TerraForce, the Vincennes-based agricultural technology startup developing AI-powered harvesters, held a live field test today to demonstrate its autonomous melon harvesting system to area growers.

The test was held off of Old Decker Road near the Hacker Plumbing site.

Founder and CEO Michial J. Jacob said the machine uses computer vision and stereo imaging to detect watermelons in the field, then guides a robotic arm to pick and place the fruit onto a conveyor for cleaning. While the system currently stops at the brushing stage, Jacob noted that future versions will include automated packaging.

“This is all about reducing labor costs so U.S. growers can compete with imports,” Jacob told the crowd. He said H-2A labor costs rise 6–9% annually, while Mexican growers pay far less.

Jacob walked attendees through the technology’s multi-phase development, including visual and infrared ripeness detection, optimized robotic arm movement to avoid crop damage, and soft-grip vacuum cups designed for melons. He acknowledged the challenges of using off-the-shelf components at this stage, with occasional slips or dropped fruit expected during the demonstration.

Over 90% of TerraForce’s funding has come from Knox County investors, with the remainder from Indiana’s watermelon-growing region in Jackson County. Jacob encouraged growers to sign agreements to use the service when commercial units are ready, saying early commitments help secure larger-scale funding and reserve a place in line.

The demonstration was one of two planned, with another public viewing scheduled for September 4. Jacob said his goal is for TerraForce to be the first company in the world to successfully harvest watermelons autonomously using artificial intelligence—right from Vincennes, Indiana.