Picking Precision: Advantages of Robotics in Agriculture
The machine’s cooling system, which is reminiscent of refrigerator trucks, plays an important role in ensuring the freshness and cleanliness of the harvested strawberries, Pitzer says, noting that the harvester can hold up to 10,000 lb. of picked berries. A chiller system cools the water circulating through the tanks, which is necessary for sterilizing the berries and maintaining food safety standards. Unlike human labor, robots eliminate the risk of disease transfer and ensure a higher level of cleanliness by using quick disconnect parts that can be easily replaced and sanitized. This meticulous approach to handling berries not only reduces the chances of contamination but also spoilage.
The integration of advanced technologies like sensors and AI enhances the performance of these robots in selective harvesting, where delicate fruits are carefully picked without damaging surrounding produce.
READ MORE: Automate 2024 Preview: Robotics, Vision, Artificial Intelligence, Motion Control
Robotic Pickers: From Concept to Fruition
The journey of conceptualizing and implementing these robotic pickers dates to 2013, Pitzer said, when the initial experiments were conducted. Harvest CROO, a sister company to the farm, spearheaded this endeavor funded by major players in the strawberry industry. Through years of research and development, the team has secured multiple patents for their innovative systems, establishing a new standard in agricultural automation. The robots’ ability to scan plants, create 3D models and navigate precise paths for picking displays the level of technological sophistication that has been achieved in this field.
The data collection and analysis capabilities of these robotic pickers are vast with servers storing terabytes of information for real-time monitoring and decision making, according to Pitzer. The software integrated into the system enables farmers to track harvest progress, analyze crop performance and optimize harvesting strategies. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, these robotic pickers have transformed traditional farming practices by enhancing efficiency precision and data-driven insights.
