Soft growing vine-inspired robots for greenhouse plant sampling
Innovative soft growing vine-inspired robots designed for autonomous plant tissue sampling in greenhouses. These flexible robots can navigate complex environments to collect samples without plant disruption, enhancing agricultural research and operations.
Overview
Soft growing vine-inspired robots offer a revolutionary approach to plant tissue sampling in greenhouse environments. These robots mimic the natural growth of vines, using a tube of flexible material that extends when inflated. This design allows them to navigate complex greenhouse structures without causing damage to plants or infrastructure. By integrating a camera and a task-specific sampling tool, these robots can autonomously collect plant tissue samples, facilitating advanced agricultural research and operational efficiency.
Technical specifications
- Flexible design: Made from a tube of flexible material that inflates to extend, mimicking vine growth.
- Autonomous navigation: Equipped with computer vision-based autonomy for precision sampling and obstacle avoidance.
- Sampling payload: Integrates a plant sampling tool at the robot's tip for efficient sample collection.
- Gantry system: Mounted on greenhouse ceilings for comprehensive coverage and mobility.
- Precision placement: Capable of placing collected samples onto a 96-well plate.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, these robots have demonstrated initial capabilities in controlled environments. The ongoing project aims to develop a proof-of-concept system specifically for greenhouse applications, culminating in a final demonstration of autonomous plant sampling.
About Notre Dame University
Notre Dame University is a regional, comprehensive private Catholic university in Cotabato City, serving Central Mindanao through higher education, graduate study, and basic education. Its University Research and Publications Center supports research development, publication, and university research events, while graduate training and technology-enabled library resources strengthen access to research methods and development literature. Community extension, public-sector engagement, and regional linkages give external partners routes to work with the university beyond the classroom. Research support is pursued through competitive Philippine programs, including the Commission on Higher Education and Department of Science and Technology, alongside externally funded development partnerships. A dedicated research office provides a clear starting point for knowledge exchange and applied collaboration responsive to Central Mindanao stakeholders.
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