This research introduces a robotic pollination system for apple orchards, developed in response to global challenges like colony collapse disorder and climate change. The system uses a commercial manipulator, a vision system, and a spray nozzle for pollen application. It has shown significant improvements over time, with the system accurately detecting and pollinating a high percentage of target flowers, reducing the need for labor-intensive field operations. The system represents a potential solution to the decline in natural pollinators, offering a scalable and efficient alternative for commercial adoption.
Publication date: 21 Nov 2023
Project Page: https://www.washingtonstateuniversity.edu
Paper: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2311.10755
