Methods
GoPro observation during work, contextual inquiry with farmers, and rapid prototyping on site made it possible to see needs that would not appear in a lab.
Human–Robot Interaction + Prototyping / Farm-ng / in-field research
Designing with an agricultural robot in the field
Field observation, contextual inquiry, and in-situ prototyping turned everyday farm work into concrete changes to robot controls, documentation, lighting, and tool storage.
Mast box and lights
The control panel was redesigned around accessible language, visible system state, and the realities of working at a distance. Light schedules and color documentation helped the robot communicate across a greenhouse.
What the field changed
The strongest opportunities came from iteration with local designers, farmers, and roboticists. Documentation, interruption, and relationship-building became design materials alongside hardware.
Related publication
A Utility Belt for an Agricultural Robot↗︎