A Review of Solar-Powered, Robotic, and AI-Driven Agricultural Machinery for Smart and Sustainable Farming

Document Type : Review article

Authors

1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shi.C., Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran

2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sarv. C., Islamic Azad University, Sarvestan, Iran

10.22103/bbr.2026.26353.1141

Abstract

The transition from conventional mechanization to intelligent and sustainable farming is increasingly driven by clean energy and automation. This review synthesizes recent advances in solar-powered agricultural machinery, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) within the broader context of biosystems engineering. Solar-powered tractors, autonomous ground vehicles, and unmanned aerial systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower labor demands, and enhance precision in seeding, irrigation, and harvesting. At the same time, AI, machine vision, IoT, and big data enable real-time monitoring and decision-making, contributing to resource-efficient and climate-resilient farming systems. Despite progress, challenges such as high initial costs, limited battery capacity, and insufficient charging infrastructure hinder large-scale adoption. Promising solutions include next-generation batteries, modular energy storage, hybrid renewable energy platforms, and advances in robotic perception and deep learning. This review highlights the synergistic role of bioenergy integration, digital automation, and mechanical innovation in shaping future agricultural machinery. By outlining research priorities in energy storage, robotics, and data-driven farm management, the article provides a roadmap for accelerating smart agriculture toward financially viable, climate-smart, and digitally integrated biosystems.

Keywords

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References

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Biomechanism and Bioenergy Research
Volume 5, Issue 1
March 2026
Pages 41-61

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  • Receive Date: 09 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 04 March 2026

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