BIOINSPIRED ROBOTIC SYSTEMS FOR PRECISION AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE: TRENDS, APPLICATIONS, AND CHALLENGES

Isak Karabegović

DOI: 10.26480/bda.01.2026.18.27

ABSTRACT
This paper explores the role of bioinspired robotic systems in advancing precision and sustainable agriculture, emphasizing their potential to transform traditional farming practices through innovative designs inspired by biological systems. Bioinspired approaches draw upon mechanisms found in plants, insects, and animals to enhance adaptability, efficiency, and ecological compatibility. Recent developments include soft robotic grippers that handle delicate fruits without causing mechanical damage, autonomous drones for targeted spraying and monitoring, and sensor technologies inspired by natural systems that improve perception and decision-making in complex agricultural environments. These technologies contribute to greater precision in resource use, reduced reliance on pesticides and water, and improved overall sustainability of agricultural operations.In addition to benefits, the paper examines significant challenges that limit the broader adoption of bioinspired robotics. These include high development and implementation costs, difficulties in scaling prototypes into commercially viable systems, and the need for specialized environments or infrastructure. Furthermore, the complexity of integrating these robotic systems with existing agricultural practices presents barriers, especially for small and medium-sized farms with limited technical capacity.The paper concludes by identifying future research directions that could accelerate the adoption of bioinspired robots. These include the use of biodegradable materials to minimize environmental impact, the development of biohybrid systems that merge biological and mechanical components, and the expansion of applications in urban and vertical farming contexts. Together, these pathways highlight the potential of bioinspired robotic systems to support a transition toward more resilient, efficient, and sustainable food production systems.

KEYWORDS
bioinspired robotics, precision agriculture, sustainable agriculture, smart farming, soft robots, autonomous systems.