New Tech Could Provide Labor Solution for Harvesting Crops

Scientists at the University of Plymouth are developing groundbreaking technology that could assist fruit and vegetable growers with the challenges they face in harvesting crops.

The Automated Brassica harvest in Cornwall (ABC) project is being led by Lecturer in Robotics Martin Stoelen, with key agricultural expertise provided by Professor of Plant Physiology Mick Fuller. It’s all about robots, which can work alongside existing workforces and ensure any gaps in productivity are filled. 

Stoelen has already developed technology that can harvest tomatoes, raspberries and sugar snap peas, and is now focused on the picking of cauliflower, broccoli, kale and cabbage. 

At the heart of his vision, according to Phys.org, is the concept of "variable stiffness." While most robot arms are rigid, the ability to flex and bend is vital in a more variable environment. Stoelen’s GummiArm changes all that—it has two arms and, in many ways, moves more like a human than a machine. 

Another challenge is how to enable the robot to identify cauliflowers that are ready for harvest, and to distinguish which ones to pick.

The solution comes through cameras and sensors in its "hands" that can make real-time 3-D models of the crop by assessing the information it assimilates, allowing it to recognize what to collect and what to leave.

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Stoelen says, "Ultimately, machines such as this will make life easier and simpler as a farmer, but it's also cool technology which might encourage more young people to choose a career in agriculture. There are a lot of small producers here in Cornwall and they shouldn't be excluded from taking advantage of technology because it has the power to transform their lives, just as it can for larger producers."