Robot hand could harvest blackberries better than humans

A new robotic gripper from the University of Arkansas could transform blackberry harvesting, addressing labor shortages in the berry industry. The tulip-inspired soft robotic hand has three fingers with force sensors to gently pick berries without damage. While additional technologies are needed, the gripper could potentially surpass human pickers in consistency and quality. The patented invention may also be adapted for other soft fruits and assist those with limited mobility.