Researchers from Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), funded by the 2024 Indonesian Technology Dissemination Program (PDTI), have introduced the RoboSemp (spray robot) versions 2 and 3. These innovations aim to improve the efficiency of spraying horticultural crops, particularly chili plants. The technology was implemented at the Mugi Mulyo Farmers Group in Sedayu Village, Muntilan, Magelang Regency, Central Java, benefiting 428 farmers across 80 hectares of farmland. The robotic solution addresses challenges such as high costs and frequent spraying needs, especially during the rainy season.
The research team, including experts from UNY and led by Muslikhin, Ph.D., successfully distributed four units of RoboSemp to the farmers. Field tests demonstrated that RoboSemp sprays 3.6 times faster than manual electric sprayers, even on uneven terrain. The robots, equipped with double sprayers, significantly reduce labor costs by 45-62%. Training sessions were conducted to ensure efficient operation.
Further expansion of training and support for other farmer groups in Magelang is planned, aiming to foster sustainable collaboration between farmers and educational institutions for broader adoption of agricultural robotic technology.
