Single rail parallel robot for efficient plant tissue sampling

Overview

The proposed solution is a single rail parallel robot system designed to enhance plant tissue sampling in greenhouses. This innovative robotic system offers a high level of efficiency, speed, and accuracy by utilizing delta-like robot manipulators mounted on a single rail. The system incorporates multiple cameras, sensors, and specialized tools, making it more effective than traditional serial robots. Additionally, the rail-mounted design offers simplicity, lower maintenance costs, and ease of operation, providing safe and efficient movements across three coordinate axes in both vertical and horizontal farming environments.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Single rail system: Utilizes delta-like manipulators for enhanced precision and speed.
• Advanced sensor integration: Includes RGB and depth cameras for 3D point cloud generation and high-accuracy visual servoing.
• Robotic gripper end-effector: Features a mini-cut hole saw or retractable picker with a suction system for safe and efficient plant tissue collection.
• Automated sample storage: Connects directly to a 96-well SBS format plate via a two-axis sample positioning mechanism.
• Modular design: Magnetic and mechanical coupling with carbon-fiber bars for robust structural integrity.

Technology readiness level

The technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating that experimental proof-of-concept has been achieved. The development plan includes further validation activities, such as system integration, testing, and optimization, with a complete proof-of-concept design and implementation scheduled within the next year.