DS 102 Apple Tree Breeding for Storage Life and Hardiness
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a novel apple tree variety that is hardy for north-central Washington state, with specific characteristics such as moderate vigor, spur growth habit, and fruit traits like uniform golden color, non-protruding lenticels, and long storage life, which are not adequately met by existing varieties.
Innovation Solution
The development of the 'DS 102' apple tree variety, derived from open-pollinated 'Honeycrisp' seeds, which exhibits unique traits including larger peduncle length, shorter king bloom, and exceptional firmness, crispness, and sweetness, with a 9-month storage life, and is bred to be suitable for commercial viability in the region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If existing apple varieties are used, then fruit production is maintained, but storage life is insufficient and handling properties are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and propagating trees with specific pomological characteristics including uniform golden color, non-protruding lenticels, and firm flesh texture. These parameter changes in fruit morphology and physical properties directly extend storage life to 9 months while improving handling properties by preventing bruising during commercial handling operations.
2Productivity
If tree vigor is increased to improve productivity, then fruit yield increases, but hardiness for north-central Washington state decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting seedlings with moderate vigor rather than high vigor, creating an optimal balance for north-central Washington conditions. This moderate vigor parameter allows the tree to maintain hardiness against local climate conditions while still achieving commercial productivity through controlled spur growth and tip bearing patterns.
3Quantity of substance
If fruit size is increased to improve marketability, then commercial value increases, but uniform color pattern and skin quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting seedlings that produce medium-large fruit with uniform golden coloration and smooth skin texture. This parameter optimization ensures that fruit size increases do not compromise color uniformity or skin quality, maintaining high manufacturing precision in fruit appearance while achieving commercial marketability.
Data Source
AI summary
A new and distinctive seedling of Malus domestica apple that is distinguished by its complete uniform color pattern, unique eating equality, and long storage life for a mid-season apple.