Farmers may soon be able to achieve maximum fruit outputs, with the help of two Australian-made robots which identify issues for growers such as lack of pollination
The robots were part of a recently released study conducted by the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics and commissioned by Horticulture Innovation Australia.
Almonds, apples, lychees, avocados and bananas were part of the trial and the two robots worked concurrently on either side of tree rows using a number of cameras, lasers and software to create a series of algorithms which led to the identification of the fruit.
Horticulture Innovation chief executive John Lloyd said data supplied by the robots showed patterns in yield variations consistent with a lack of pollination.
He said at a test site, a grower planted more pollination trees in those areas and was already seeing positive results.
“By monitoring the data patterns produced by these robots growers can effectively help ensure the best yield possible.”
Mr Lloyd said the robots also showed the capacity to identify individual pieces of fruit, and nuts — making way for fully autonomous tree fruit and nut picking.
“This study has provided a real window into a not too distant future where labour hire shortages and associated costs no longer need to be key concerns for tree crop growers,” Mr Lloyd said.
“Ultimately, this technology will enable growers to save time and money, allowing growers to get their produce to consumers more efficiently while increasing their overall farm gate returns,” he said.
And this isn’t the only example where robots are being used on farms.
Mini robotic sprayers were put to work on Australian farms in March, launched by SwarmFarm.
The sprayers are the size of a large SUV and are designed to run completely autonomously, using GPS guidance and small diesel engines.
