Smarter fruit harvesting with autonomous technology
Harvesting apples and pears is labor-intensive and costly due to stricter labor regulations and a shortage of workers. This project focuses on developing an autonomous robot that picks apples and prunes fruit trees, reducing labor demands and increasing efficiency.
Background of Use Case 5
Automation of harvesting and pruning processes
The apple-picking robot is continuously being optimized in areas such as fruit detection, picking speed, pruning functionality, and digital integration with existing infrastructures. Field tests with fruit growers in the Netherlands and across Europe ensure validation and acceptance of the technology. The robot is integrated with Munckhof Connect for real-time harvest registration and data collection.
"By automating the picking process, we can reduce labor costs and increase yields."
Contribution to the ecosystem and the sector
More efficient fruit cultivation through robotics
The use of autonomous picking robots reduces labor costs and improves yields. This project enhances picking efficiency and provides more accurate harvest registration. The technology helps growers become less dependent on seasonal labor and offers greater insight into crop performance. Integration with existing digital systems increases the applicability and efficiency of the picking process.
Deliverables Use Case 5
Faster and more precise harvesting with less labor
Development and validation of an autonomous picking and pruning function
Integration with Munckhof Connect for real-time harvest registration
Testing phase with fruit growers in the Netherlands and across Europe
Added value for Human Capital
New skills for precision fruit farming
The introduction of autonomous picking robots requires new knowledge in the use and maintenance of the technology. Growers are trained to analyze data and apply precision techniques in harvesting and pruning. Collaboration between fruit growers and technology developers fosters innovation and accelerates the adoption of autonomous systems in fruit cultivation.
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