An AI-powered robot developed here by experts at a university in Abu Dhabi is capable of accurately identifying ripe strawberries, picking them without causing damage, and operating tirelessly across various environments, from sunny fields to controlled greenhouses. The ‘Strawberry Picker’ bot project, led by professors from the robotics department at Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), is done in collaboration with other departments, including machine learning and computer vision. This innovative solution, poised to support the farming industry, aims to help farmers reduce labour costs while maintaining high levels of productivity and fruit quality. How it works? The robot leverages advanced artificial intelligence, computer vision, machine learning, robotics, and precision agriculture technologies. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, the robot analyses plants in real-time, identifying ripe strawberries based on parametres such as colour, size, and shape. Machine learning algorithms ensure precise identification, distinguishing ripe fruits from unripe or damaged ones. Once a ripe strawberry is detected, a robotic arm with a sensitive gripper gently picks the fruit without causing harm. The robot combines ‘active perception’ with its manipulation capabilities, enabling it to adjust its position or grip based on environmental factors like light, obstructions, or plant movement caused […]