EqG Flim and Flam would try to sell the Apple family one of these · 1:55am May 4th, 2021
Apple-Picking Robot Stems From Labor Shortage
A suite of cameras and algorithms look for fruit amongst the foliage and carefully remove it by gripping it gently and twisting, much like a human would. In order to do this, the robot must consider the shape of the fruit, the way it’s hanging, and where to separate it from the tree while keeping damage to a minimum. A suction system helps pull the apple into the soft, four-fingered grip and then the arm twists and turns to deposit the apple into the bin.
Follow the link for pics and more info.
There is no labor shortage. Growers simply don't want to raise wages, and in a tale as old as time (or rather, as old as capitalism) have found a means of automation that will let them not do that.