In a significant advancement for the agricultural sector, Israeli AgTech startup Nanovel has unveiled the world’s first AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot, specifically designed to pick citrus fruits from large trees with dense foliage. This innovative technology addresses the pressing challenges of labor shortages and rising costs faced by growers worldwide, particularly in the citrus industry.
Nanovel’s groundbreaking robot has garnered recognition from the California Citrus Research Board (CRB), which has entered into a non-dilutive funding agreement with the startup for $900,000. This partnership will facilitate a series of field trials in California, set to commence in spring 2025, before the delivery of the robot to the CRB. The trials will be conducted in collaboration with leading citrus growers, marking a pivotal step toward real-world application of this advanced technology.
Founded in 2018 by Isaac Mazor, a serial entrepreneur with extensive experience in technology innovation, Nanovel aims to revolutionize fruit harvesting. According to a survey by Western Growers, profitability and labor availability are the top two challenges for specialty crop growers, making the need for such technological solutions more urgent than ever. Mazor, who previously founded Jordan Valley Semiconductors, has leveraged his expertise in AI, robotics, and computer vision to create a system that promises to enhance productivity in the agricultural sector.
The robot’s design features a multi-arm platform initially towed by a tractor, with plans for future versions to include autonomous navigation capabilities. Each arm is equipped with a patented end-effector that uses a vacuum gripper to carefully cradle the fruit and trim the stems without causing damage. This precision is crucial for meeting the quality standards required for fresh market sales. The robot is set to begin its operations by harvesting oranges, with future expansions planned for other citrus varieties and even fruits like avocados and peaches.
One of the key advantages of Nanovel’s robot is its potential to drastically reduce labor costs, which can account for up to 50% of annual cultural costs in the citrus industry. By automating the harvesting process, growers can alleviate the logistical challenges associated with hiring seasonal workers, a task that has become increasingly difficult due to workforce shortages. The robot’s ability to operate both day and night enhances productivity, ensuring that crops are harvested at optimal times, which can improve fruit quality and market value.
Moreover, the system’s advanced edge computing capabilities allow for real-time data collection during the harvesting process. This data not only aids in packing and marketing activities but also provides agronomic insights that can be invaluable for growers. The automation of harvesting also significantly improves worker safety by reducing the risks associated with manual harvesting tasks, particularly those involving ladders.
Nanovel’s AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot will be showcased at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit in London from September 30 to October 1, highlighting its potential impact on the global agricultural landscape. “Our mission is to secure the affordability of fresh fruit through autonomous harvesting,” said Mazor. He emphasized the company’s goal to deploy its solution in major citrus markets, particularly in the United States and Southern European countries such as Spain and Italy, aiming to set a new standard for fresh market harvesting.
As the agricultural industry continues to grapple with labor shortages and rising operational costs, innovations like Nanovel’s autonomous harvesting robot represent a promising solution. By integrating advanced technology into traditional farming practices, the potential for increased efficiency, safety, and profitability in fruit harvesting is becoming a tangible reality for growers around the world.