Muddy Machines Ltd. this week said it has acquired the majority of key assets and intellectual property from Fox Robotics Ltd. Farnham, U.K.-based Fox Robotics was a startup focused on the challenges and operations of soft fruit farms.
Fox Robotics is not to be confused with Fox Robotics Inc., an Austin, Texas-based provider of autonomous fork trucks that’s still in operation.
“We are thrilled to integrate Fox Robotics’ innovative vehicle into our lineup,” said Chris Chavasse, CEO of Muddy Machines. “Their technology aligns perfectly with our mission to solve labor challenges in horticulture with electric robots that carry out labor-intensive fieldwork and increase worker productivity.”
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Fox’s Hugo RT is now Squirrel
With its acquisition of Fox, Muddy Machines said it now offers growers a wider selection of autonomous systems. The company will change the name of Fox Robotics’ Hugo RT platform to Squirrel.
Squirrel is a competitor to the field robot of Burro Robotics. This class of mobile robots autonomously transports material from one point to another on the farm.
The newly renamed Squirrel robot has a payload of 200 kg (441 lb.) and a top speed of 3 m/s (6.7 mph). It measures 107 x 63 cm (42.1 x 24.8 in.) and includes an integrated weighing table.
Muddy Machines said it plans to offer more products to meet growers‘ needs for more efficient operations.
The Hugo RT has been renamed Squirrel following the acquisition of Fox Robotics Ltd. | Credit: Muddy Machines
Muddy Machines builds on Sprout
Muddy Machine’s existing robot, Sprout, is a precision agriculture platform for specialty crops grown in open fields. Its initial tool, a selective green asparagus harvester, was successfully trialed earlier this year.
With partners, the Chiswick, U.K.-based company is developing additional tools for precision weeding, planting, and spraying. “This versatility unlocks true precision agriculture and the cultivation of high-value field vegetables,” it said.
It added that Sprout will extend its reach into the berry and fruit sector. Capable of operating both outdoors and in polytunnels, the robot is initially serving as an autonomous carrier for heavy loads. Muddy Machines said Sprout can increase worker productivity and address labor shortages.
“By combining the strengths of Sprout and Squirrel, we’re offering a comprehensive suite of electric robotic solutions that directly tackle the labor challenges faced by the horticulture industry,” added Chavasse. “Our robots are designed to assist farm workers by carrying out labor-intensive tasks, making their jobs easier and more efficient.”
Muddy Machines is currently raising funds to accelerate the delivery of its products to the market.
The Sprout is an autonomous, precision agriculture platform. | Credit: Muddy Machines
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