TURNER, Ore. — The robot shines an eerie green in the dark of night as it maneuvers over rows of grapevines at Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Developed by Norwegian-based Saga Robotics, Thorvald — as the system is named — is an autonomous, self-driving vehicle that looks a bit like a small shed on wheels. Inside, it is equipped with a special band of ultraviolet lights designed to suppress powdery mildew and other plant diseases.

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