Advances in grasping techniques in agricultural robots

Book excerpt: This chapter provides an overview of the state of the art for grasping and manipulation in agricultural settings. It begins with a review of the robotic mechanisms commonly used for manipulation and grasping. The discussion then addresses issues associated with the integration of different technologies required to create fieldable manipulation systems, namely perception and control. Finally, a review of some specific application areas being addressed is provided, including harvest, pruning and food handling. The chapter is intended to serve as an useful starting point for researchers and practitioners interested in learning more about the challenges and associated approaches being used for grasping and manipulation for agricultural applications.