Automated plant tissue sampling using a legged robot platform
A modular, autonomous legged robot platform for efficient plant tissue sampling in diverse terrains, offering real-time or offline data processing, with potential for open-field plot grid creation.
Overview
The automated plant tissue sampling system leverages a four-legged robot platform designed for versatility and efficiency in agricultural environments. Capable of navigating both greenhouses and unstructured farm fields, this technology aims to enhance plant sampling processes through modularity and scalability. With AI-driven plant and crop identification, it ensures precise tissue sampling, thereby optimizing analysis and diagnosis. The platform's adaptability to various terrains and weather conditions makes it a valuable asset for real-time data collection and offline processing, maximizing resource efficiency and operational longevity.
Technical specifications
- Legged Robot Platform: Designed for stability and flexibility, capable of navigating challenging terrains including greenhouses and open fields.
- Six-Degrees of Freedom Robotic Arm: Mounted on the robot, it facilitates accurate and efficient plant tissue sampling.
- AI-Driven Identification: Utilizes advanced algorithms for plant and crop recognition to enhance sampling accuracy.
- Modularity: The platform's design supports customization and expansion, allowing it to be repurposed for tasks such as open-field plot grid creation.
- Sensors: Equipped with cameras, LIDAR, and CMAC for comprehensive environmental perception.
Technology readiness level
The current development of this technology is at TRL 3, indicating that active research and development are underway, with system integration, navigation, and plant recognition being key focus areas. Future plans include enhancing sampling efficiency and conducting demonstrations to engage stakeholders.
About Northern Illinois University
NIU is a comprehensive public research university headquartered in DeKalb with a multi‑campus footprint across the Chicago area. Through its Office of Innovation, companies have a single entry point to the university, with options to co‑locate via flexible office and lab leasing and engage faculty and student talent. Regional centers in Naperville, Hoffman Estates and Rockford connect partners to the suburban corporate base, supported by a university‑operated business incubator in Rockford. Research is supported by competitive federal funding and strengthened by collaborations with nearby national laboratories. A dedicated technology transfer office and a university‑affiliated research foundation provide IP management, licensing, sponsored research support and startup services.
delivered to your inbox.