I think this is an easy solution, but no one has actually done it," Etehadi said. Etehadi also said he is developing a version that can run on different types of sand, and some investors have shown interest in his design.