Plant Sap Extraction Apparatus for Rapid Field Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for extracting sap from plant material for molecular and serological analysis are time-consuming, expensive, and not suitable for rapid collection in the field, especially during large-scale epidemics like the Mediterranean olive tree disease caused by Xylella fastidiosa, as they require laboratory settings and harmful chemicals.
Innovation Solution
A method using a portable apparatus with a syringe and filter system to inject a saline buffer into a plant sample, allowing for quick extraction of sap, which can be directly analyzed in the field, involving a syringe with a saline buffer, a filter element, and a flexible hose to collect the sap-laden liquid for immediate serological analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods for extracting sap are used, then the extraction can be performed with basic equipment, but the process takes a long time and requires laboratory settings
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a syringe for buffer injection, a filter element for sap filtration, and a collection container. This segmentation allows the apparatus to be simple yet effective, enabling rapid field extraction without requiring complex laboratory equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
A saline buffer is introduced as an intermediary substance to facilitate sap extraction. The buffer is injected into the plant tissue, dissolves cellular contents, and carries sap through the filtration system, enabling rapid extraction without complex processing steps.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional extraction methods are used, then basic materials can be used, but harmful chemicals are required
Solution Approach 1:
The method replaces harmful chemical extraction agents with a benign saline buffer. The buffer achieves effective sap extraction through its salt concentration gradient, converting a potentially harmful chemical process into a safe, simple physical-chemical process suitable for field use.
3Loss of time
If sap is collected for later analysis, then transportation is required, but time is lost in collection and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction and analysis capabilities are merged into a single portable apparatus that can be used directly in the field. The system includes all necessary components (syringe, filter, collection container) in one integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate transportation steps and enabling immediate analysis at the collection site.
4Productivity
If rapid field extraction is implemented, then quick diagnosis is possible, but specialized equipment is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is designed as a disposable component that can be easily replaced. This allows the use of a simple, portable apparatus for rapid field extraction without requiring complex, expensive equipment. The disposable filter ensures contamination prevention while maintaining system simplicity 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
Enables rapid, efficient, and cost-effective sap extraction in the field within 30-60 seconds, allowing for immediate serological analysis and subsequent molecular analysis after heating, facilitating quick diagnosis of plant pathogens at multiple locations.
Implementation Method 1
injecting a liquid through its first end, and collecting, at the second end of the sample, the liquid exiting therefrom
Implementation Method 2
The liquid to be injected into the sample of plant material and to be collected together with the sap comprises a saline buffer
Implementation Method 3
the filter element 6 is provided with a filter of at least 0.22 μm in order to prevent the possible presence of fungi or bacteria in the sap
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Method and apparatus for the extraction of lymph from plant material, the method comprising: - preparing a sample (12) of plant material having a first (11) and a second (13) end, the ends being longitudinally spaced from each other and each having a predetermined cross section, - injecting the sample, through its first end (11), with a predetermined amount of extraction liquid and - collecting, at the second end (13) of the sample, the liquid exiting therefrom.