Development of an autonomous kiwifruit picking robot

The design concept and development status of an autonomous kiwifruit-picking robot is presented. The robot has an intelligent vision system that ensures that only ldquogoodrdquo fruit is picked. The robot receives instruction by radio link and operates autonomously as it navigates through the orchard, picking fruit, unloading full bins of fruit, fetching empty bins and protecting the picked fruit from rain. The robot has four picking arms, each of which will pick one fruit per second. To extend the useful annual work period of the robot, it is envisaged that it will also be used to pollinate kiwifruit flowers.