Automated apple harvesting: A glimpse into the future of agriculture

In a consortium study, we worked with Siemens and KUKA to investigate the automated harvesting of apples. The aim was to analyse the use of robotics and control technology for efficient and sustainable harvesting.

The study focused on key challenges in automated harvesting:

• Robust detection of apples using image processing technology under variable lighting conditions
• Trajectory planning for precise robot movement
• Evaluation of suitable grippers that pick apples safely without causing damage

Following the successful evaluation of the system in the laboratory, field tests are now being conducted under real conditions. The results provide valuable insights into image processing, robot control and gripping technology, bringing automated agriculture one step closer to reality.