Automated Phenotyping Line of the Future
48 ǀ POSITIV TECHNOLOGY
TECHNOLOGY | TECH+
Automated Phenotyping
Line of the Future:
How Murrelektronik Components
Are Helping to Transform Plant Research
Plant phenotyping and its significance
Phenotyping is a field that studies how genetic
makeup influences the specific traits of an organism.
At the Plant Phenotyping Centre of the University
of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland, researchers focus
on a wide range of experiments – from testing plant
resistance to drought and different types of fertilisers
to monitoring genetically modified lines. Their main
objective is to understand how plants respond
to stress conditions such as nutrient deficiencies, pest
infestations, or sudden temperature fluctuations.
To measure these responses, they use advanced
spectral cameras and sensors capable of non-invasive
real-time monitoring of growth, water content,
and other physiological parameters. The practical
outcome of this research is the development
of optimised cultivation practices – efficient irrigation,
sustainable fertilisation, and crop protection – that not
only reduce environmental impact but also increase
yields.
How the new phenotyping line was created
For such demanding research, it was necessary
to build a unique phenotyping line capable of handling
various imaging methods (including fluorescence),
allowing flexible adjustments to plant conditions
while maintaining high capacity. The most effective
solution proved to be the system developed by the
Czech company Photon Systems Instruments (PSI).
Its technology enables precise interventions – such
as targeted irrigation of individual plants – while
providing a wide range of recordings, from RGB
to spectral. A decisive factor was also the favourable
price and the option to configure the entire system
to specific requirements.
Launched in 2022, the line combines conveyor
systems, growth chambers, and stations equipped
with various sensors and cameras. It not only makes
it possible to monitor key plant parameters but also
to simulate specific conditions – for example,
adaptation to darkness, sudden exposure to light,
or testing under different light spectra. The system
also includes a spraying unit and offers remote control
along with complete data backup.
The role of Murrelektronik components
To ensure the line operates reliably and without
interruption, Murrelektronik components were
selected for their proven durability and technical
specifications. Central to the system are robust data
cables supporting the EtherCAT protocol, essential for
the precise collection of data from dozens of sensors
and control units. Murrelektronik supplied cables
in various lengths at competitive prices and helped
resolve the issue of cable breakage in energy chains.
Equally important are the M12 panel feed-throughs,
which, thanks to their IP67 protection rating, guarantee
reliability even in demanding environments. Their
quick and easy installation simplifies the construction
of the entire system and reduces the time required for
maintenance.
Reliable power supply and data backup
The line is powered by 48V three-phase Emparro power
supplies, which can deliver a short-term performance
boost – up to 150% for five seconds and, in HyperBoost
mode, up to 400% for 20 ms. This makes them capable
of handling peak loads, such as when conveyor motors
start up, while at the same time minimising heat loss
in control cabinets.
The system also includes a UPS module with
a maintenance-free battery, safeguarding data
in the event of power outages. This is particularly
crucial during long-term experiments, where the loss
of measurement protocols would mean having
to repeat entire tests.