Crazy Wisdom

Episode #472: FarmBot and the Vision of a Distributed Food Future

Jul 19, 2025
Join Rory Aronson, CEO of FarmBot, as he shares his journey in revolutionizing home gardening with open-source technology. He explains how FarmBot operates like a CNC machine for gardens, detailing its evolution from basic electronics to sophisticated custom boards. Rory discusses the importance of closed-loop feedback systems for accuracy and the intricate nature of integrating hardware and software. They envision a solarpunk future, highlighting the role of local food systems and the ease of growing your own food, making sustainability accessible for everyone.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

FarmBot as CNC Garden Machine

  • FarmBot operates like a CNC machine for gardens, automating seed planting, watering, and weeding.
  • It uses a computer-controlled system with cameras and sensors for precise gardening tasks.
INSIGHT

Hardware Stack Evolution Insight

  • FarmBot's hardware evolved from open-source 3D printer boards to custom-designed PCBs for garden-specific needs.
  • Starting with existing stacks speeds development but custom hardware offers better efficiency over time.
ADVICE

Use Rotary Encoders for Precision

  • Use rotary encoders for closed-loop feedback to maintain motor position and avoid errors like 3D printers producing failed outputs.
  • Feedback prevents FarmBot from damaging plants by losing track of its exact position outdoors.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app