Hello reprappers! I’ve been working on a project called +FarmBot , which is an open-source automated precision farming machine. Think of it like a giant 3D printer that has a seed injector and watering nozzle instead of a plastic extruder! I just published a white paper about the technology and vision and would love some feedback and some sharing love. Thanks! The RepRap project was definitely a major source of inspiration for this! #FarmBot
ok, a few basic questions then. you suggest it can “plant seeds”, and “water”, but that’s just a tiny part of growing something. how will it cultivate ( mix the soil) , harvest grown stuff, remove weeds, manage under-performing areas ( like with targeted fertiliser), prevent soil loss/degradation ( like composting, mulch, contouring, wind control, shade management , water erosion, etc) . Can it prune? does it know how to underfill a seed row with gravel? Can it subterranean drip-irrigate? Can it identify and relocate rocks?
also: a gps guided seeder is not new. 
http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/article/2010/08/18/221761_machine.html
Thank you for the questions @David_Buzz !
I agree that just planting seeds and watering do not add up to successfully growing plants. The image you see is a proposed first prototype that has been stripped of complex components and functionality. The idea is we start with this basic functioning product and move forward from there onto more complex operations such as cultivating, selective tilling, targeted fertilizing and pesticide spraying, etc.
In the white paper, I talk extensively about other tooling, sensors, and data-driven “smart farming”. I hope that others (with more experience and knowledge than I) will help contribute to the project by developing innovative ways to go about complex farming.
Add a convayor and its a great idea for seed trays to mass cultivate seedlings.
Welcome in the world of the agriculture of the future. I worked on a prototype similar, but intended to agriculture of the under-developed countries. You’re on the right track. In my opinion, what is important is the cost of production. He must not be expensive.
maybe add some wheels, a motor, and 50 planting heads?
@NigelDickinson that is a brillant idea. it’s a known space to work within.
So it doesn’t wash and fold your clothes. I say its awesome and I think you should continue with this idea.
Rory, ignore the haters. I love it. glad some of the later posters like Robin and Matthew get that.