Development of an Automated System for Manipulating Soft Agricultural Materials

Industry 4.0 is transforming solutions in various industrial fields. The development and adoption of automated technologies using robotics and applications of Artificial Intelligence enhance the current manual procedures with higher accuracy and better repeatability. The project aims to address the pressing challenges in manipulating soft agricultural materials, such as fruits and vegetables, where traditional automation falls short. Developing automated solutions alongside soft grippers is required to lead to new solutions for grasping and manipulation requirements in different working environments with delicate products.

This project focuses on developing innovative approaches to developing an automated solution that integrates advanced robotics, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms. It also involves designing and building appropriate grippers to enable the precise and gentle handling of soft agricultural materials to avoid or minimise damages during the manipulation processes.

Automated systems promise to revolutionise various industries, such as agricultural practices. The potential benefits include increased productivity, reduced possible damages caused by human errors, and improved overall sustainability in the sectors, highlighting the significance of such research.

This project will be based at The University of Birmingham with significant interaction with the project partners. Our laboratory and workshop were recently refurbished and are well-equipped with extensive instrumentation and computing facilities, offering a vibrant, multidisciplinary, and multicultural working environment. You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment in the PhD program at The University of Birmingham. You will hold, or be expected to achieve, a master’s degree or a four-year undergraduate degree at a 2:1 level (or above) in a relevant subject, e.g. Mechanical Engineering, Robotic or a related field. You will have an enquiring, rigorous, hands-on research approach, strong intellect, and disciplined work habits. Interest in experimental work and development is essential, as are good teamwork, observational and communication skills.

Suitable candidates must complete an electronic application form at the University of Birmingham. Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae and for further details - contact Dr Amir Hajiyavand at a.hajiyavand@bham.ac.uk.