Researcher(s)
- Doris Cao, , University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Erin Sparks, Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
Research devices are valuable tools for measuring the biomechanics of maize. These devices allow researchers to quantify root and stalk systems within maize to detect plant diseases and assess the effects of different plant genotypes. The Sorghum and Maize Under Rotational Force (SMURF) device is designed to measure root system stiffness by extending a lead screw to cause a 6 degree rotation at the base of a plant. The Plant Pusher device is designed to push the plant to measure stalk mechanics and stiffness.
Several modifications were implemented on these devices to enhance the functionality and efficiency for more comprehensive data collection. For the SMURF device, changes were made to prevent inconsistent robotic movements and increase data resolution. Additionally, the device’s flexibility and versatility were improved with the implementation of a user input field in the interface that allows for custom distance movement. These modifications led to more thorough tests and minimized the damage inflicted on the plant. In the future, these implementations will enable the SMURF to be scaled down to perform tests on younger plants for earlier diagnostics. The Plant Pusher device’s interface was redesigned to reduce user-error and improve the usability in the testing environment. This included improved color schemes, rearranged buttons, and a reduction in the number of buttons by combining functions. These changes made the interface more accessible and adaptable to different environments. In the future, this interface will be further scaled down to make it more universally accessible through an Android app.
As a result of these improvements, testing times were reduced and the usability increased.