Automated high-throughput seed processing apparatus

US8943785B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC. · US

Inventors

• Roger Blickhan · Des Moines, US
• Bruce E. Cadwell · Johnston, US
• Joseph L. Glaubitz · Johnston, US
• David W. Goldsberry · Linden, US
• Michael E. Hartman · Des Moines, US
• Kent Hoeppner · Dallas Center, US
• James L. Hunter · Ankeny, US
• Timothy P. Meyer · Des Moines, US
• Andrew Nickerson · San Diego, US
• Lyndon J. Schroeder · Urbandale, US
• Mark W. Spicer · Ankeny, US
• Timothy Joseph Wilhelm · Peoria, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 20, 2009
• Grant date: Feb 3, 2015
• Expiry date: Sep 1, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q30/0607
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An apparatus and method for automated high-throughput processing seed requests or orders includes an autonomous single seed counter and packager which operates by pre-programmed criteria. Optional features can include a thresher, a spiral separator, and a label applicator. A conveyance path, controlled automatically, can move the seed to appropriate and desired stations during the processing while maintaining segregation from subsequent seed being processed. Validation of the seed request matching the sample requested occurs prior to processing and information about the seed to process or having been processed can be derived and stored for further use.