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JRM Vol.38 No.2 pp. 543-552
(2026)

Development Report:

Development of a Quadruped Robot System for Load-Carrying Support in Orchard Operations

Ryoma Kataoka*, Mitsuki Aratani*, Kazutoshi Hamada**, and Toru Kurihara* ORCID Icon

*Kochi University of Technology
185 Miyanokuchi, Tosayamada, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan

**Kochi University
200 Monobe Otsu, Nankoku, Kochi 783-8502, Japan

Received:
September 21, 2025
Accepted:
February 18, 2026
Published:
April 20, 2026
Keywords:
quadruped robot, harvesting system, thinning system, transport support, fruit harvesting
Abstract

Harvesting and thinning in orchards involve intensive fruit transport, which is inefficient and burdensome, particularly in mountainous and hilly areas. Heavy vehicles can damage soils and roots, whereas manual transport is labor-intensive. We developed a quadruped robot system capable of stable walking on uneven terrain. Equipped with detachable harvest baskets, an electric basket for discarded fruit, and voice-command control, the system enhances efficiency and enables sustainable orchard management in challenging landscapes.

Automatic disposal of thinned fruits

Automatic disposal of thinned fruits

Cite this article as:
R. Kataoka, M. Aratani, K. Hamada, and T. Kurihara, “Development of a Quadruped Robot System for Load-Carrying Support in Orchard Operations,” J. Robot. Mechatron., Vol.38 No.2, pp. 543-552, 2026.
Data files:
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Last updated on Apr. 19, 2026