Root Plate Storage Layout for Compact Automated Rhizotrons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for studying plant roots require large operational areas and are complex, hindering efficient storage, development, and observation of plant root systems.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a system of guide structures, movable shelves, and a slidable platform with a robot for accessing and scanning root plates, allowing for compact storage and efficient observation of plant roots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If growth boxes are arranged in multiple rows with corridors for robot access, then automated observation is enabled, but the required operational area becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional horizontal arrangement of growth boxes in rows to a three-dimensional vertical stacking configuration. Multiple root observation devices are stacked vertically on support structures, allowing robots to access root plates from above through a single overhead corridor structure, thereby reducing the horizontal operational area while maintaining automated observation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple root observation devices (each containing growth boxes with root plates) vertically within a compact stacked arrangement. The devices are nested on top of each other on support structures, with the robot system nested within the overhead corridor structure, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the required operational footprint
2Ease of operation
If sufficient space is left between rows for robot access, then automated inspection is possible, but the system requires large area for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the access corridor from a horizontal configuration between rows to a vertical stacking arrangement where access is provided from above. The overhead corridor structure spans horizontally while the growth boxes are arranged vertically beneath it, allowing robot access without requiring large horizontal spacing between rows
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable shelves within the root observation devices that can be adjusted vertically. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to optimize space utilization and accommodate robot access requirements without fixed horizontal spacing, enabling flexible configuration that reduces overall installation area
3Quantity of substance
If multiple root plates are stored in compact arrangement, then storage capacity increases, but direct access to each plate becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage system into modular root observation devices, each containing multiple root plates arranged on separate movable shelves. Each shelf can be independently accessed and adjusted, allowing direct access to individual root plates within the compact stacked structure without requiring access to the entire storage array
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements movable shelves that can be vertically adjusted within the root observation devices. This dynamic mechanism allows individual shelves containing specific root plates to be moved into accessible positions, enabling direct access to any stored plate while maintaining high storage capacity in a compact vertical arrangement
Data Source
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AI summary
The current invention relates to a device for storage, development and observation of plant roots comprising, a first set of guiding elements supporting a plurality of movable shelves, which shelves are configured to store and permit access to a plurality of root plates. The device according to the invention is further provided with an access platform equipped with a slidable platform. Said platforms are configured to interact with the movable shelves in order to create corridors adjacent to each movable shelf and to permit an operator or a robot access to each of the stored root plates.