Abstract: A robotic automated broccoli plant harvesting apparatus uses a vision system implemented with an RGB depth camera that provides imaging signals. Software operating on a microcomputer processes the imaging signals to identify the height and position of a broccoli plant to sever it with dual opposed cutting blades. In a preferred embodiment, the software algorithm combines color, texture, and distance information of the broccoli plant to reliably cut the broccoli stalk with ?-inch (3.175-millimeter) accuracy. Broccoli stalks of consistent lengths result in uniform, commercially viable products.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 14, 2019
Date of Patent:
May 31, 2022
Assignee:
CV ROBOTICS BOOSTER CLUB
Inventors:
Duncan Freeman, Lane Alvis, Abraham Mes, Micah Mes, Benjamin Nelson, Carter Precourt, Genevieve Sauret, Danielle Scutero