There is a growing idea that weed removal is returning to the ancient method of removing them on an individual basis rather than blanket drenching the crop with a herbicide that maybe selective, but can still check the entire crop.

This ability to select and destroy weeds one at a time is being enabled by computer algorithms that can visually differentiate between desirable and undesirable plants.

Having identified those for elimination they may then be removed by various means, one of which is laser, the method of choice being developed by Carbon Robotics based out of Seattle in the US.

The company recently released its LaserWeeder G2, a new product line that combines the latest computer vision, robotics and laser technology for precision weed control.

Like many others, Carbon Robotics describes the computing as AI, but since it is not making any decisions other than those it is programmed to do, albeit in a very quick manner, the description is somewhat misplaced.

However, the LaserWeeder G2 is claimed to be faster and lighter with a modular design that makes precision weeding available to more farm sizes, field configurations, crop types, and farm budgets around the world.

The company goes on to point out that by eliminating the need for hand labour, herbicides, and mechanical weed control, the LaserWeeder G2 reduces farmers’ weed control costs by up to 80%, while increasing crop yields and boosting farm profitability.

This latest development is said to deliver significant efficiency improvements, operating up to twice as fast as its predecessor and therefore significantly increasing the overall work rate..

The new models are lighter, starting at 1,814kg with the latest the 6.1m model being 25% lighter than the original LaserWeeder.

This reduction in weight enables LaserWeeder G2 models to be paired with lighter and less expensive tractors, reducing soil compaction and allowing for earlier field entry.

Additionally, its modular design supports machine widths ranging from 2m to 20m offering flexible configurations to fit diverse farm requirements and budgets.

Fitted with new 240W lasers, shoot times are reduced, enabling growers to cover more acres in less time.

The processors are sourced from the Nvidia corporation whose graphic processing units (GPUs) accelerate image processing for precise and accurate weeding.

High-resolution cameras with enhanced optics ensure clear and detailed visualization. The 100% liquid-cooled system maintains consistent and dependable operation in all conditions, day or night.

With new size options and a range of price points, the LaserWeeder G2 brings is claimed to bring laser weeding within reach for more farmers around the globe.