Abstract: Insect sorting conveyor systems include at least first and second insect conveyor stages. The first and second insect sorting conveyor stages each include an outwardly facing grasping surface forming at least part of a continuous loop having an upper section and a lower section, and an insect diverter positioned adjacent to the lower section. The second insect sorting conveyor stage is disposed below the first insect sorting conveyor stage.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an insect sorting system that includes a conveyor stage having a drive unit, a grasping surface movably coupled with the drive unit and having textured surface elements, and a diverter that is configured to remove insects from the grasping surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an insect sorting system that includes a conveyor stage having a drive unit, a grasping surface movably coupled with the drive unit and having textured surface elements, and a diverter that is configured to remove insects from the grasping surface.

Abstract: A system and method for logging a non-reader into a corresponding user account is disclosed. A system can include a processor, a user interface, a display, and a camera. The processor can be programmed to display a first plurality of pictures and configure the user interface to allow the user to select a first picture corresponding to the user from the first plurality of pictures to provide a first authentication step and allow the user to select a second picture from a second plurality of pictures providing a second authentication step. The system can log the user into the corresponding user account if the second picture selected from the second authentication step corresponds to the first picture selected from the first authentication step. A system and method for logging multiple users into corresponding user accounts is also disclosed.

Abstract: A handheld, hatchling holder not only simplifies manual examinations but also better protects the hatchling's welfare. The welfare concerns include not only bruising but also yolk-sac rupture. The handheld, hatchling holder has a cupped seat portion for cupping the ventral-end of a hatchling. The cupped seat portion is apertured, as with an opening. The hatchling is seated on the handheld, hatchling holder such that the cupped seat portion provides support to portions of the hatchling's perineal area that surrounds the alimentary vent (cloaca) as the alimentary vent is situated for exposure by the opening. The holder and opening facilitates not only welfare-friendly discharge of the meconium in the hatchling's alimentary vent through the opening but also welfare-friendly examination of the distended innards of the vent for markers of gender. The quality of the meconium discharge (or absence thereof) also facilitates determining whether the hatchling exceeds a hydration standard or not.

Abstract: A method for making a quality determination in avian eggs, such as relating to fertility or hatching or hatchling viability, comprises the following activities. A process line is equipped to process an endless succession of eggs at an early opportunity. The process line has an ultrasound inspection station for the eggs. The ultrasound inspection results are analyzed to make a finding correlatable to the egg's shell quality, which in turn is correlatable to such quality factors as fertility or hatching or hatchling viability. A sorting determination is made based on this analysis as to which output category the egg should be sorted. The output categories might number three or so including qualified premium as for graduation to hatchery operation, not qualified for hatchery but not waste, and flunked because unusable and hence waste. The intermediate category might include graded for pet consumption.

Abstract: A method for making a sex determination in avian hatchlings involves the following activities. A process line is equipped to process an endless plurality of hatchlings. The process line has an ultrasound inspection station for the hatchlings. The ultrasound inspection results are analyzed to find the presence of given sex-determinative structure for each hatchling. If the given sex-determinative structure is found then a first category assignment is made. The hatchling is sorted according to its category assignment. The category assignments might number two or three or so including positively-identified one sex, positively-identified other sex, and default to waste for any of various reasons.

Abstract: An electrical connector box adapted to be used in connection with the raised floor concept with a raised floor positioned above the main floor. A plurality of substantially rectangular openings are formed in the raised floor. A frame is positioned in the openings. The electrical connector box is lowered into engagement with the frame and into the space between the raised floor and the main floor. The electrical connector unit includes flange means which is adapted to rest adjacent the raised floor to suspend the electrical connector unit between the floors. The unit further includes flange means engaging the under-surface of the raised floor to maintain the unit in position. A sling or saddle-like structure extends downwardly from the electrical connector box into the space between the raised floor and is adapted to receive wires, cables and the like. There is a hinged top plate movable to a first position providing access to the interior of the electrical connector box and a second closed position.