Abstract: A vacuum pick-up device 20 includes a device body 22 having a pick-up tip opening 78 to which vacuum pressure is supplied. The vacuum pick-up device 20 further includes a mechanical release assisting device 36 that assists in the release of a grasped object contemporaneously with or slightly subsequent to the cessation of vacuum pressure. A manifold 38 may be included to efficiently and effectively supply vacuum pressure to the device body 22 from a vacuum pressure source.

Abstract: A seed rack (20) for use in assembling artificial seeds is provided. The seed rack includes base (22) having a length and a plurality of receptacles (26). Each one of the plurality of receptacles is sized and configured to receive at least one artificial seed coat (28) having an opening. The seed rack also includes a retaining arm (24) attached to the base for reciprocating movement between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the retaining arm clamps the at least one artificial seed coat within one of the plurality of receptacles and assists in positioning the opening of the at least one artificial seed coat within the seed rack.

Abstract: A vacuum pick-up device 20 includes a device body 22 having a pick-up tip opening 78 to which vacuum pressure is supplied. The vacuum pick-up device 20 further includes a mechanical release assisting device 36 that assists in the release of a grasped object contemporaneously with or slightly subsequent to the cessation of vacuum pressure. A manifold 38 may be included to efficiently and effectively supply vacuum pressure to the device body 22 from a vacuum pressure source.

Abstract: An apparatus for directing objects carried serially by a fluid to a desired designation is provided. The apparatus includes an upstream fluid conduit and first and second downstream conduits. The apparatus also includes a sensor associated with the upstream fluid conduit operable to provide information regarding an object at a location in the upstream conduit. A switch is coupled to the upstream fluid conduit and selectively operable to deliver the object from the upstream fluid conduit to either the first or second downstream fluid conduit according to the information by applying a force to at least one of the upstream or downstream fluid conduits.