Automated Plant Embryo Orientation via Fluid Bath and Vacuum Nozzle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for harvesting plant embryos require manual singulation, orientation, and plating, which are time-consuming and prone to human error.
Innovation Solution
The development of automated systems and methods using an embryo singulation apparatus with a fluid bath, screen, actuator, and camera, and an object orientation apparatus with vacuum nozzle assemblies, to singulate, orient, and plate plant embryos accurately and efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual methods are used for embryo singulation, orientation, and plating, then workers can handle embryos with flexibility, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated system that uses a fluid bath for gentle embryo transport, a screen for singulation, and a robotic arm with vacuum nozzle for precise pickup and placement. This automation eliminates human error while maintaining gentle handling through controlled fluid dynamics and vacuum pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables embryos to be processed through self-organizing mechanisms: embryos naturally settle on the screen during fluid bath agitation, and the robotic system automatically detects and picks embryos based on their position and orientation, reducing the need for complex manual intervention.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual orientation is performed, then workers can adjust embryo positioning, but consistency and precision are difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds the dimension of fluid dynamics to the traditional 2D screen-based approach. By using a fluid bath that allows embryos to move freely in three dimensions before settling on the screen, the system achieves better orientation precision without requiring complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid bath acts as an intermediary between the embryo source and the screening system. It gently transports embryos, allows them to self-orient through fluid motion, and facilitates their transfer to the screen without requiring complex direct manipulation mechanisms.
3Productivity
If automated systems are implemented, then processing speed increases, but system complexity and initial setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system is divided into distinct functional modules: a fluid bath module for gentle transport, a screen module for singulation and orientation, and a robotic pickup/placement module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture, making it more manageable despite the automation.
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 automated systems enable precise singulation, orientation, and plating of plant embryos, reducing human error and increasing efficiency in the embryo handling process.
Implementation Method 1
Each vacuum nozzle can be configured to apply suction to retain an object against the distal end of the vacuum nozzle
Implementation Method 2
The actuator can be coupled to the screen and configured to selectively move the screen relative to a vertical axis
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for singulating, orienting, and delivering oriented objects (e.g., embryos) to a desired location (e.g., a plate containing a selected medium).