Cleaning robots in the stable – technology between mud and reality
When you think of stable work, you might not immediately think of robots. Or of technology in general. More likely, you think of rubber boots, wheelbarrows, and a rather rugged daily routine. But it's precisely there, in the seemingly old-fashioned environment of agriculture and animal husbandry, that they're now appearing: stable cleaning robots. And not just in large, highly automated operations – but also in smaller, family-run farms, where innovative solutions for time and personnel are often in demand.
The first time I saw such a robot in a cowshed in Aargau, where cleaning was automated. The floor—as you can imagine—wasn't exactly clinically clean. And in the middle of it all, a flat, bulky robot made its way through the aisles. Slowly but purposefully, the Lely robot works around the clock to clean the barn. With a mixture of calm and persistence that was somehow strangely reassuring, the robot completed the barn cleaning. It was almost like watching an intelligent animal.
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Automate cleaning - How does it work?
What exactly does such a robot actually do? Well, that depends somewhat on the model, especially on the innovative technology used. Vacuuming or sweeping; there are also versions with an integrated water nozzle that improves hygiene in the stable. Most work autonomously, meaning they don't require a remote control. They recognize their surroundings and navigate around them—or sometimes not, if an animal decides to take a nap in the middle of the path, which makes automatic cleaning difficult. Then the robot simply waits. Patiently. Or it drives around the outside.
The obvious advantage is clear: time savings in barn cleaning. Where two hours of manual labor used to be required, a glance at the display of the automatic cleaning robot is now enough. But what shouldn't be underestimated is the psychological effect. Many farmers report that thanks to automation, they can focus more on animal care or management. This may sound trivial – but knowing that the barn stays clean, even when you're at the vet or having breakfast with the family, is a real benefit.
Of course, not everything runs smoothly, especially with automated cleaning. Humidity, cold, slippery floors – these aren't easy conditions. And then there's the question: Does using a manure-cleaning robot make the job better or more alienating? Your hands stay clean, yes – but don't you also lose some of your connection to the place when you're no longer shoveling the dirt yourself?
Perhaps that is the real debate. Whether automation takes something away in such a physical area as stable maintenance – or whether it enables what many lack: time, energy, overview. Everyone has to decide that for themselves. Robots can also be used in a complementary manner, so that humans are relieved where they need it. Numerous farms are already demonstrating that Buying a cleaning robot worthwhile – and the trend is rising.
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Which cleaning robots are really worth it in the stable
Not every robot is made for the stable. This becomes quickly apparent when the floors are uneven, the air humid, and the dirt stubborn. A device that shines in a hotel can quickly reach its limits in a cowshed. And vice versa – what works in the stable usually works everywhere else, especially innovative technologies like the high-pressure cleaner. That's why it's worth taking a closer look at the models Sebotics recommends for such applications. The cleaners are highly reliable, not just because of their technical specifications, but also because they've been tested "out there." By real farms, with real challenges.
The J40 – when the ground doesn’t cooperate
The J40 cleaning robot At first glance, it seems almost inconspicuous, but it's an effective cleaner. Small, flat, with an unobtrusive design – ideal for hygiene in the stable. But that's precisely what makes it so useful. It can get into tight corners, under drinking troughs, between stalls. And it doesn't give up when things get slippery or the calves are too curious. Of course, you have to be careful where its limits lie – stairs, for example, are not a good idea. But for level stable areas? It just drives around and gets the cleaning done. Every day, on the same route. Without complaining.
Gausium Phantas – the washing robot that looks almost too good for the stable
One must be honest: The Fantasy looks almost too classy for stable cleaning, but its performance is optimal. And despite this – or perhaps precisely because of this – it is used on many farms. Why? Because it is reliable. Because it navigates independently, recognizes obstacles, and logs tasks. And because you can trust it to work even when no one is looking. There can be minor glitches, like a brush needing to be changed, of course, but the Phantas remains amazingly effective. But you never get the feeling that it is "offended" and will stop. And once you have set it up, the robot simply does its job of cleaning the stables. And that is often enough to save time around the clock.
TN10 – the robust robot helps you save money
If there is a robot that seems to be built for the stable, then it is probably the TN10No design gimmicks, no unnecessary show. Simply solid engineering. Large wheels, powerful drive, plenty of power. And best of all: It can handle even coarse dirt. Hay, bedding, even the occasional puddle of water – none of that bothers the washing robot much. Of course, it needs care. And every now and then, it wants to be cleaned. But it's not a sensitive soul. Rather, it knows what's important when it's foggy outside and loud in the barn.
Of course, no robot can replace a human's sensitivity to animals. Or the feeling of being the first one in the barn in the morning. But if it relieves you of that burden—simply because you no longer have to shovel every meter of dirt yourself—then perhaps that's exactly the kind of progress that doesn't bother you. It simply helps.
Interested?
With the free robot configurator you can find the right service or cleaning robot for your company. Create a non-binding, free offer based on your individual requirements!