Automated Maize Embryo Extraction Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for extracting internal tissue or structure from seeds, such as maize embryos, are labor-intensive and inefficient, particularly for high-throughput applications, leading to low extraction rates and resource wastage in commercial and research settings.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize mechanical forces, including cutting, centrifugal acceleration, and osmotic pressure to access and extract internal seed tissues, allowing for semi-automated or automated extraction of intact embryos from multiple seeds simultaneously, while minimizing damage and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual extraction methods are used, then extraction precision and care for embryo integrity are improved, but productivity and extraction rate deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical extraction with an automated system that uses controlled mechanical forces. The apparatus applies precise mechanical pressure through a piston to rupture the seed coat and endosperm, then uses centrifugal force via rotation to separate and extract the embryo, eliminating manual labor while maintaining extraction precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using pressurized gas or liquid to rupture the seed coat and endosperm. The piston mechanism utilizes pneumatic pressure to deliver controlled force for opening the seed structure, enabling automated extraction while preserving embryo integrity
2Productivity
If automated extraction systems are implemented, then productivity and extraction rate are improved, but device complexity and initial resource requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the extraction process into distinct sequential steps: (1) seed coat rupture via pneumatic pressure, (2) endosperm separation through controlled mechanical force, (3) embryo extraction using centrifugal force during rotation, and (4) collection in a container. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single device: the piston mechanism serves both to rupture the seed coat and to apply mechanical force for endosperm separation, while the rotation mechanism simultaneously provides centrifugal force for embryo separation and mixing with the ruptured seed materials. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate devices needed
3Productivity
If high mechanical force is applied to extract embryos, then extraction rate is improved, but embryo viability and integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic or pulsed application of mechanical force rather than continuous force. The piston applies pressure in controlled pulses to rupture the seed coat and endosperm, then pauses, allowing the embryo to be gently released. This periodic action prevents sustained high force from damaging the embryo while still achieving effective extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters during the extraction process: initially using pneumatic pressure (gas phase) to rupture structures, then transitioning to mechanical contact forces for separation, and finally using centrifugal force during rotation. These parameter changes allow gentle handling of the embryo at different stages while maintaining extraction efficiency
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
Enables high-throughput, efficient, and non-destructive extraction of internal seed tissues, significantly increasing the rate of embryo extraction and reducing the need for extensive labor and resources, while maintaining the viability of extracted embryos for further use in doubled haploid plant production and genetic testing.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus may then be rotated to apply centrifugal force to the seed, thereby separating the internal tissue or structure from the seed coat
Implementation Method 2
A method and apparatus that utilize mechanical forces, including cutting, centrifugal acceleration, and osmotic pressure to access and extract internal seed tissues
Data Source
AI summary
A high throughput apparatus and method for gaining access to and extracting internal tissue or structure of interest from a seed or plurality of seed is disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus utilizes means to expose the internal tissue or structure and means to separate at least some of the exposed internal tissue or structure for collection and evaluation. In one aspect, a method utilizes some force or action to expose the internal tissue or structure and some force or action to separate the internal tissue or structure.