A new smart robot could transform the way farmers pick tomatoes.
Researchers at the University of Guelph have developed a grasping system which, when combined with artificial intelligence, can pick up produce.
“It can actually see the tomatoes on the vine,” research assistant Cole Tarry said.
The yellow-armed robot then secures the tomato, pulls it from the vine and places it in a bin.
A simple motion, but one that isn’t straightforward.
Researchers say greenhouses are considered “hostile” environments.
“The objects that you are dealing with are fragile,” explained Medhat Moussa, a professor at U of G’s school of engineering. “These plants are actually hanging literally by a thread.”
With little room for error, why are researchers giving robots this delicate task when humans are better suited to pick tomatoes?
Medhat Moussa, a professor at U of G’s school of engineering (left), and research assistant Cole Tarry (right). (Spencer Turcotte/CTV Kitchener)
“We have a labour shortage when it comes to working in agriculture,” Moussa said. …