Semi-automated undervine slasher development

Under vine management directly impacts on yield, quality and profitability of any vineyards. Regular slashing program plays a significant role in managing under vine plantation and removing the unwanted matters to protect the vine bases. The domestic industrial capacity in producing under vine slasher although satisfying the traditional needs of Australian viticulture, seems not capable of responding to the recent demands imposed by current transitions in global market. The current market requires a faster, smarter and more efficient slasher system to deliver a better finish while lowering the associated costs. To fulfil these demands in this project development of a smart slasher, SAS, is targeted to be designed, equipped and prototyped for an Australian domestic automation industry, Task Automation. The newly designed slasher, benefitted from a sensor controlled motion, will deliver a higher precession performance under minimal labour supervision. These capabilities will dramatically minimise the associated labour costs while satisfying the demand for an advanced performance for viticulture.