Robotic Harvester
We were involved in the completion of this robotic harvester after a group of farmers decided to invest in the development of an automated harvesting system to meet the increasing market demand.
We collaborated from the prototype phase to the finalised product. During the process, we supported a redesign of the machine frame and robot positions, implementation a new Artificial Vision System, and servo control units for camera positioning and robotic tools. We worked improving data communication between Vision, Robots, and Automation systems, and participated in a completed overall redesign of the electrical installation.
The final machines are now in the fields, not only supporting the increasing product demand, but also addressing the latest labour shortages after the Covid pandemic.
Artificial Vision
Having a robot guided by artificial vision, traveling on a bouncing tractor in the harvesting field, and delivering accurate robot positions was the challenge.
To overcome this, a more robust machine frame with accurate robot positioning was implemented. The artificial vision system assembly and its new auto-calibration system, allow perfect alignment, from the product in the field through the vision images, to the final robot product picking and dropping positions.
Systems and Electronics
To ensure the reliability of the machines working in the harsh field environment, only high quality industrial equipment was used.
We worked designing the systems, software and electronics using Fanuc robots, Mitsubishi PLC and servos for motion control, Advantech industrial computers, and high resolution cameras.
All connected through an internal ethernet network, improving communication speed and reducing the number of components and failure points.
The project was originally design for harvesting a specific brassica product, however, customers are quickly showing interest in similar solutions for other products. We would be happy to continue working on other developments in collaboration with our customers.