IAES International Journal of Robotics and Automation (IJRA)
Vol 15, No 2: June 2026

Design of beefsteak tomato harvesting robot system in greenhouse

Thien An Dinh (Ho Chi Minh University of Technology (HCMUT))
So Nam Phung (Ho Chi Minh University of Technology (HCMUT))
Tri Cong Phung (Ho Chi Minh University of Technology (HCMUT))



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

One challenge for tomato harvesting robots is that some of the tomato stems were not detectable because they were hidden behind the leaves or other obstacles. The primary objective of this research is to design, simulate, and experiment with a tomato harvesting robot and propose an improved detection algorithm to overcome the above problem. The suggested detection algorithm is designed to first detect the tomato fruit itself, and if the stem is not visible, the system will automatically adjust the camera's viewing angle to provide a better perspective and uncover the hidden stem. Simulation and experimental tests were carried out in a real tomato greenhouse to evaluate the cutting and holding mechanism, as well as the camera-based detection algorithm. These experimental results confirmed the effectiveness of the gripper and detection system and revealed several challenges in the harvesting algorithm. By integrating advanced algorithms for tomato detection and harvesting, this robot will reduce damage to the tomatoes, ensuring higher quality and yield.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJRA

Publisher

Subject

Automotive Engineering Electrical & Electronics Engineering

Description

Robots are becoming part of people's everyday social lives and will increasingly become so. In future years, robots may become caretaker assistants for the elderly, or academic tutors for our children, or medical assistants, day care assistants, or psychological counselors. Robots may become our ...