Automated Seed Sorting System with Vacuum Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sorting small objects such as seeds, pharmaceutical tablets, and small electrical components is cumbersome and prone to human error due to the complexity of manual processes, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in sorting and analysis.
Innovation Solution
An automated sorting system comprising a tray subsystem, de-lidding subsystem, extraction subsystem, and collection subsystem that removes trays from a cart, extracts seeds, and directs them into receptacles based on specific attributes, using pneumatic operations and vacuum systems for precise handling and sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual sorting processes are used for small objects, then human operators can handle the sorting task, but the process becomes cumbersome and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sorting operations with an automated system that uses imaging technology, computational analysis, and robotic manipulation. The system captures images of seeds, analyzes them computationally to identify attributes, and uses a robotic arm with vacuum gripper to physically sort them, eliminating human error while maintaining operational simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service sorting where the seeds themselves are analyzed and sorted based on their inherent attributes. The imaging system captures seed characteristics, the computational system determines sorting categories based on those characteristics, and the robotic system executes the sorting without human intervention, allowing the process to serve itself autonomously.
2Productivity
If automated systems are implemented for sorting small objects, then efficiency and precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sorting system is divided into distinct functional modules: an imaging subsystem for capturing seed images, a computational subsystem for analyzing images and determining sorting categories, and a robotic subsystem for physical manipulation and sorting. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while working together to achieve high sorting efficiency with manageable overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm with vacuum gripper serves multiple functions: it positions seeds for imaging, captures seeds based on computational decisions, and deposits them into appropriate receptacles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby improving productivity while controlling device complexity through versatile, multi-purpose elements.
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 automated system significantly reduces human error and increases efficiency in sorting small objects by enabling precise and accurate sorting and alignment of seeds and other small items into designated receptacles, improving the reliability of the sorting process.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum system configured to create negative pressure throughout the sorting system to hold and transport seeds
Implementation Method 2
pneumatic operations and vacuum systems for precise handling and sorting
Data Source
AI summary
An automating seed sorting system is provided comprising a tray subsystem, a de-lidding subsystem, an extraction subsystem, and a collection subsystem. The tray subsystem is configured to remove at least one tray from a cart and, subsequently, return the at least one tray to the cart. The de-lidding subsystem is structured and operable to remove a lid from the at least one tray. The extraction subsystem is configured to extract one or more seeds from the at least one tray and release the one or more seeds into a funnel assembly. And, the collection subsystem includes the funnel assembly, wherein the collection subsystem is structured and operable to align at least one receptacle with the funnel assembly and direct the one or more seeds into the at least one receptacle via the funnel assembly.