Automated Multi-Station Seed Analysis System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual seed analysis in the agricultural industry is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to human error, limiting throughput and efficiency in identifying desired traits in large numbers of seeds.
Innovation Solution
An automated system utilizing a staging console, robotic container transfer subsystem, and automated analysis subsystem to analyze multiple seed samples efficiently, including NIR scanning and data storage, with a tray shuttle robot for high-speed processing and analysis of seeds across multiple workstations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual seed analysis procedures are used, then analysis can be performed with simple equipment, but throughput rate is low and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple workstations (first workstation for image capture, second workstation for NIR analysis, third workstation for X-ray analysis) that process seed samples in parallel. Each workstation handles a specific analysis function, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple seeds and achieving high throughput while maintaining modular complexity management.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical handling and visual inspection are replaced with automated robotic sample conveyance systems and optical/NIR/X-ray analysis instruments. The robotic arm automatically transfers seed samples between workstations, and non-contact imaging technologies replace manual visual examination, dramatically increasing throughput and reducing labor intensity.
2Loss of time
If manual visual examination is used, then equipment cost is low, but analysis time is lengthy and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic sample conveyance system operates continuously, automatically transferring seed samples between workstations without interruption. Multiple workstations process different aspects of seed analysis simultaneously, eliminating idle time and enabling continuous high-volume analysis. The system maintains constant operation through automated sample handling and parallel processing workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of direct manual visual inspection, the system creates digital copies of seeds through high-resolution image capture, NIR spectral analysis, and X-ray imaging. These digital representations are then analyzed by automated systems, allowing rapid processing of large numbers of seeds without the time constraints and human error associated with manual examination.
3Measurement precision
If automated multi-station analysis is implemented, then throughput and accuracy are significantly increased, but system complexity and initial investment are higher
Solution Approach 1:
The complex automated analysis system is segmented into distinct functional workstations, each dedicated to a specific type of analysis (image capture, NIR spectroscopy, X-ray imaging). This modular segmentation allows for specialized high-precision instruments at each station while managing overall system complexity through functional decomposition and independent optimization of each module.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system significantly increases the throughput and accuracy of seed analysis, reducing labor requirements and human error, enabling rapid identification of desired traits in large volumes of seeds.
Implementation Method 1
The automated analysis subsystem is structured and operable to sequentially receive each sample container from the container transfer subsystem, remove each object sample from the respective sample container, analyze each respective object sample and return each object sample to the respective sample container
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for analyzing a plurality of samples of small objects. In various other embodiments, the system includes a staging console for supporting a plurality of sample trays. The system additionally includes a plurality of workstations that each includes a robotic container transfer subsystem for sequentially removing and replacing each of a plurality of sample containers arrayed in the sample trays, each sample container containing a sample of small objects. Each workstation additionally includes an automated analysis subsystem for sequentially receiving each container from the transfer subsystem, removing each sample from the respective container, acquiring data of each sample and returning each sample to the respective container. The system further includes a tray shuttle robot that distributes and retrieves the sample trays to and from the workstations.