Application of robotics in changing the future of agriculture

Abstract

Agricultural production system has witnessed drastic changes in the last few decades with advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence based technologies. Scarcity of labour during peak cropping season has also highlighted the need for an alternative option for safe and sustainable agricultural system using IoT, machine learning and robotics for carrying out agricultural operations. Augmented use of electronics and computer application has made the working of robotic system possible for various field operations viz. transplanting, harvesting, and interculture, etc. for agricultural as well as horticultural crops. These technologies can be integrated with vision based system and GPS for more precise application. Robotic transplanter for transplanting plug-type seedlings may be a good option for future agriculture. It can use robotic arm, manipulator and an end-effector to perform the operation by using computer vision and motion planning algorithm or an artificial intelligence system. The application of robotics will help in various field operations for movement, localization, capturing, targeting and moving to the next target using drones for addressing spatial as well as temporal management of crops. Same operation can be used in spraying, weeding as well as harvesting of fruits. However, the robotic technology seems to be at nascent stage and there is a need to adopt these technologies due to non-availability of labour and their higher wages and to ensure timeless in field operations. Although many research attempts have been made for development of robots for agriculture application, more research should be focused towards the development of next generation robots for difficult and labourious farm operations.