Robotic harvesting of broccoli

In news that will strike fear into the hearts of greens-loathing children everywhere, the production of broccoli could soon be easier and cheaper.

A team of UK researchers is working towards the development of a fully automatic robotic harvesting system for the vegetable by testing whether 3D camera technology can be used to identify and select when broccoli is ready for harvesting.

This will be a key step towards the development of a fully automatic robotic harvesting system, which will significantly reduce production costs.

Project lead Professor Tom Duckett, group coordinator of the Agri-Food Technology Research Group at the University of Lincoln, said: “Broccoli is one of the world’s largest vegetable crops and is almost entirely manually harvested, which is costly. This technology is seen as being an important move towards developing fully automatic robot harvesting systems, which could then be used for a variety of different crops.

“In all our agri-related research work, our mission is to develop new technological solutions for the business of producing food through agriculture. The long-term impact of our research includes safer food, less waste, more efficient food production and better use of natural resources, as well as promoting human health and happiness.”

Innovate UK Head of Agriculture and Food Ian Meikle said: “The Agri-Tech Strategy aims to make the UK a world leader in agricultural technology, innovation and sustainability. The funding decisions are expert-led and evidence-based. They support great ideas that address challenges of the future in food and farming. With business, research and government working together, these investments can unlock potential and deliver major benefits for society and the economy.”

Image caption: ©iStockphoto.com/Richard Clark