TEABOT is an advanced robotic tea harvester developed by the Tregothnan Estate in Cornwall, England. Tregothnan is known for being the UK’s first tea plantation, producing high-quality tea since 2005. The estate has a long history of horticulture and is famous for its unique microclimate that allows tea plants to thrive.
TEABOT was created to revolutionize the tea harvesting process by combining robotic technology with the art of tea cultivation. It is designed to carefully pluck the tender leaves from the tea bushes, ensuring optimal quality and flavor. The robot uses precision sensors and algorithms to identify the ideal leaves for harvesting, mimicking the discerning touch of experienced tea pluckers.
Powered by solar panels, the driverless vehicle was designed by an on-site engineer, Tom Gowan, 54, on behalf of Tregothnan – who have already put the machine into practice. Photos of the giant, grey machine show it at work – driving over the top of the lines of English tea bushes.
It has a range of five miles, which includes approximately 10,000 tea bushes.
The introduction of TEABOT has significantly increased the efficiency of tea harvesting at Tregothnan. The robot can work tirelessly and consistently, reducing labor costs and the time required for harvesting. It also minimizes the risk of human error and ensures a consistent quality of tea leaves.
Additionally, TEABOT has been designed to work in harmony with the environment. It operates quietly, minimizing noise pollution, and its electric-powered system reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional machinery. Tregothnan Estate aims to maintain sustainable and eco-friendly practices throughout their tea production.