Automated Pupae Elimination via Laser and Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for selectively eliminating mosquito pupae by sex in aquatic environments are labor-intensive and inefficient, often resulting in the unintended removal of individuals due to mechanical separation techniques.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing high-resolution cameras and artificial vision to differentiate male and female pupae by size, combined with a conveyance system and high-precision laser or suction eliminators for targeted elimination, ensuring accurate sexing and removal based on established size thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical separation methods are used to select pupae by size, then separation can be performed, but intensive labor and considerable loss of unwanted individuals occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical separation with an automated system combining optical detection (camera), artificial vision processing, and precision elimination (laser or suction). This substitution eliminates labor-intensive manual operations and enables precise targeting of unwanted pupae based on size criteria, thereby improving productivity while minimizing loss of desired individuals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic identification and elimination of unwanted pupae through integrated artificial vision and elimination mechanisms. The device autonomously performs size-based selection without human intervention, with the elimination system self-regulating to target only pupae exceeding size thresholds, thus preventing loss of correctly identified individuals.
2Measurement precision
If manual separation methods are used to select pupae by sex, then selection can be performed, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and separation with an automated optical detection and artificial vision system. The camera captures images of pupae, and the artificial vision algorithm automatically identifies sex based on size differences, eliminating time-consuming manual operations while maintaining or improving identification accuracy through consistent application of size thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous processing of pupae through automated imaging and elimination. Pupae are continuously fed through the system, imaged by the camera, analyzed by artificial vision, and eliminated if needed, without interruption for manual repositioning or inspection. This continuous operation dramatically reduces processing time while maintaining precision through automated size-based decision-making.
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 solution enables precise and efficient elimination of unwanted pupae, reducing labor and minimizing errors, while maintaining environmental safety by using non-insecticidal methods, thereby effectively controlling pest populations.
Implementation Method 1
destroying them, for example, by means of a high-precision high-frequency laser that directly kills said individuals
Implementation Method 2
Other mechanical methods for eliminating pupae from the flow (with or without destroying the pupa) would be to perform suction or blowing on a reject container
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a device and method for selectively eliminating aquatic pupae of insects having sexual dimorphism, which comprises: a supplier (1) of pupae (2) in an aquatic medium, on a transport system (3) formed by a mesh (5) that moves at a constant and uniform speed; a lighting system (8); one or more cameras (9, 9') connected to a computer vision system that locates the pupae (2) and measures their size; and a control system (4) that selects pupae (2) having a size above or below a certain threshold, to be shot by a laser (7). The method comprises the steps of supplying the pupae (2) in an aquatic medium to transport system (3) with a moving mesh (5); and taking an image of the set of pupae, classifying same and defining a threshold of separation between males and females so as to damage the selected pupae (2).