Autonomous Robot Revolutionizes Apple Harvesting Efficiency
An Autonomous Robotic Fruit Harvester
Tags: Monash University, Australia, Agriculture & Food, Electronics & Robotics
Researchers at Monash University have developed the Monash Apple Retrieving System (MARS), an autonomous robotic fruit harvester designed to address labor shortages and reduce waste in apple farming. MARS integrates a semi-autonomous mobile base, a 6-axis robotic arm, an advanced vision system, and an adaptive end-effector, allowing it to maneuver through branches and harvest apples with over 85% efficiency. Its machine vision system identifies more than 90% of apples within its camera range, processing images in under 200 milliseconds, even in varying weather conditions. The system's innovative motion-planning algorithm ensures collision-free trajectories, reducing processing times and enabling operation in over 50% of apple farms. This technology represents a significant step forward in agricultural automation with potential applications for other fruits.
IP Type or Form Factor: Patent Pending; Device; Platform
TRL: 4 - minimum viable product built in lab
Industry or Tech Area: Agriculture; Robotics
