Simon Michaud, an ex-electrical engineer turned entrepreneur, has invented Désherbex—a smart weed removal machine for organic producers.
Originating from Michaud’s love for agriculture and the recognition of the struggles farmers face in manual weeding, Désherbex combines robotics and AI for efficient weed removal. The flexible design accommodates diverse farming needs, Michaud says, emphasizing accessibility for Quebec farmers.
Désherbex’s pivotal moment came with a $75,000 win at the Bourses Pierre-Péladeau competition, propelling them to develop an 18-foot-wide model with over 30 robotic arms. This funding significantly accelerated their timeline, boosting confidence and attracting support. The machine says it promises economic benefits, reducing labor costs and physical strain on farmworkers. It also aims to contribute to sustainable agriculture by minimizing pesticide usage through precise weed removal, particularly addressing pesticide-resistant weeds.
