Norman Richard Knowles

Title: The Innovations of Norman Richard Knowles

Introduction

Norman Richard Knowles is a notable inventor based in Edmonton, Canada. He has made significant contributions to the field of agriculture, particularly in improving the quality characteristics of potatoes. His innovative work has implications for the storage and longevity of this essential crop.

Latest Patents

Knowles holds a patent for "Potatoes having improved quality characteristics and methods for their production." This patent focuses on potato plants that exhibit reduced levels of .alpha. glucan L-type tuber phosphorylase (GLTP) or .alpha. glucan H-type tuber phosphorylase (GHTP) enzyme activity within the potato tuber. The invention aims to reduce the conversion of starches to sugars in potato tubers, especially when stored at temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius. By reducing cold-sweetening in potatoes, Knowles' method allows for storage at cooler temperatures, which results in prolonged dormancy, reduced incidence of disease, and increased storage life.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Knowles has worked with Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Agri-food Canada. His work has been instrumental in advancing agricultural practices and enhancing the quality of potato crops.

Collaborations

Knowles has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including Lawrence Michael Kawchuk and John David Armstrong. These partnerships have contributed to the development and success of his innovative projects.

Conclusion

Norman Richard Knowles is a distinguished inventor whose work has significantly impacted the agricultural sector, particularly in potato quality and storage. His innovative approaches continue to influence practices in crop management and storage techniques.