Abstract: A seed handling tool includes a handle connected to a working body. The working body includes a working surface, which further includes a plurality of seed retention points. A seed retention source is provided to allow the seed handling tool to pick up and retain seeds at the seed retention points. In some embodiments, the seeds may also be released from the seed retention points. A method for retaining a plurality of seeds by the seed handling tool includes moving the seed handling tool to a position where the working surface is adjacent to a plurality of seeds, and picking up and retaining seeds at a plurality of seed retention points fixed at the working surface. In some embodiments, the method may also include releasing the plurality of seeds from the seed retention points.

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.

Abstract: A seed handling tool includes a handle connected to a working body. The working body includes a working surface, which further includes a plurality of seed retention points. A seed retention source is provided to allow the seed handling tool to pick up and retain seeds at the seed retention points. In some embodiments, the seeds may also be released from the seed retention points. A method for retaining a plurality of seeds by the seed handling tool includes moving the seed handling tool to a position where the working surface is adjacent to a plurality of seeds, and picking up and retaining seeds at a plurality of seed retention points fixed at the working surface. In some embodiments, the method may also include releasing the plurality of seeds from the seed retention points.

Abstract: An apparatuses, methods and systems for creating, handling and collecting seed portions are highly beneficial. The apparatus includes a carrier having one or more carrying positions adapted to carry a seed. The carrying positions having a seed orienter adapted to orient the seed relative to the carrying position in the carrier for creating seed portions therefrom. The method includes taking a carrier having one or more carrying positions, orienting a seed relative to the carrying position in the carrier, ablating the seed with a seed ablation device, and communicating seed portions through a manifold into a compartment layer. The system includes a seed manifold adapted to dock thereon a seed carrier having pre-positioned and pre-oriented seed therein. Seed and seed portions removed from the seed in the carrier are communicated into a collector and compartment layer respectively using the seed manifold.

Abstract: A seed handling tool includes a handle connected to a working body. The working body includes a working surface, which further includes a plurality of seed retention points. A seed retention source is provided to allow the seed handling tool to pick up and retain seeds at the seed retention points. In some embodiments, the seeds may also be released from the seed retention points. A method for retaining a plurality of seeds by the seed handling tool includes moving the seed handling tool to a position where the working surface is adjacent to a plurality of seeds, and picking up and retaining seeds at a plurality of seed retention points fixed at the working surface. In some embodiments, the method may also include releasing the plurality of seeds from the seed retention points.

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.

Abstract: An oilseed press of the present invention is adapted to extract oil from oilseeds. The oilseed press includes a base plate having a raised surface with straight and tapered edges. A cylindrical sleeve also has a tapered edge at one end and is adapted to slide over the raised portion of the base plate forming a tight fit between the tapered portions and forming a gap between the straight edge and the sleeve. A plunger is adapted to slide within the sleeve. By applying pressure to the plunger the oilseeds are crushed between the plunger and the raised surface of the base plate. Oil collects within the gap and exits the gap through a notch formed in the tapered surface where it collects in a well. The pressure is applied by a linear actuator having a rubber bumper assembly. When the clutch of the linear actuator begins to slip, the bumper assembly maintains a high pressure on the plunger.

Abstract: An oilseed press of the present invention is adapted to extract oil from oilseeds. The oilseed press includes a base plate having a raised surface with straight and tapered edges. A cylindrical sleeve also has a tapered edge at one end and is adapted to slide over the raised portion of the base plate forming a tight fit between the tapered portions and forming a gap between the straight edge and the sleeve. A plunger is adapted to slide within the sleeve. By applying pressure to the plunger the oilseeds are crushed between the plunger and the raised surface of the base plate. Oil collects within the gap and exits the gap through a notch formed in the tapered surface where it collects in a well. The pressure is applied by a linear actuator having a rubber bumper assembly. When the clutch of the linear actuator begins to slip, the bumper assembly maintains a high pressure on the plunger.