Date of visit: February 6th, 2017
Weather: Sunny
Hello, everyone! This is Narorin♪
In this Narorin Report or Naroripo, I will tell you about my visit to the Institute of Agricultural Machinery, NARO (IAM/NARO) in Saitama City. The Bio-oriented Technology Research Advancement Institution (BRAIN) is also located in this campus.
The Institute of Agricultural Machinery is conducting research on utilization of robots and information communication technology (ICT) to promote innovative mechanization for agriculture.
In the research unit I visited today, they were developing agricultural machinery and equipments to facilitate easier cultivation and production of fruits and tea. Right now, they are developing a device for extraction of pollen from flowers so that pollination in fruit trees such as pear can proceed smoothly and much faster. However the device is under development stage and it is still a secret, so I could not see it. Too bad!
Instead, I got to see a device that supports the arm while working.
Working in orchards involves many long and hard work such as raising both arms under the tree. This device supports the raised arm to prevent muscle fatigue. It is a user friendly device as you can easily raise and lower your arm. And there is no power source even if it supports your arm from underneath. It is so light and fun to use!
Next, I was guided to the workshop which is the main section of the institute for developing agricultural tools and machinery. There were so many automated tools that I have never seen before! And all the machines were lined up neatly. The place is so clean and well organized!!
This machine can cut and scrape metal. Looks like a super hero helmet. But it's not. It is a protective mask from sparks that flies during welding.
Next, I saw a 3D printer. It's neat, you can make a prototype before going full-scale with metal! I wonder how I can make something out of a 3D data....hmmm.
Machines capable of processing various materials in various ways are available here. There are things that becomes clear after producing a prototype. It is important to see the actual thing. In order to build a new machine, the equipments in this work shop play an important role. Hopefully, farm work will become easier using new farm machinery and robots!
Here I am with the IAM staff who guided me in this visit.
Titbits♪
I had a lively chat with the IAM staff while eating lunch.
Wow! Narorin is on the banner of the IAM ski club ... that's cool!
Now I'm wondering where to go next...
Check here for further details about the Institute of Agricultural Machinery, NARO.
