Swarm Farm by William McCarthy, presented at the SPAA Symposium in August 2016.

5. The SwarmFarm Robotics System
SwarmFarm Robotics has designed a new system, the elements of which are as follows:
• SwarmBot – a robotic machine that undertakes work in a paddock
• The Swarm – multiple SwarmBots operating together on an assigned agricultural task
• SwarmHive – the replenishment station(s), placed such that the SwarmBots can automatically refill with herbicide, fuel, fertiliser,
insecticide or seed. It’s also the “nerve centre” that communicates with and coordinates the individual robots
• SwarmKeeper – the human that actually controls the operation of multiple SwarmBots. In the early years of Swarmfarm
Robotic’s operations this individual will be a company employee
• SwarmView – the “App” (a Graphical User Interface) that the Swarmkeeper uses to monitor the operations of the Swarm
The company has so far produced three prototypes (SwarmBots 1, 2 and 3).
SwarmBot 2 SwarmBot 3