The Government of Saskatchewan has committed $230,000 to DOT Technology Corporation, to support its project to develop and pilot its autonomous power platform, DOT, for use in the agriculture sector.
DOT is an autonomous tractor designed to complete various farm tasks such as seeding and spraying, with minimal human supervision. The technology will enhance productivity in the agricultural sector and reduce producers’ costs.
Government funds will be provided over two years, through Innovation Saskatchewan’s Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund, and will be used to develop the platform’s autonomous functions, and to allow for user interaction through a tablet device.
“DOT is a clear example of innovative technology with the potential to transform the business of agriculture in Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan Tina Beaudry-Mellor said. “We are pleased to support this innovation to stimulate research and development that will provide Saskatchewan and the world with cutting edge, home-grown technology.”
DOT Technology Corporation was founded by Norbert Beaujot, Saskatchewan-based farmer, engineer and entrepreneur. Beaujot is also the founder and president of sister company, SeedMaster Manufacturing, and has invested $1.6 million toward the production of the first DOT prototype.
“It is great to have organizations like Innovation Saskatchewan that keep innovation rooted in the province,” Beaujot said. “The government’s continued support for entrepreneurs and innovation is critical in helping companies like DOT Technology succeed locally.”
In collaboration with researchers from the University of Regina, DOT Technology Corporation will develop various technologies to enable the platform to function autonomously. Once fully developed, DOT will be able to complete farming tasks like seeding, spraying and harvesting, with minimal human supervision. The technology will also be open to implements developed by third-party manufacturers, a number of whom have already expressed intentions to build DOT-ready equipment.
Source : Government of Saskatchewan