Iowa State University Research Foundation Inc

Taejoon Kong

Santosh Pandey

Zach L Njus

Jared L Anderson

Gregory L Tylka

Riley Brien

Jared P Jensen

Christopher M Legner

Augustine Beeman

Upender Kalwa

Leland E Harker

A system, method, and apparatus for quantification of pre-determined particles in a soil or feces sample with certain automated steps. In one aspect it includes an input station for inputting a soil or feces sample; a sieving/filtering station for separating soil or feces from particles or particle carriers, and/or separating particle carriers from particles; and a collection station for receiving the extracted particles. It can include quantification of the collected sample with an imaging station to digitally image the particles and recognize and count the particles collected. A mechanism can mechanically move the filtered particles from the sieve/filter station to the collection station. A controller can be programmed to automatically control at least certain functions of the mechanism. An optional feature includes acquisition of chemical, biological, physical, or other parameters of the sample with one or more sensors positioned or positionable at the sample.

Methods, apparatus, and systems to extract and quantify minute objects from soil or feces, including plant-parasitic nematode pests and their eggs in soil

Apparatus, methods, and systems for automated liquid droplet manipulation include an open droplet supporting surface. An actuator can translate the surface in space with at least one degree freedom of movement to influence movement of one or more droplets on the surface. In one embodiment, the surface is patterned with areas that attract the droplets and interstitial areas that repel the droplets to enhance transport of droplets. For example, for water-based droplets the attracting areas can be hydrophilic and the repelling hydrophobic. In one embodiment, the repelling areas are superhydrophobic. Electromechanical movement of the surface avoids expensive and complex microfluidic fabrication and components, and avoids electrowetting requirements.

Droplet actuator and methods of droplet manipulation

Growing community of inventors

Ames, IA, United States of America

Taejoon Kong