Rice root growth observation device

The rice root growth observation device, designed with hydroponics and a transparent window, solves the problem of roots being blocked and squeezed by soil, enabling clear observation of the roots and high-accuracy image acquisition, thus improving the reliability of the experiment and the accuracy of the analysis.

CN224069399UActive Publication Date: 2026-04-03GUANGDONG LINJIA FANXIANG AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-06
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing rice root growth observation devices suffer from the problem that the rice roots are completely buried in the soil, causing the roots to be obscured and compressed by soil particles. This makes it difficult to clearly observe the root branches, root hair morphology, and growth direction, thus reducing the accuracy of optical image acquisition.

Method used

A device for observing the growth of rice roots was designed. The device uses hydroponics to fully expose the rice roots to the culture solution. It combines a transparent window and an optical imaging head with an adjustable plate and a roll-up plate structure to protect the roots from excessive sunlight, thus enabling clear observation and image acquisition of the roots.

Benefits of technology

This method enables clear observation and highly accurate image acquisition of rice roots, improving the accuracy of subsequent analysis and research. It also protects the roots from being obstructed or compressed by soil particles, allowing them to grow under suitable light conditions and enhancing the reliability of the experiment.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of observation devices, in particular to a rice root growth observation device which comprises a planting box and a water tank. The lower end of the planting box communicates with a water tank. According to the utility model, the adjusting plate is inserted into rice for hydroponic planting, so that the root system of the rice is completely exposed in a culture solution and is protected from being blocked and extruded by soil particles, branches, root hair forms and growth directions of the root system can be clearly observed by combining with the transparent window, and subsequent image acquisition by an optical imaging head is facilitated; subsequent analysis and research are facilitated, and the accuracy of image acquisition is improved; when the rice root system is planted and observed through the rolling plate, sunlight can be adjusted to penetrate through the transparent window, the influence of long-time illumination on the root system is avoided, the root system can grow under the appropriate illumination condition, and the experiment accuracy is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of observation device technology, and in particular to a rice root growth observation device. Background Technology

[0002] Rice is a plant of the Poaceae family and one of the most important food crops in the world, providing staple food for more than half of the world's population. Rice is not only an important food source for mankind, but also plays an important role in agricultural economy, ecological environment and cultural heritage. Rice root growth observation device is a device used to study the growth status of rice roots. Through different technologies and designs, it is possible to monitor and analyze the morphology, growth dynamics and physiological characteristics of rice roots.

[0003] Meanwhile, existing growth observation devices typically use soil to cultivate rice. Since the rice roots are completely buried in the soil, the roots are easily blocked and squeezed by soil particles, making it difficult to clearly observe the branching, root hair morphology, and growth direction of the roots. This is not conducive to the subsequent acquisition of optical images and reduces the accuracy of image acquisition. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To overcome the problems of existing growth observation devices, which are prone to root obstruction and compression due to the complete burial of rice roots in the soil, making it difficult to clearly observe the branching, root hair morphology and growth direction of the roots, thus hindering the acquisition of subsequent optical images and reducing the accuracy of image acquisition, this utility model provides a rice root growth observation device.

[0005] The technical solution is as follows: A rice root growth observation device includes a planting box and a water tank; the water tank is connected to the lower end of the planting box; it also includes a fixed column, a rolled plate, a connecting rod, an adjusting plate, a screw, a fixed plate, and an optical imaging head; an adjusting plate is installed inside the planting box, and a groove for accommodating the adjusting plate is opened on the inner wall of the planting box. Several sets of rebound springs are installed between the adjusting plate and the planting box. A transparent window is installed on the inner wall of the planting box, and a fixed column is installed on the outer wall of the planting box on one side of the transparent window. A sleeve rod is fixed inside the fixed column, and a rolled plate is sleeved on the outer wall of the sleeve rod. A connecting spring is installed between the rolled plate and the fixed column.

[0006] Furthermore, the upper end of the planting box is equipped with several sets of screws, one end of which is fixed with a connector. The screws pass through the planting box and are fixedly connected to the adjustment plate. The adjustment plate has several sets of planting holes inside.

[0007] Furthermore, a connecting rod is installed on the outer wall of the planting box away from the fixed column. Several sets of hooks are fixed on the inner wall of the connecting rod, and multiple sets of connection holes for accommodating the hooks are opened inside the roll plate.

[0008] Furthermore, the coil plate is connected to the connecting rod via hooks, and both the rebound spring and the connecting spring are equipped with spring rubber dampers inside.

[0009] Furthermore, a fixing plate is installed on the outside of the planting box, and several sets of supplementary lights are installed on the inner wall of the fixing plate. An optical imaging head is installed on the inner wall of the fixing plate below the sets of supplementary lights.

[0010] Furthermore, a control module is installed on the outer wall of the fixing plate, and the control module is electrically connected to the fill light and the optical imaging head.

[0011] Furthermore, the inner wall of the fixing plate is fixed with multiple sets of connecting blocks located below the optical imaging head, and the outer wall of the water tank is provided with connecting holes to accommodate multiple sets of connecting blocks. The fixing plate is fixed to the water tank by inserting multiple sets of connecting blocks.

[0012] Furthermore, a transmission pipe is connected to the upper end of the water tank, and a docking plate is fixed to the end of the transmission pipe away from the water tank. Several sets of pins are installed circumferentially on the inner wall of the docking plate.

[0013] The beneficial effects are: This utility model realizes the hydroponic cultivation of rice by inserting an adjustment plate, which makes the rice roots completely exposed in the culture solution, protecting the roots from being blocked and squeezed by soil particles. Combined with the transparent window, the branching, root hair morphology and growth direction of the roots can be clearly observed, which facilitates the subsequent image acquisition by the optical imaging head, making it easier for subsequent analysis and research, and improving the accuracy of image acquisition.

[0014] When observing rice roots by using a rolled-up plate, the sunlight can be adjusted to block the light from entering through the transparent window, avoiding the effects of prolonged light exposure on the roots and allowing them to grow under suitable light conditions, thus improving the accuracy of the experiment. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the practical rice root growth observation device.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the roll plate in this practical application;

[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the adjustment plate in this practical application;

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the fixing plate in this utility model;

[0019] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the supplementary lighting for this practical application.

[0020] In the attached diagram, the following are the reference numerals: 1. Planting box; 2. Fixing column; 3. Sleeve rod; 4. Roll plate; 5. Connecting rod; 6. Hook; 7. Adjusting plate; 8. Rebound spring; 9. Screw; 10. Connecting joint; 11. Fixing plate; 12. Control module; 13. Supplemental light; 14. Optical imaging head; 15. Water tank; 16. Connecting block; 17. Transmission pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0022] Rice plants typically grow to a height of 50 to 150 centimeters, with an upright stem containing multiple nodes. Each node produces leaves that are lanceolate in shape with smooth edges, parallel veins, and are usually green. The panicle, located at the top of the plant, is conical in shape and consists of many spikelets, each containing a flower. The flower structure is relatively simple, mainly composed of glumes, lemmas, stamens, and pistils. Rice flowers are bisexual, meaning each flower contains both stamens and pistils. The fruit of the rice is a caryopsis, which is what we commonly call the rice grain. The outer husk of the rice grain is hard, protecting the seed. The seeds inside are rich in various nutrients such as starch, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, with a high starch content, making it an important source of energy for the human body.

[0023] The growth cycle of rice is generally divided into several stages. First is the seed germination stage. When the seed is under suitable temperature, humidity and oxygen conditions, it absorbs water and swells, the seed coat ruptures, and the radicle breaks through the seed coat and grows downward to form the root. Then the plumule grows upward to form the stem and leaves, entering the seedling stage. The seedling stage is the foundation stage of rice growth. At this time, the plant grows relatively slowly, mainly focusing on root development and leaf growth. As the seedling continues to grow, it gradually enters the tillering stage. Tillering refers to the phenomenon of branching at the base of the rice stem. These branches can also grow independently and form rice panicles, thereby increasing the yield of rice. After the tillering stage, rice enters the jointing and booting stage. At this time, the plant's stem nodes elongate rapidly, and the rice panicles begin to differentiate and develop. Finally, there is the heading, flowering, grain filling and ripening stage. The rice panicles emerge, pollen is released, pollination is completed, and the grains begin to fill, gradually accumulating nutrients until they mature. The color of mature rice is usually golden yellow, and it can be harvested at this time.

[0024] There are two main methods for planting rice: direct seeding, which involves sowing seeds directly into the paddy field and allowing them to grow naturally, and transplanting, which involves cultivating seedlings in a seedbed and then transplanting them into the paddy field once they have grown to a certain height. Transplanting allows for better control of seedling density and the growing environment, which is beneficial for improving the yield and quality of rice. Rice has relatively specific requirements for its growing environment. As an aquatic plant, it needs to grow in a water-rich environment. Paddy fields usually need to maintain a certain water layer to meet the water requirements for rice growth. At the same time, the water layer can also regulate the temperature and humidity of the paddy field and prevent weed growth. However, rice can also adapt to certain dryland environments. Some rice varieties can be grown in dryland, but the yield is relatively low.

[0025] Rice not only provides abundant food resources for humankind, but also plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Rice paddies provide habitats and food sources for many aquatic organisms and birds, forming a unique rice paddy ecosystem. In addition, rice straw and other by-products can be used for various purposes such as feed, fertilizer, and fuel, possessing high economic and ecological value. With the continuous advancement of science and technology, rice research is also deepening. Scientists have cultivated new rice varieties that are more productive, of higher quality, resistant to pests and diseases, and adaptable to different environments through gene editing, hybridization breeding, and other technologies, making significant contributions to ensuring global food security and sustainable development.

[0026] Root growth is a crucial component of rice plant growth and development, primarily consisting of seed roots, adventitious roots, and lateral roots. Seed roots develop from the seed radicle and play a vital role in the early stages of rice growth. Adventitious roots develop extensively in subsequent growth, replacing primary roots as the main root system. The growth and development of the rice root system directly affects the plant's anchorage capacity, nutrient absorption efficiency, and the growth and development of its above-ground parts.

[0027] The rice root growth monitoring device is a scientific instrument used to study and monitor the growth of rice roots. Its main purpose is to help researchers and agricultural experts gain a deeper understanding of the morphology, structure, growth dynamics, and interaction with the soil environment of rice roots. This provides crucial data support for rice cultivation management, variety improvement, and agricultural research. The application range of the rice root growth monitoring device is very wide. In the field of agricultural research, it can be used to study the root characteristics of different rice varieties, helping to screen for superior varieties better adapted to specific environmental conditions. For example, by observing the growth performance of roots under stress conditions such as drought and salinity, rice varieties with strong stress resistance can be screened, providing a basis for breeding new stress-tolerant rice varieties. Furthermore, this device can also be used to study the impact of soil improvement measures on rice root growth, such as the mechanisms of action of different fertilizers and microbial agents on root development, thus providing scientific guidance for optimizing fertilization strategies. It not only provides detailed root growth data but also provides a scientific basis for optimizing rice cultivation and improving varieties, which is of great significance for improving rice yield and quality and ensuring food security.

[0028] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the rice root growth observation device includes a planting box 1 and a water tank 15; the lower end of the planting box 1 is connected to the water tank 15; it also includes a fixed column 2, a roll plate 4, a connecting rod 5, an adjusting plate 7, screws 9, a fixed plate 11, and an optical imaging head 14; the planting box 1 has an adjusting plate 7 installed inside, and the inner wall of the planting box 1 has a groove to accommodate the adjusting plate 7. Several sets of spring springs 8 are installed between the adjusting plate 7 and the planting box 1. The inner wall of the planting box 1 has a transparent window. The outer wall of the planting box 1 is equipped with a fixed column 2 on one side of the transparent window. The fixed column 2 has a sleeve rod 3 fixed inside, and the outer wall of the sleeve rod 3 is fitted with a roll plate 4. A connecting spring is installed between the roll plate 4 and the fixed column 2. Several sets of screws 9 are installed at the upper end of the planting box 1. One end of each set of screws 9 is fixed with a connector 10. The screws 9 pass through the planting box 1 and are fixedly connected to the adjusting plate 7. Several sets of planting holes are opened inside the adjusting plate 7.

[0029] Please see Figures 2-4 A connecting rod 5 is installed on the outer wall of the planting box 1 away from the fixed column 2. Several sets of hooks 6 are fixed on the inner wall of the connecting rod 5. Multiple sets of connection holes for accommodating the hooks 6 are opened inside the roll plate 4. The roll plate 4 is connected to the connecting rod 5 through the hooks 6. Spring rubber dampers are provided inside the spring spring 8 and the connecting spring. A fixed plate 11 is installed on the outer side of the planting box 1. Several sets of supplementary lights 13 are installed on the inner wall of the fixed plate 11. An optical imaging head 14 is installed on the inner wall of the fixed plate 11 below the several sets of supplementary lights 13.

[0030] Please see Figures 3-5A control module 12 is installed on the outer wall of the fixing plate 11. The control module 12 is electrically connected to the supplementary light 13 and the optical imaging head 14. Multiple sets of connecting blocks 16 are fixed on the inner wall of the fixing plate 11 below the optical imaging head 14. The outer wall of the water tank 15 has connection holes to accommodate multiple sets of connecting blocks 16. The fixing plate 11 is fixed to the water tank 15 by multiple sets of connecting blocks 16. A transmission pipe 17 is connected to the upper end of the water tank 15. A docking plate is fixed at the end of the transmission pipe 17 away from the water tank 15. Several sets of pins are installed circumferentially on the inner wall of the docking plate.

[0031] When using the observation device, prioritize adjusting the position of the adjusting plate 7 inside the planting box 1 according to the rice's growth stage. Use a tool to engage the screw 9 inside the connector 10 and adjust the position of the adjusting plate 7 within the planting box 1 using the return spring 8. This adapts to the root observation of rice at different growth stages. After adjusting the height of the adjusting plate 7, insert the rice seedling into it. Simultaneously, use the connecting plate to connect the pin to the water pipe. Fill the water tank 15 with nutrient solution using the water pipe. Use the adjusting plate 7 to support the rice seedling for hydroponic cultivation, ensuring the rice roots are fully exposed in the nutrient solution, protecting them from obstruction and compression by soil particles. Combined with the transparent window, the root branching, root hair morphology, and growth can be clearly observed. In terms of direction, the roll plate 4 can be pulled and adjusted to be attached to the hook 6 when observing the rice root system, blocking sunlight from entering through the transparent window and avoiding the impact of prolonged light on the root system, allowing the root system to grow under suitable light conditions. When it is necessary to collect and observe images of the root system, the fixing plate 11 is inserted into the water tank 15 using the connecting frame, and the optical imaging head 14 is controlled by the control module 12 for detection. In the case of insufficient light, multiple sets of supplementary lights 13 can be turned on for supplementary lighting. After manually pulling open the roll plate 4, the optical imaging head 14 is controlled to collect images. The absence of soil covering and obstruction increases the accuracy of image collection, facilitating subsequent analysis and research.

[0032] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit this utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A rice root growth observation device characterized by comprising: The utility model provides a kind of planting box and water tank (15);The lower end of planting box (1) is connected and installed water tank (15);Still including fixed column (2), roll plate (4), link rod (5), adjusting plate (7), screw rod (9), fixed plate (11) and optical imaging head (14);Adjusting plate (7) is installed in the inside of planting box (1), sliding slot for accommodating adjusting plate (7) is opened in the inner wall of planting box (1), a plurality of sets of rebound spring (8) are installed between adjusting plate (7) and planting box (1), transparent window is installed on the inner wall of planting box (1), fixed column (2) is installed on the outer wall of planting box (1) at the side of transparent window, sleeve rod (3) is fixed in the inside of fixed column (2), sleeve rod (3) is sleeved with roll plate (4), connecting spring is installed between roll plate (4) and fixed column (2).

2. The rice root growth observation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The upper end of planting box (1) is installed with a plurality of sets of screw rod (9), one end of a plurality of sets of screw rod (9) is fixed with butt joint (10), a plurality of sets of screw rod (9) are fixedly connected with adjusting plate (7) through planting box (1), a plurality of sets of planting holes are opened in the inside of adjusting plate (7).

3. The rice root growth observation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The outer wall of planting box (1) is installed with link rod (5) away from fixed column (2), a plurality of sets of hooks (6) are fixed in the inner wall of link rod (5), a plurality of sets of connecting holes for accommodating hooks (6) are opened in the inside of roll plate (4).

4. The rice root growth observation apparatus according to claim 2, characterized by Roll plate (4) is hung by hooks (6) and link rod (5), spring rubber damper is arranged in the inside of rebound spring (8) and connecting spring.

5. The rice root growth observation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The outer side of planting box (1) is installed with fixed plate (11), a plurality of sets of light supplementing lamps (13) are installed in the inner wall of fixed plate (11), optical imaging head (14) is installed in the inner wall of fixed plate (11) below a plurality of sets of light supplementing lamps (13).

6. The rice root growth observation device according to claim 5, characterized by The outer wall of fixed plate (11) is installed with control module (12), control module (12) is electrically connected with light supplementing lamp (13) and optical imaging head (14).

7. The rice root growth observation device according to claim 5, characterized by A plurality of sets of link blocks (16) are fixed in the inner wall of fixed plate (11) below optical imaging head (14), connecting hole for accommodating a plurality of sets of link blocks (16) is opened in the outer wall of water tank (15), fixed plate (11) is inserted and fixed with water tank (15) by a plurality of sets of link blocks (16).

8. The rice root growth observation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The upper end of water tank (15) is connected and arranged with transmission pipe (17), butt joint disc is fixed in the end of transmission pipe (17) away from water tank (15), a plurality of sets of bolts are installed in the inner wall of butt joint disc.