Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG)

Plant Sciences (IBG-2)

FieldDeer

A mobile robotics platform with modular design and open-source software that can be adapted to different field conditions on a hardware and software basis.

The FieldDeer is an all-wheel drive and steering robot operating in open fields. Its modular design allows for different parts of the robot to be created, modified, or replaced independently. This design makes FieldDeer flexible and easily adaptable to different field conditions. It mainly consists of driving, steering, suspension, and frame modules. The track width of the robot is 1.8m and the drive-through height is 2m. Depending on the application, these dimensions can be customized.

FieldDeer is fully electric. It has a 48V & 70 Ah lithium battery. All wheels of the robot have a drive module (4 x 500W DC) and steering module (allows ± 180° rotation). The weight of the robot is approximately 400 kg.

FieldDeer is running an open-source Robotic Operating System (ROS) on its built-in computer that makes it possible for users to develop applications like sensor integration, autonomous navigation, image processing, etc. It has 2 RTK upgraded GPS antennas, wheel encoders, and a built-in IMU which allow it to position itself globally for autonomous activities. There are also 2 laser scanners to detect the obstacles in the field for safe operation.

Thanks to the full automation offered by FieldDeer, it is aimed to minimize user interaction in the operation while keeping mobility and flexibility in the field conditions.