What Do Farmers Need from Agricultural Robots?

In the context of smart agriculture, new and advanced machines are emerging to be implemented in the agricultural field, such as mobile field robots. These systems are usually lightweight machines compared to conventional tractors and can be categorized according to their structural components, functionalities, and applications. In addition, both commercial systems and academic prototypes have been developed and advanced in recent years. The reasons that influence the low adoption of commercial mobile robots have been investigated, as well as the challenges that need to be addressed. In addition, the factors influencing the adoption of agricultural robots have been investigated. However, less attention has been paid to the specific capabilities that a mobile field robot should have from the farmer's point of view, and for which agricultural activities it should be used profitably. Therefore, the objective of this study is to define the needs and requirements of farmers for mobile agricultural field robots. A survey method was used to obtain responses from farmers from different areas and specializations. The questionnaire, composed of three sections, was deployed both online and as paper printed version to Italian farmers. The first section collected general information about the farmer, farm type, and equipment currently used. The second one focused on the farmers’ knowledge of the mobile field robot, providing also an exemplificative video at the ending. The third one collected the needs and feedback of the farmers for robots. A total of 51 farmers responded to the survey indicating a good knowledge of mobile field robot. Considering farmers’ needs, variable rate technology and tillage operations were identified as the best practices that can be effectively implemented by field robots. The key features indicated were fast recharge time and an autonomy of 7–9 h for electric robots, as well as a minimum forward speed of 2–5 kmh−1. The primary issue for investing in agricultural robots were to reduce labor costs, increase farm profitability, and prioritize worker safety. In contrast, the availability of incentives and environmental sustainability appear to be less important factors. The main concerns were related to the need for specialized knowledge, ensuring safe operating practices, and the investment costs associated with the technology.