Interreg Smart AgriFoodTech Solutions

Vanhoucke Machine Engineering is proud to be part of the Interreg Smart AgriFoodTech Solutions (SAFT-Solutions) project. This cross-border initiative brings together farmers, technology companies, knowledge institutions, field labs, and network organisations from Flanders and the Southern Netherlands to accelerate the adoption of smart technologies in agriculture. Together, we are developing innovative solutions to address the challenges facing the agriculture of tomorrow.

Smart Technology for the Agriculture of Tomorrow

The agriculture and agri-food sector is facing major challenges in terms of sustainability, labour shortages, food quality, and climate change. Within the SAFT-Solutions project, the focus is on smart technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, machine vision, and data-driven farming solutions that can support farmers in their daily operations.

The project consists of seven innovation and demonstration projects covering four key technology areas:

• Light and camera technologies for quality inspection and disease detection;
• Weed detection and control with minimal use of chemical inputs;
• Data-driven smart farming for the secure sharing and effective use of agricultural data;
• Harvest robotics for more efficient and future-proof cultivation and harvesting processes.

The technologies developed within the project are tested in realistic farming environments, allowing them to evolve from applied research into practical, market-ready solutions. Besides technical feasibility, the project also focuses on economic value and opportunities for large-scale implementation.

Our Focus: Weed Detection and Control

Within SAFT-Solutions, Vanhoucke Machine Engineering focuses on weed detection and control. Using advanced machine vision technologies and intelligent detection systems, we are exploring how weeds can be accurately identified and targeted without the use of chemical herbicides.

For this research, we work closely with ILVO (Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food). Together, we conduct extensive testing and research to develop new technologies that help farmers work more efficiently, sustainably, and with a future-ready approach.

Through SAFT-Solutions, we continue to develop innovative solutions for agriculture. Together with the other project partners, we aim to harness technology to make the agricultural sector more sustainable, resilient, and future-ready.

For more information about the Interreg Smart AgriFoodTech Solutions (SAFT-Solutions) project, visit:
https://interregvlaned.eu/smart-agrifoodtech-solutions/over-ons

Co-funded by the European Union through Interreg Flanders–The Netherlands.