System, method, and computer program product for automated high-throughput seed sample aliquot preparation, treatment and dispersal

A system for segregating a seed aliquot from a bulk sample and preparing the seed aliquot for planting in an agricultural research plot based at least in part on a research protocol, the system comprising:

• a counter device located on a conveyance path, the counter device being configured to receive at least a portion of the bulk sample and to separate the seed aliquot from the portion of the bulk sample such that the seed aliquot includes a selected number of seeds;
• and
• a packaging device in communication with the counter device and located on the conveyance path downstream of the counter device, the packaging device being configured to receive the separated seed aliquot and to dispense the seed aliquot into an aliquot container,
• wherein the aliquot container comprises a well portion for receiving the seed aliquot and a lid portion for securing the seed aliquot within the well portion and wherein the packaging device comprises:
• a packaging conveyor, the packaging conveyor being configured to advance the aliquot container to a filling position in communication with the conveyance path;
• an automated arm element, the automated arm element being configured to place an open aliquot container on the packaging conveyor;
• a static wedge disposed adjacent to the packaging conveyor for at least partially closing the lid portion relative to the well portion of the aliquot container;
• and
• a plurality of wheels disposed adjacent to the packaging conveyor downstream of the static wedge and configured to secure the lid portion in a closed position relative to the well portion of the aliquot container.