MAC12 Apple Tree Breeding via Open Pollination

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a new apple tree variety that offers distinct characteristics such as fruit shape, stalk form, tree vigor, and cropping habit, which are not adequately met by existing varieties like 'Scired' and 'Cripps Pink'.

Innovation Solution

The development of the apple tree variety 'MAC12', which was bred through open pollination and selected for its unique traits, including globose fruit shape, medium fruit size, late maturity, and spreading tree habit, among others.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If open pollination breeding is used to create new apple varieties, then genetic diversity and unique traits are improved, but breeding time and program complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegenetic diversityVSAvoidbreeding time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a systematic breeding program framework in advance, including predefined selection criteria, multiple generation testing protocols, and structured evaluation methods. This allows the breeding process to proceed efficiently through predetermined stages rather than ad hoc development, reducing overall breeding time while maintaining genetic diversity through controlled open pollination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If multiple generations of asexual propagation are performed, then variety stability and true-to-type characteristics are improved, but propagation time and resource investment increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevariety stabilityVSAvoidpropagation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms by systematically observing and evaluating the apple variety across multiple asexual propagation generations, comparing each generation's characteristics against the original breeding selection. This structured feedback loop ensures variety stability is maintained and verified, allowing confident propagation decisions without requiring excessive generations, thus optimizing both stability and time investment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If selection is performed from a population of seedlings, then variety uniqueness and distinct characteristics are improved, but selection stringency and evaluation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevariety uniquenessVSAvoidevaluation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by focusing evaluation on specific key characteristics of the apple variety rather than assessing all possible traits. The breeding program identifies and prioritizes particular features (such as fruit shape, size, color, and cropping habits) for detailed evaluation, while other less critical traits receive less attention. This selective focus reduces evaluation complexity while still capturing the variety's unique characteristics effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUSPP36689P2Apple tree named ‘MAC12’

Publication Date: 2025.05.20 TRAJECTORY 762 LTD

AI summary

A new and distinct apple tree named ‘MAC12’ having fruit notable for its attractive radiant red appearance, crisp and refreshing texture, excellent storage and long shelf life.