Terahertz Spectroscopy Seed Classification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for classifying and sorting seeds, such as X-ray diagnostics and computed tomography, are either harmful, complex, or limited in accuracy, failing to provide high-quality seeds with precise differentiation and automation in the seed preparation process.

Innovation Solution

The use of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to classify and sort seeds based on morphological structures and parameters, allowing for non-destructive, automated, and high-accuracy differentiation of seed quality classes without ionizing radiation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If X-ray diagnostics are used for seed quality control, then measurement precision is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to ionizing radiation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseed quality assessment accuracyVSAvoidionizing radiation harm to seeds and personnel

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces X-ray diagnostics with terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, substituting ionizing radiation with non-ionizing terahertz electromagnetic radiation. This allows for high-precision seed quality assessment while eliminating harmful effects to both seeds and personnel, as terahertz radiation does not damage biological material.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electromagnetic radiation parameter from ionizing X-ray frequencies to non-ionizing terahertz frequencies (0.1-10 THz). This parameter change maintains the ability to penetrate and analyze seed internal structures while removing the harmful ionizing effects, enabling safe and accurate seed classification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Extent of automation

If computed tomography is used for automated seed classification, then extent of automation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated seed classification capabilityVSAvoidCT system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the complex CT system components (sample changers, complex image processing systems) while retaining the essential automated classification function. By using terahertz spectroscopy instead of CT, the system achieves automation through a simpler, more direct measurement approach that requires less complex hardware and software infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the complex mechanical and computational CT system with a simpler terahertz time-domain spectroscopy system. This substitution maintains automated classification capabilities while dramatically reducing device complexity by using direct spectral measurement instead of complex tomographic reconstruction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If IR spectroscopy is used for seed classification, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to limited informative value

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational simplicityVSAvoidseed class assignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the spectroscopic parameter from infrared frequencies to terahertz frequencies (0.1-10 THz). This parameter change provides access to additional spectral information related to water content and molecular vibrations that are not accessible in the IR range, thereby improving measurement precision for seed classification while maintaining ease of operation through automated spectral analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Achieves high sorting accuracy of at least 75% and enables automated, non-destructive classification and sorting of seeds, improving seed quality and process efficiency by distinguishing between different seed classes with minimal error.

Implementation Method 1

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) uses terahertz radiation to examine samples. This technique is suitable for quantitatively and qualitatively determining parameters of a wide variety of materials

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTerahertz time-domain spectroscopy: Absorption Spectroscopy

Implementation Method 2

measuring the signal that the terahertz pulse generates after transmission and / or reflection through the seed grain

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation transmission and reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentEP3730928A1Method for classifying seeds

Publication Date: 2020.10.28 KWS SAAT SE & CO KGAA

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to methods for classifying and/or sorting seeds using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, the use of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy for classifying and/or sorting seeds, and the use of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy for characterizing morphological structures of seeds relating to the arrangement of structural elements inside the seed, in particular the presence of two embryos in one seed coat or the presence of two embryos in two seed coats.