A recent study led by Tresna Dewi from the Department of Electrical Engineering at Politeknik Negeri Sriwijaya has introduced a groundbreaking approach to strawberry harvesting using robotics, which could significantly enhance agricultural productivity. Published in the journal ‘Jurnal Ilmiah SINERGI’ (Scientific Journal of Synergy), this research showcases a simple yet effective harvesting robot designed to operate efficiently around the clock.
The study emphasizes the integration of fuzzy logic control (FLC) and image segmentation techniques to improve the harvesting process. By employing a proximity sensor and a Pi camera, the robot can identify ripe strawberries and determine their positions with remarkable accuracy. The findings indicate that the use of FLC dramatically increased the harvesting success rate—achieving a 95% hit rate for strawberries positioned centrally and 80% for those on the left and right, compared to 80% and 55% respectively without the FLC.
Dewi noted, “This study is intended to show that simple designs can be helpful and affordable when applied to greenhouse farming in Indonesia.” This statement underscores the potential for this technology to be adopted in various agricultural settings, particularly in regions where labor shortages or high labor costs are prevalent.
The implications for commercial agriculture are significant. As the demand for fresh produce continues to rise, automated solutions like this harvesting robot can reduce labor costs and increase efficiency. Farmers could potentially harvest crops more quickly and with less human intervention, allowing them to focus on other critical areas of their operations.
Additionally, the simplicity of the design means that it could be reproduced easily and affordably, making it accessible to small and medium-sized farms. This research not only highlights advancements in robotics and automation but also reflects a broader trend towards digital farming, which leverages technology to optimize agricultural practices.
As the agricultural sector increasingly turns to innovative solutions to meet challenges, Dewi’s research presents a promising avenue for enhancing productivity and sustainability in farming. The findings published in ‘Jurnal Ilmiah SINERGI’ could pave the way for further developments in agricultural robotics, making it an exciting field to watch.
