Next-Generation Machines for Precision Agriculture

The traditional image of someone using oxen and a harrow to plow fields is now a relic of the past. Today, this once laborious task has been largely replaced by advanced agricultural machinery that can be operated with ease. These machines have become essential in modern farming, as the soaring demand for food and animal feed requires large-scale cultivation of both fields and greenhouses. Da Ros Srl, an Italian manufacturer, focuses on producing equipment for nurseries and vertical farming. Among their innovations is a transplanter, which streamlines daily farming activities with the help of integrated FAULHABER drive systems.

The integration of automation and robotics is transforming modern agriculture, leading to major shifts in how food is produced. These advancements offer a range of advantages, such as increased efficiency, higher productivity, and more eco-friendly, sustainable farming methods. Automation also minimizes physical labor and boosts worker safety by taking over heavy, repetitive, and physically strenuous tasks. Moreover, robotic solutions help mitigate the impact of labor shortages. Ongoing technological progress is essential—not only to remain competitive in the evolving market but also to keep pace with the rising expectations of Industry.

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Smart Farming with the Transplanter

With the help of advanced equipment and smart technologies, specific areas or even individual plants can now be managed with precision, based on their unique conditions. Smart farming enables computer-assisted and automated cultivation of sections or entire fields, while interconnected systems simplify operations and improve workflow efficiency.

Among Da Ros’s innovative offerings is the new transplanter, the "TRAPIANTATRICE Model TP-24." Designed for use with horticultural, floral, and forestry plants, this machine performs delicate transplanting using specialized grippers.

It gently transfers seedlings from small germination tray cells to larger containers, ensuring the plants remain undamaged and ready for further growth. Despite such technological advancements, modern machinery still faces hurdles in maximizing the efficiency of precision agriculture. Equipment must be quick to set up and capable of delivering consistent, accurate performance—particularly in repetitive tasks.

Founded in 1986, Da Ros Srl, an Italian company, focuses on the design, engineering, and delivery of highly effective agricultural machinery. They cater to the unique needs and workflows of the agricultural industry, offering innovative technologies that drive automation and efficiency. Whether it’s sowing, transplanting, potting, or watering, Da Ros provides both standard and customized solutions to support sustainable and productive farming practices.

When FAULHABER Assists in Planting

FAULHABER drive systems play a key role in ensuring precise gripper control in the TP-24 transplanter. Their compact design and dynamic performance allow for a minimal spacing of just 22 mm between grippers, enabling the integration of up to 24 grippers within the machine. At the heart of the system is a brushless motor from the 2250...BX4 series, featuring built-in feedback, paired with a 22GPT series planetary gearhead.

This combination guarantees reliable operation with high continuous torque and rapid speed, significantly boosting the machine’s productivity. Control is handled by the FAULHABER Motion Controller MC 5004 P, which communicates via EtherCAT for seamless integration. The machine’s modular design also makes it easy to customize for varying production needs.

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The Da Ros team shared their positive experience: “We needed a compact brushless motor, and at FAULHABER, we not only found the right solution but also received exceptional support. In the early stages, when our application requirements weren’t fully defined, their team offered valuable expertise and guidance. From initial development to final commissioning, we were supported by knowledgeable professionals who helped us select the most suitable components for our technical needs.”