See how imaging reveals hidden seed traits.
FAQ
Get answers to discover how
Get answers to discover how
SeedTelligence can help your business.
What is SeedTelligence?
SeedTelligence is a joint brand established by both phenoLytics and PhenoKey. The SeedTelligence brand represents ready to use solutions for high quality data and quality measurements and solutions for Seeds and Seedlings.
What is the history of SeedTelligence
SeedTelligence marks the next step in the long-standing collaboration between phenoLytics, PhenoKey, and their partner Fraunhofer. It is built on the shared belief in the potential of seed and seedling solutions developed by phenoLytics and Fraunhofer, combined with PhenoKey’s expertise in manufacturing and implementing X-ray CT solutions in crop science.
To better convey the strength of these solutions and the joint capabilities of the partners, SeedTelligence was established as a shared brand. It represents solutions that are developed, validated, and ready for seamless deployment in clients’ processes.
Is SeedTelligence a company?
SeedTelligence is a shared brand, not a separate company. Business is handled through PhenoKey in close collaboration with phenoLytics.
What is your interaction with the Fraunhofer Institute?
We have collaborated for over 25 years on hardware, software, AI development, and have collaboratied in implementing large-scale X-ray phenotyping facilities worldwide. Additionally Fraunhofer's infrastructure can be used to perform specific trials with clients.
Can systems be adapted to meet specific requirements?
Yes. Each purchase starts with a proof-of-concept, after which systems are customized and configured in hardware, software, and automation level to fit your processes.
Can the systems be inspected in use?
Yes. Our systems are validated and in daily use by leading breeding companies. Visits can be arranged on request.
Where is morphological phenotypic data needed?
It is essential for research and optimization of seeds and plants, providing reproducible, quantitative ground-truth data.
What are the advantages of 3D X-ray?
3D X-ray reveals hidden internal structures, measures biomass directly, and enables non-destructive 4D tracking with high throughput.
What crops can the phenoTest be used for?
It has been validated on more than 80 plant species, from fine grasses to forestry seeds, with no practical limitations found.
What degree of automation is possible?
Full automation is possible, including climate chambers, sowing, and watering. Modular setups allow flexibility for different needs and step-by-step automation of processes.
What solutions do you offer for seed phenotyping?
We offer phenoCheck for bulk seeds and phenoTest for germinating seeds on filter paper, phenoMatch is used to connect seed traits to resulting germination result on single seed level and phenoScort is the high throuhgput sorting solution
Do images need to be analysed by staff to get phenotypic data?
No. Image analysis is automated, reducing manual work and ensuring consistency.
What are the advantages of combined 3D laser / 2D X-ray sorting?
It enables classification by shape, surface features, and internal structures, achieving separations not possible with conventional methods.
What is the sorting throughput in industrial use?
Our sorters process around 300,000 objects per minute in industrial use, with new systems expected to match or exceed this speed. Also smaller lower throughput options are possible.
What happens with my data?
All data remains on your premises. Only with explicit consent may it be used for specific support or development activities for your system.
Who owns the data?
The client always owns their data. SeedTelligence partners retain ownership of deployed algorithms.
With whom do I do business?
All SeedTelligence projects are contracted through PhenoKey, who coordinates activities with partners.
Are there patents involved?
Yes. Several solutions are patent-protected. Clients receive the necessary rights to use supplied equipment and solutions.
Is it safe to operate X-ray systems?
Yes. Our systems comply with CE and typically to any local safety regulations worldwide. We provide guidance on required permits and safety officers.
Why 3D X-ray CT?
X-ray CT captures full 3D internal structures, enabling richer data and better integration into digital quality systems.
What is data interoperability?
It means different systems and decision points can share and use data seamlessly for consistent and efficient decision-making.
What determines interoperable use of data?
Interoperability requires standardized, objective ground-truth data like that from X-ray CT, not subjective or inconsistent proxies.
Why is it relevant to interconnect data?
Interconnected data creates a unified view across the seed value chain, enabling stronger insights and continuous improvement.
How do you use AI?
We apply AI where it adds clear value, focusing on biologically relevant, traceable insights rather than over relying black-box predictions.
Who are the typical clients of SeedTelligence?
SeedTelligence solutions are designed for seed companies, plant breeders, and crop protection companies that require reliable, high-quality seed and seedling data. These can either be small, mid- or large size organizations.
What challenges does SeedTelligence solve in the seed and breeding industry?
SeedTelligence helps overcome bottlenecks in seed quality testing, reduces reliance on manual scoring, and delivers reproducible, ground-truth data that accelerates decision-making across the value chain. It is our objective to Unlock Value for our customers.
How does SeedTelligence differ from other seed technology providers?
Unlike conventional solutions, SeedTelligence integrates advanced X-ray CT imaging, automation, and AI to deliver validated, ready-to-use systems tailored to client needs. SeedTelligence is additionally focused on generating interoperable, re-usable data to create compounding value opportunities for our clients.
What is the typical process from first contact to system deployment?
The process usually starts with an introduction and needs assessment, followed by a proof-of-concept, solution design, customization, installation, training, and ongoing support.
Do you offer training and support for new users?
Yes. Training, user documentation, and support are provided to ensure smooth adoption. Remote and on-site options are available. SeedTelligence partners are equipped to both deliver professional technical and application support to help clients get the most out of their systems.
Can existing lab or greenhouse setups be integrated with SeedTelligence systems?
Yes. Our systems are modular and can be integrated into existing infrastructures with minimal disruption.
How do SeedTelligence solutions compare to traditional phenotyping methods?
Unlike methods based on surface traits, SeedTelligence uses biomass-based analysis, delivering results closer to biological ground truth.
Do operators need special training or permits for using X-ray equipment?
Depending on local regulations, an appointed radiation officer may be required. We provide guidance and training as needed.
How do you support clients with regulatory approval in different regions?
SeedTelligence can assist with documentation, safety evaluations, and liaison with local authorities to meet regional compliance requirements.
Can I centrally analyze data that has been acquired in different hubs?
Yes. Multiple devices can run the same algorithms and produce comparable measurements. Because SeedTelligence algorithms extract seed and seedling organ biomass, results are harmonized across locations and can be analyzed centrally.
Do I need all modules at once?
No. SeedTelligence is modular. You can start small with one function and scale up as your needs grow.
How is data quality ensured across locations?
The algorithms extract biomass-based traits, enabling harmonized results independent of device or location.
Can SeedTelligence predict germination performance?
Yes. By connecting seed quality traits to germination outcomes, SeedTelligence helps predict performance with high accuracy.
How does SeedTelligence help address labor shortages?
By automating seed and seedling quality assessment, SeedTelligence reduces reliance on manual labor and enables teams to focus on higher-value tasks.
Is SeedTelligence suitable in a deglobalizing supply chain?
It enables distributed operations: local hubs can analyze on-site, while data is harmonized centrally for global decision-making.
How does SeedTelligence contribute to sustainability in the supply chain?
By enabling on-site quality assessment, SeedTelligence reduces the need to ship seeds to central labs. This lowers transportation emissions and avoids unnecessary handling of seed lots.
How does SeedTelligence help improve forecasting?
By shortening lead times and delivering more accurate data, SeedTelligence enables better forecasting. This reduces surplus production and avoids costly ad-hoc productions.
Can’t find your answer?
If your question isn’t covered in our FAQ, our team is here to help. Reach out to us directly and we’ll provide the information you need to get the most out of SeedTelligence.
