Phenoscanner

In seed breeding, obtaining reliable insights into the performance of different varieties is crucial. One of the key challenges in this process is conducting a high-throughput analysis of the yield and quality of the resulting crops. This requires precise phenotyping – the detailed measurement and analysis of physical and biological traits – particularly for vegetables, where subtle differences can make a significant impact on crop selection and agricultural success.

To address this challenge, we have developed the Phenoscanner, an advanced yet user-friendly solution designed to streamline the phenotyping process. The Phenoscanner leverages state-of-the-art image analysis technology to provide rapid, accurate evaluations of crop performance, allowing researchers and breeders to identify the most successful varieties efficiently.

How the Phenoscanner Works

The Phenoscanner consists of a conveyor belt and imaging cabin. Batches of harvested products are introduced at the input side by pouring them onto the conveyor, which gently transports them through the photo cabin for analysis. Once the imaging process is complete, the vegetables are collected at the output side in bins.

A QR scanner allows the batch code associated with the experiment to be scanned, ensuring an unambiguous link between the objects on the conveyor and the results.

Advanced Imaging Technology

The heart of the Phenoscanner is its photo cabin, equipped with two strips of stable LED lighting that provide uniform, white illumination. Positioned between the two LED strips is a high-performance line-scan camera, which captures images at a rate of 20 meter per minute. The scan lines are seamlessly assembled by the PC into a continuous, high-resolution image, often referred to as an “infinite photo.”

Ensuring Consistency Through Calibration

To guarantee consistent imaging conditions, the Phenoscanner is equipped with a dual calibration system and a verification tool. The first calibration is spatial, ensuring that all captured images are geometrically consistent. The second calibration focuses on color, maintaining uniformity in color representation across all samples. The verification process is very straightforward: users simply place the appropriate verification plate on the conveyor and initiate the corresponding verification procedure. This ensures that every analysis is conducted under standardized and reproducible conditions, which is essential for meaningful comparisons and reliable results.

Comprehensive Image Analysis

Once the imaging process is complete, the data can be analyzed using our in-house developed image analysis software. This software is designed to operate offline, allowing users to conduct detailed analyses without requiring constant connectivity.

WIWAM can offer customized image analysis, including a wide range of features, such as:

• Product count: Assess the number of harvested products for each batch
• Surface area: Measuring the total visible surface of the vegetable.
• Length and width: Providing dimensions for size assessments.
• Rectangularity: Evaluating the shape uniformity of the samples.
• Color: Capturing and analyzing color variations to assess ripeness, health, or other traits.
• Spots and defects: Detecting irregularities or blemishes on the surface.
• Custom features: Tailored analysis parameters can be added based on specific research needs.

Tailored to Your Needs

Every Phenoscanner is custom-built to meet the unique requirements of our clients. From the mechanical design to the software capabilities, the system can be adapted to handle specific crop types and research goals.

Empowering Seed Breeding

The Phenoscanner represents a significant advancement in seed breeding and crop phenotyping. By combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on simplicity and efficiency, it provides breeders and researchers with a powerful tool to accelerate their work. With its ability to deliver high-throughput analysis and comprehensive insights, the Phenoscanner supports the development of high-performing, resilient crops that meet the demands of modern agriculture.