Automated Avian Embryo Injection System with Optical Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for delivering substances to specific embryonic structures within a developing avian egg are not automated, safe, or effective, as they lack the capability to target and inject substances into precise locations without damaging the embryo.
Innovation Solution
An automated Embryonic Structure Targeting Injection System (ESTIS) that aseptically opens the egg, detects and maps the location of embryonic structures using visual information, and precisely injects substances into specific locations within the egg, such as the heart or blood vessels, before sealing the egg to ensure safe development.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional injection devices are used to deliver substances to embryos, then substances can be injected into the egg, but the injection cannot be targeted to specific embryonic structures and may damage the embryo
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the injection process into distinct functional modules: an imaging module for locating embryonic structures, a positioning module for aligning the needle, and an injection module for substance delivery. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while achieving precise targeted injection into specific embryonic structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary imaging and localization of embryonic structures before the injection process. The imaging module captures images of the embryo and identifies target structures in advance, allowing the positioning system to pre-align the needle before actual injection occurs, thereby ensuring precision while managing complexity through sequential operations.
2Productivity
If automated injection systems are implemented, then processing speed increases, but the risk of damaging embryonic structures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through imaging during the injection process. The imaging module continuously monitors needle position relative to embryonic structures, providing feedback that allows the control system to adjust positioning and prevent damage while maintaining automated high-speed processing of multiple eggs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical injection with an automated system that uses optical imaging for guidance and control. This substitution allows for more precise control at high speeds, as the optical feedback system can detect and respond to positional variations faster than manual operation, reducing damage risk while increasing productivity.
3Ease of operation
If the egg is opened for injection, then substances can be delivered to the embryo, but the embryo is exposed to contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a controlled opening mechanism that creates a defined access point to the egg while maintaining a barrier between the external environment and the embryonic interior. The opening is minimized and controlled, serving as an intermediary access point that allows needle insertion while limiting contamination exposure, and is subsequently sealed to restore protective integrity.
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 enables safe and effective delivery of substances to specific embryonic structures, such as the heart or blood vessels, within the egg, allowing for the continued development and hatching of the embryo, with the capability to process and inject over 1,000 eggs per hour.
Implementation Method 1
determines positional information in part by the non-invasive use of transmitted light
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~2C
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A system (300) is disclosed for injecting a substance into a specific location within a developing avian embryo, or a specific location of an egg containing an avian embryo. The system (300) compris a means for aseptically cutting the outer shell of the egg, such that a portion of the shell is prepared for removal, a means for removing the shell portion to produce an opening in the egg, a means (303) for mapping or targeting the x, y, z coordinates of embryonic structures to locate the desired specific injection location, a means (200) for injecting the specific substance into the specific injection location, and a means for aseptically sealing the opening.