Once the stuff of sci-fi fantasy, robots and robotic technology are now used in many aspects of daily life, ranging from manufacturing to medicine and everything in between. While humanity is still far from having robot servants at home, robots are commonly used on production lines in factories, and even for specific movements during operation.
Recently, one Estonian company decided to repurpose its technology for a reason that's beneficial for the Earth. Robot manufacturer Milrem, which previously produced autonomous tanks, partnered with the University of Tartu to develop robot foresters that can plant and care for trees.
The decision to create autonomous foresters came after Milrem realized that its technology, which had been developed for military (军事的) use, could be useful in other areas.
“We started looking into what else we could do with these unmanned robots, Mart Noorma, director at Milrem, told Research Estonia. “Together with our partners at universities and public offices, we realized that we could be helpful in automating many industries.”
The robots, which resemble mini tanks, operate in pairs. One robot works as a planter, putting down as many as 380 seedlings covering 2.5 acres in as little as six hours. During the planting stage, the robot records the exact location of each young tree. The other robot follows its path, cutting vegetation and cutting brush, so that the newly planted trees can thrive.
To navigate (导航) their surroundings, the robots use LiDAR and GPS systems. LiDAR uses laser technology to create a three-dimensional geometric map of the robots, environment. Interesting Engineering reported that the robots also use high resolution camera systems to fill in the gaps around obstacles (障碍) and ensure the map's accuracy.
The efficiency and speed of these tree-planting robots give them the high potential to help reverse (逆转) deforestation, a critical issue affecting the planet.
8. Why were autonomous tanks made initially?
A.To plant more trees. | B.To help in medicine. |
C.To create a big brand. | D.To improve military strength. |
9. How many young trees can a robot plant in an hour?
A.About 50. | B.About 63. | C.About 190. | D.About 380. |
10. What can we infer from the last two paragraphs?
A.LiDAR makes it easier to identify the trees. |
B.The robots will improve the environment around the plants. |
C.Map's accuracy results from high resolution camera systems. |
D.The tree planting robots are bound to be widely used soon. |
11. What's the author's attitude to robot foresters?
A.Optimistic. | B.Doubtful. | C.Unclear. | D.Disapproving. |