Authors

Abstract

This paper systematically reviews the current status, key issues, and future directions of melon harvesting technologies. First, it outlines the industrial value of melons and the efficiency challenges associated with manual harvesting, emphasizing the necessity of developing mechanized harvesting technologies. Second, it summarizes major techniques for melon maturity detection, including non-destructive methods based on spectral, aromatic, and acoustic characteristics, while analyzing the progress in machine vision and artificial intelligence applications for fruit recognition and localization. Furthermore, the study compares the development history and typical models of melon harvesting machinery domestically and internationally, noting that partial commercialization has been achieved abroad, whereas domestic efforts remain focused on prototype design and experimentation. Finally, the paper identifies existing challenges, such as the lack of commercialized maturity detection technologies, low automation levels in harvesting machinery, and insufficient integration of intelligent systems. To address these issues, recommendations are proposed, including promoting multi-technology integration, advancing the development of harvesting robots, and creating specialized equipment tailored for precision cultivation, thereby facilitating the evolution of melon harvesting technologies toward higher efficiency and intelligence.

Abstract in Chinese

本文系统综述了甜瓜收获技术的发展现状、关键问题与未来方向。首先，概述了甜瓜的产业价值与人工采收面临的效率瓶颈，指出发展机械化收获技术的必要性。其次，梳理了甜瓜成熟度检测的主要技术，包括基于光谱、香气与声学特性的无损检测方法，并分析了机器视觉与人工智能在果实识别与定位中的应用进展。接着，对比了国内外甜瓜收获机械的研发历程与典型机型，指出国外已实现部分商业化应用，而国内仍以样机设计与试验为主。最后，总结出现有技术存在成熟度检测尚未商业化、收获机械自动化程度低、智能系统集成不足等问题，并提出推动多技术融合、加强采摘机器人研发、发展适配精细化种植的专用装备等建议，以促进甜瓜收获技术向高效、智能方向发展。