Automated Nematode Extraction and Imaging for Soil Sample Counting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for extracting and quantifying soybean cyst nematodes from soil samples are laborious, error-prone, and require specialized training, making them inefficient and costly, especially due to the small size and variability of nematode eggs and cysts within diverse soil compositions.
Innovation Solution
A highly automated system that uses sieves with different mesh sizes, robotic handling, and image recognition software to extract and quantify nematodes, allowing for efficient processing of multiple samples without the need for laboratory settings or advanced training, and capable of handling varying soil conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual soil sampling and sieving methods are used to extract nematodes, then extraction can be performed with simple equipment, but the process becomes laborious and error-prone requiring specialized training
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs extraction, separation, and quantification operations autonomously without requiring human manual intervention or specialized training. The system self-manages the complex multi-step process including soil sample processing, nematode extraction through automated sieving, and image-based quantification, thereby resolving the contradiction between equipment simplicity and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated system that uses image recognition and computational algorithms to perform extraction and quantification. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized training while maintaining extraction effectiveness, resolving the contradiction between simple equipment and ease of operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual counting methods are used to quantify nematodes, then equipment costs are low, but the process is time-consuming and requires specialized training
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual counting with an automated image recognition system that captures images of extracted nematodes and uses computational algorithms to quantify them. This substitution dramatically reduces time consumption while the system remains cost-effective by using standard imaging equipment rather than expensive specialized instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies (images) of the nematodes for quantification purposes, allowing automated analysis without direct manual handling or counting. This copying approach enables rapid quantification while using relatively simple and cost-effective imaging equipment.
3Device complexity
If traditional extraction methods are used, then the process can be performed without automated systems, but human error increases and repeatability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual operations with an automated system that performs extraction, separation, and quantification consistently according to programmed protocols. This automation eliminates human error and ensures repeatable results across different samples and operators, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates image capture and automated analysis that provides feedback on extraction effectiveness and quantification accuracy. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain consistent performance and ensure repeatability, justifying the increased device complexity through improved reliability.
4Measurement precision
If laboratory settings are required for nematode extraction and quantification, then accurate results can be achieved, but portability and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a system that combines multiple functions (extraction, separation, imaging, and quantification) into a single integrated platform that can operate in both laboratory and field settings. This multi-functionality maintains measurement precision while enabling portability and accessibility in diverse environments, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses digital imaging to create copies of nematodes for analysis, eliminating the need for specialized laboratory infrastructure. This approach maintains quantification accuracy while enabling the system to be deployed in portable configurations in field settings, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and portability.
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 rapid, precise, and repeatable extraction and quantification of nematodes, reducing human error and resource costs, while being portable and adaptable for different soil types, thus improving the accuracy and efficiency of nematode detection and management strategies.
Implementation Method 1
uses sieves with different mesh sizes to extract and quantify nematodes
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and apparatus for quantification of pre-determined particles in a soil or feces sample with certain automated steps. In one aspect it includes an input station for inputting a soil or feces sample; a sieving/filtering station for separating soil or feces from particles or particle carriers, and/or separating particle carriers from particles; and a collection station for receiving the extracted particles. It can include quantification of the collected sample with an imaging station to digitally image the particles and recognize and count the particles collected. A mechanism can mechanically move the filtered particles from the sieve/filter station to the collection station. A controller can be programmed to automatically control at least certain functions of the mechanism. An optional feature includes acquisition of chemical, biological, physical, or other parameters of the sample with one or more sensors positioned or positionable at the sample.