Seed Classification via Light Sectioning and Radiography
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seed processing methods are inefficient and labor-intensive, particularly in separating monogerm and bigerm tangles, and in achieving high throughput for seed classification, due to the irregular three-dimensional structure of sugar beet seeds, which complicates mechanical application and results in inadequate seed quality.
Innovation Solution
A method using non-invasive light section techniques combined with spectroscopic and imaging methods for three-dimensional measurement and classification of seeds, allowing for simultaneous examination of multiple seeds and determination of spatial features, anatomical, and morphological properties, enabling precise shape and size calibration without mechanical influence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional mechanical sieving methods are used for seed classification, then the process is simple to implement, but the separation of monogerm and bigerm tangles is inadequate and seed quality is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sieving systems with optical measurement systems (light section method) and automated classification systems. This substitution enables precise three-dimensional measurement of seed geometry and internal structure, allowing adequate separation of monogerm and bigerm tangles based on their distinct geometric and radiographic characteristics, thereby resolving the inadequacy of conventional mechanical methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the classification parameters from simple mechanical size sorting to multi-parameter analysis including three-dimensional shape parameters, surface characteristics, and internal density distribution obtained through light section method and radiography. This enables differentiation of seeds based on their monogerm or bigerm status, achieving high separation quality despite increased measurement complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple separate processing machines are used, then different processing steps can be performed, but the settings must be adjusted and seeds must be transported between machines, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate processing functions into a single integrated processing line. The light section method measurement system, radiographic examination system, and classification system operate simultaneously on seeds moving through a continuous flow, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines and intermediate transport steps. This integration dramatically increases throughput while maintaining comprehensive seed analysis capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated processing system performs multiple functions simultaneously: three-dimensional shape measurement, surface characteristic analysis, internal structure examination via radiography, and classification. This multi-functional system replaces several specialized machines, achieving high productivity without sacrificing the depth of seed analysis required for quality classification.
3Productivity
If seeds are examined individually using conventional methods, then detailed measurement is possible, but the throughput is low and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual individual seed examination with automated optical measurement systems using the light section method. This substitution enables simultaneous measurement of multiple seeds in rapid succession while maintaining detailed three-dimensional measurement precision. The system captures complete geometric and surface characteristic data for each seed automatically, achieving both high throughput and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous measurement and classification of seeds as they flow through the processing line, rather than batch-by-batch individual examination. The light section method system continuously captures three-dimensional data for each seed, and the classification system continuously sorts seeds based on their measured characteristics. This continuous operation dramatically increases throughput while maintaining detailed measurement capability for every seed.
4Ease of operation
If irregular three-dimensional seed structure is accommodated by conventional methods, then all seeds can be processed, but mechanical application in the field becomes difficult and pelleting is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses light section method measurement to precisely determine three-dimensional shape parameters of each seed, including irregular geometries. Based on these measurements, seeds are classified and sorted into groups with similar shape characteristics. This enables selection of seeds with optimal geometric properties for direct mechanical sowing, eliminating the need for pelleting while maintaining high mechanical applicability. The system achieves both shape uniformity and ease of mechanical application by selecting from naturally occurring seeds with favorable three-dimensional characteristics.
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
This approach enables rapid, reliable, and efficient classification and sorting of seeds, reducing the need for pelleting, improving seed applicability, and achieving high purity and homogeneity, with a throughput of approximately 7,000,000 particles per hour, resulting in improved field emergence and reduced costs.
Implementation Method 1
a light section method is used as at least one non-invasive method, by means of which the objects are measured three-dimensionally
Implementation Method 2
a second, also known detector (for example an X-ray device) to determine the degree of absorption of a certain electromagnetic radiation by the seed
Implementation Method 3
a first, known detector (for example an optical length measuring device) for determining a mechanical dimension of the seed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2F
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention concerns a method for classifying (704) objects (3) contained in seed lots, in which characteristics of the objects (3) are determined using at least one non-invasive process (702, 703), wherein a light-sectioning procedure (702), by means of which the objects (3) are three-dimensionally recorded and at least one spatial characteristic of the objects (3) is determined, is used as at least one non-invasive process (602, 603), and wherein characteristics which have been determined by the laser light-sectioning procedure (702) or by the laser light-sectioning procedure (702) and at least one further non-invasive process (602, 603) are used jointly for describing the objects (3) to perform the classification.