WO2022016237A1

WO2022016237A1 - Seed malting system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2022016237A1
Application number: PCT/AU2021/050808
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Tucek; Qisen Zhang
Original assignee: Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre Limited
Priority date: 2020-07-24
Filing date: 2021-07-26
Publication date: 2022-01-27

Abstract

A system is provided for subjecting one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds to malting processes defined by malting protocols, the system being adapted to conduct during a single malting cycle, a particular malting process on each seed sample, wherein each particular malting process conducted on a particular seed sample is controlled by a malting protocol that differs from the malting protocols applied to the other seed samples. In particular a system and method for subjecting one or more seed samples to malting processes defined by malting protocols, the system comprising an area adapted (1) for controlling within an inner space of the area a particular temperature and (2) for containment in separate containers of at least two seed samples selected from a single or from a plurality batches of the seeds, the system further comprising fluid delivery means for delivering fluid at a particular moment of time, at a particular flowrate and during a particular period of time to the containers, and fluid collection means for collecting the fluid exiting the containers being adapted to allow fluid flow between the interior and exterior of the containers, and a control system for controlling the fluid delivery and collection means and controlling the temperature within the inner space.

Description

SEED MALTING SYSTEM AND METHOD TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to malting seeds for, for example beer brewing purposes or other food usages.

[0002] The invention has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, in relation to testing seed samples of seed batches for, for example, obtaining the ideal malting conditions for malting on a research scale and an industrial scale the seed batches; and more particularly testing grain samples (such as barley) taken from particular batches for obtaining the ideal conditions for malting on a research scale and an operational scale the particular batches with the objective of, for example, obtaining high quality malt.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention has also been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, in relation to screening of a multitude of barley lines that provide a particular malt quality such as a high malt quality.

BACKGROUND ART

[0004] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0005] Malting is a carefully controlled seed germinating process, wherein the process comprises immersing grains in water for a certain period and draining water for a certain period. At the last draining, the seeds (e.g. grains or non-cereal grains) undergo further germination to reach sufficient modification. Subsequently, the partially germinated grain is dried to stop the germination process. Thus, malting is a controlled seed germination process for preparing grain such as barley for beer brewing purposes or other food usages.

[0006] Seed water immersing and draining cycles promote water uptake and living seed respiration. Durations of immersing and draining and numbers of the alternations are determined by the seed properties. In other word, some seeds have a high-water uptake capacity and require short immersing time and less numbers of alternations to reach seed moisture content at 42% to 46% before germination process start. Other seeds may have a low water uptake capacity and require long period immersing and more numbers of alternation. It is important to work out suitable malting protocols for each barley variety for high malt qualities.

[0007] There are an enormous number of conditions that could be tested for obtaining the best malting protocol. For example, duration of immersing in water may be 4 hours to 10 hours. Duration of draining may also be also 4 hours to 10 hours. The alternations (repeating) of immersing and draining may be one to four times.

[0008] Malting promotes hydrolysis of large molecular polymers such as starch, large proteins and b-glucans to small fermentable compounds including glucose, sucrose and amino acids. The hydrolysis of large molecules to small fermentable compounds is catalysed by hydrolytic enzymes coded in barley genomes. Genetic variations can be large in different barley varieties. On the agronomic practices, genetic potentials for yields, protein contents and disease resistances are discovered by growing new barley varieties in different environment conditions. It is known that the performance of barley seeds for malting can be quite different due to several important factors including genetics, harvesting seasons, growing locations and weather conditions. A same barley variety harvested from different locations can have different performance during malting, resulting in different malt qualities.

[0009] The above has as consequence that it will be a beneficial improvement if any new barley variety is tested for suitable malting conditions because the malting conditions (as established by standard malting protocols) used for malting of the existing barley varieties may not useful or at least not as effective for malting of the new barley variety.

[0010] Thus, the continuous development of new barley varieties brings with it a relatively large problem because it requires continuously testing samples of batches of the new barley varieties to determine the most suitable malting conditions for producing the highest malt qualities during malting on a research scale or on an industrial scale of the new barley varieties. The most suitable malting conditions are then codified in what is called malting protocols, which typically do not necessarily become an industry standard but kept in-house. [0011] However, the malting process used during the testing process is very time consuming. Each malting cycle takes about a week excluding the time required for malt quality analysis. Thus, malting using conventional techniques is relatively expensive; this is because currently it is only possible in one malting cycle to test the barley using only a single set of malting conditions for all barley samples in currently available micromalting machines, which are designed to malt multiple samples all subject to the same malting protocol. And, to properly test the barley, a relatively large number of sets of malting conditions need to be tested; this results in that testing malting conditions that differ with respect to each other for the new barley variety takes weeks or more. This is particularly true because conventional malting apparatus can only apply one set of malting conditions to barley samples of a malting batch. Moreover, after the testing of the malting conditions a relatively long time is required for conducting the malt quality analysis. Therefore, currently the testing of new barley varieties for establishing the optimum malting protocols is very expensive.

[0012] Moreover, barley breeders are continuously improving the barley varieties to improve factors such as yield, grain protein and disease resistance; this results in that new barley varieties for barley farmers are constantly released. The quick turn-over in barley varieties in Australia produces problems for domestic and international maltsters and brewers, because, as mentioned above, it takes a long time for maltsters to find the best malting protocols for malting of a new barley variety. It has happened that, once finally, the maltsters and brewers have developed the suitable malting protocols for a particular barley variety; this particular barley variety may only have a short lifespan in the market due to the rapid turnover of varieties. This results in that the maltsters and brewers have to accept a new barley variety and start the testing process all over again for establishing malting protocols for this new barley variety and hoping that this new barley variety will still be available once the new malting protocols have been established.

[0013] While malt qualities are important for malting barley, brewing properties are also critical. Malting barley varieties need to meet both malt and brewing quality requirements before they are accredited as malting barley varieties. In Australia, malt barley accreditation requires to go through stage 0, stage 1 and stage 2. Malt quality data are obtained from a micromalter at stage 0, Pilot Malting Australia at stage 1 and commercial malt house at stage 2, while brewing quality data are required at stage 1 and stage 2 both from Pilot Brewing Australia. Malts used for pilot brewing currently come either from Pilot Malting Australia or from commercial malting houses. Since most of barley malts are used for beer production, an early understanding of brewing properties for new barley varieties is very helpful.

[0014] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0015] According to a broad aspect of the invention there is provided a system for subjecting one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds to a plurality of malting processes defined by a plurality of malting protocols, the system being adapted to conduct during a single malting cycle, a particular malting process on each seed sample, wherein each particular malting process conducted on a particular seed sample is controlled by a malting protocol that differs from the malting protocols applied to the other seed samples.

[0016] In arrangement, the system is used for testing the performance of one or more malting protocols for one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds.

[0017] In another arrangement, the system is used for testing the suitability of one or more malting protocols for one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds.

[0018] In accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, the process for subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes defined by the plurality of malting protocols for testing the performance or suitability of the plurality malting protocols for one or more seed samples is done at the same time for all seed samples. This is particularly advantageous because by subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes at the same time during a single malting cycle is much faster than subjecting the seed samples to one malting protocol one at a time as happens in conventional malting equipment wherein it is only possible to subject seed samples to a single malting protocol at one time.

[0019] In an alternative arrangement, the system is used for screening one or more barley lines that provide a particular malt quality. [0020] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a system for subjecting one or more seed samples to malting processes defined by a plurality of malting protocols, the system comprising an area adapted (1 ) for controlling within an inner space of the area a particular temperature and (2) for containment in separate containers of at least two seed samples selected from a single or from a plurality batches of the seeds, the system further comprising fluid delivery means for delivering fluid at a particular delivery moment of time, at a particular delivery flowrate and during a particular delivery period of time to the containers, and fluid collection means for collecting the fluid exiting the containers being adapted to allow fluid flow between the interior and exterior of the containers, and a control system for controlling the fluid delivery and collection means and controlling the temperature within the inner space

[0021] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the collection means for collecting based on the malting protocols during an extraction period of time, the fluid from the containers after a particular wet-stage period of time starting from the completion of the delivery period of time.

[0022] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the delivery means for delivering again fluid, based on each malting protocol, into the containers after an air- rest period of time commencing from the completion of the extraction period of time.

[0023] Preferably, the system is adapted to malt seeds via a plurality of malting protocols during single malting cycle.

[0024] In arrangement, the system is used for testing the performance of one or more sets of malting protocols for one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds

[0025] In an alternative arrangement, the system is used for screening and selecting barley lines that provide a particular malt quality

[0026] In another arrangement, the system is used for testing the suitability of one or more malting protocols for one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds.

[0027] In accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, the process for subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes defined by the plurality of malting protocols for testing the performance or suitability of the plurality malting protocols for one or more seed samples is done at the same time for all seed samples.

[0028] This is particularly advantageous because by subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes at the same time during a single malting cycle is much faster than subjecting the seed samples to a malting protocol one at a time as it happens in conventional malting equipment wherein it is only possible to subject one seed sample to a single malting protocol at one time.

[0029] Preferably, the fluid comprises water.

[0030] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the humidity within the inner space.

[0031] Preferably, the system further comprises humidity control means controlled by the control system.

[0032] Alternatively, the humidity within the inner space may be controlled by virtue of open water surfaces of the fluid delivery means and/or fluid collection means.

[0033] Preferably, the inner space comprises the interior of a thermal box.

[0034] Alternatively, the inner space comprises the interior of a room adapted to control temperature and humidity within the room.

[0035] Preferably, there are two or more containers arranged on the top of each other and in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other.

[0036] Preferably, each container comprises a particular seed sample that differs with respect to the seed samples contained in the other containers.

[0037] In an alternative arrangement, each container comprises a particular seed sample being the same than the seed samples contained in the other containers.

[0038] Preferably, the fluid delivery means are configured for delivering the fluid to a plurality of containers, the fluid being delivered to each container at a particular delivery moment of time and at a particular flowrate of fluid during a particular delivery period of time, wherein the particular delivery moment of time, the particular delivery flowrate of fluid and the particular delivery period of time for each container differ with respect to the other containers.

[0039] Preferably, the fluid collection means are configured for extracting the fluid from a plurality of containers, the fluid being extracted from each container at a particular extraction moment of time starting after completion of the wet stage period of time, a particular extraction flowrate of fluid during a particular extraction period of time, wherein the particular extraction moment of time, the particular extraction flowrate of fluid and the particular extraction period of time for each container differs with respect to the other containers.

[0040] In a particular arrangement, the particular extraction moment of time, the particular extraction flowrate of fluid and the extraction particular period of time for each container may be substantially the same when compared against the other containers.

[0041] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the fluid delivery means in order that the fluid delivered to a first container is done at a first delivery moment of time, a first delivery flowrate of fluid during a first delivery period of time, and the fluid delivered to second containers is done at second delivery moments of time, second delivery flowrates of fluid during second delivery periods of time, wherein the delivery first delivery moment of time, the delivery first flowrate of fluid and the delivery first period of time differ from the second delivery moments of time, the second delivery flowrates of fluid and the second delivery periods of time.

[0042] Preferably, the second moments of time, the second flowrates of fluid during the second periods of time differ with respect each other.

[0043] In an arrangement, the first and second flowrates of fluid and the first and second periods of time are the same.

[0044] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the fluid collection means in order that the fluid extracted from a first container is done at a first extraction moment of time starting after completion of a first wet stage period of time and a first fluid extraction flowrate of fluid during a first fluid extraction period of time, and the fluid extracted from second containers is done at second extraction moments of time starting after completion of second wet stage periods of time and second fluid extraction flowrates of fluid during second extraction periods of time, wherein the first fluid extraction moment of time and the first fluid extraction flowrate of fluid and the first fluid extraction period of time differ from the second fluid extraction moments of time and the second fluid extraction flowrates of fluid and the second fluid extraction periods of time.

[0045] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control the collection means for collecting the fluid, based on each malting protocol, from each container after the first and second wet stage periods of time starting from the completion of the first and second delivery periods of time.

[0046] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control (1 ) the delivery means for delivering again fluid, based on each malting protocol, into the first container after a first air-rest period of time commencing from the completion of the first fluid extraction period of time, and (2) the delivery means for delivering again fluid into the second containers after second air-rest periods of time commencing from the completion of the second fluid extraction periods of time.

[0047] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control over a particular third period of time the fluid delivery means and the fluid collection means in order that the fluid delivered to and extracted from the first container and the second containers is done at one or more instances, the instances being spaced apart fourth periods of time.

[0048] Preferably, the first and second wet stage periods of time of each instance are the same or differ with respect to the first and second wet stage periods of time of each of the other instances.

[0049] Preferably, the second extraction moments of time, the second extraction flowrates of fluid and the second extraction periods of time differ with respect each other.

[0050] In an arrangement, the first and second extraction flowrates of fluid and the first and second extraction periods of time are the same.

[0051] Preferably, the control system is adapted to control, over any of the particular periods of time, the fluid delivery means to deliver a particular quantity of fluid to each container such that the seeds contained in the containers are covered with fluid. [0052] Preferably, the fourth periods of time between concatenated instances have different values during the third period of time.

[0053] Alternatively, the fourth periods of time between concatenated instances have the same values during the third period of time.

[0054] Preferably, the containers are configured for controlling the temperature within the container in order that the seed sample contained in each container is subjected to a particular temperature.

[0055] Preferably, the temperature within the first container differs from the second container.

[0056] Alternatively, the temperature within the first container and the second container are the same.

[0057] In a particular arrangement, the fluid is delivered to the containers via gravity and discharged from the containers via gravity.

[0058] Preferably, the fluid delivery means comprise a tray for delivering the fluid to the containers.

[0059] Preferably, the fluid collection means comprise a tray for receiving the fluid exiting the containers.

[0060] Preferably, the trays are removably mounted on shelves within the inner space permitting removal of the trays during heating of the inner space.

[0061] Preferably, the inner space is heated.

[0062] Preferably, the inner space is heated for kilning.

[0063] Preferably, the inner space comprises a plurality of shelves for receiving the containers, the fluid delivery means and the fluid collection means.

[0064] Alternatively, fluid is delivered to the containers and discharged from the containers via pump means. [0065] In this alternative arrangement, the control system is adapted to control the pumps means for delivering and discharging the fluid.

[0066] Preferably, the fluid delivery means comprises a fluid reservoir and delivery valve means fluidly connected to the fluid reservoir.

[0067] Preferably, the fluid reservoir is connected to a fluid source external to the area.

[0068] Preferably, the fluid collection means comprises a fluid reservoir and collection valve means adapted to deliver the fluid to the fluid reservoir.

[0069] Alternatively, the collection means is fluidly connected to piping for discharging the fluid out of the area.

[0070] Preferably, the delivery valve means are operatively connected to the control systems for activation and deactivation of the delivery valve means and controlling the flow rate and duration of flow of the fluid.

[0071] Preferably, the delivery valve means comprise at least one delivery valve for controlling the rate of fluid flow and the duration that the fluid will be delivered to the containers.

[0072] Preferably, the rate of fluid flow and the duration that the fluid will be delivered to each container is such that the amount of fluid delivered to each container covers the seeds samples in their entirety.

[0073] Preferably, the collection valve means are operatively connected to the control systems for activation and deactivation of the collection valve means and controlling the flow rate and duration of flow of the fluid.

[0074] Preferably, the collection valve means comprise at least one collection valve for controlling the rate and duration of fluid flow exiting each container for extracting substantially all of the fluid from the container.

[0075] In a particular arrangement, the system comprises at least one shelf and a plurality of buckets mounted on the shelf. [0076] Preferably, each bucket is adapted to receive fluid from a delivery valve.

[0077] Preferably, each bucket is adapted to be fluidly connected to the collection valve for extraction of the fluid from the bucket.

[0078] Preferably, the fluid delivery means comprise a delivery valve manifold comprising a plurality of delivery valves, each delivery valve being adapted to be independently operated by the control system for delivering a specific amount of fluid to one bucket.

[0079] Preferably, the fluid collection means comprise a collection valve manifold comprising a plurality of collection valves, each collection valve being adapted to be independently operated by the control system for extracting the fluid from one bucket.

[0080] Preferably, the fluid collection means are operatively connected to the control systems for activation and deactivation of the collection valve means and controlling the flow rate and duration of flow of the fluid.

[0081] Preferably, each bucket is adapted to control the temperature of the interior of the bucket.

[0082] Preferably, the area is adapted to control the temperature of the interior of the bucket via temperature control means.

[0083] Preferably, the temperature control means is operatively connected to the control system for the control system to set the temperature within the inner space of the area.

[0084] Preferably, the area comprises a thermal box having an inner space for containment of the buckets for receiving of the seed samples.

[0085] Preferably, the thermal box is adapted to provide access to the inner space and to seal the inner space from the exterior of the inner space.

[0086] Alternatively, the area comprises a laboratory setting.

[0087] Preferably, the inner space comprises a plurality of shelves for receiving the buckets. [0088] In an alternative arrangement, the collection means comprises a tray for receiving the fluid discharged from the buckets.

[0089] In an alternative arrangement, the fluid is delivered to the delivery valve manifold from an external fluid source.

[0090] In an alternative arrangement, the fluid is discharged from the collection means via piping.

[0091] Preferably, the thermal box comprises an incubator comprising the inner space being adapted for cooling and heating of the inner space.

[0092] Preferably, the incubator and the control system are operatively connected to each other to operate the incubator for controlling the temperature and humidity in the inner space and the fluid delivery and fluid collection means.

[0093] Preferably, the control system is adapted to be operatively connected wirely or wirelessly to computer means for operation of the incubator and the fluid delivery means and/or provision of data representative of the malting protocols for testing of the seed samples.

[0094] According to a second aspect of the invention there is a method for testing the performance of a plurality of malting protocols for a plurality of seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds, the method comprises the step of filling a plurality of buckets with the seed samples and using the system in accordance with the first aspect of the invention for subjecting each seed sample to a particular malting protocol.

[0095] Preferably, the plurality seed samples comprise the same type of seeds.

[0096] Alternatively, the plurality seed samples comprise different types of seeds.

[0097] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method for screening one or more barley lines that provide a particular malt quality, the method comprises the step of filling a plurality of buckets with seed samples of each barley lines and using the system in accordance with the first aspect of the invention for subjecting each seed sample to a particular malting protocol. [0098] Preferably, the plurality seed samples comprise seeds from the same barley line.

[0099] Alternatively, the plurality seed samples comprise seeds from different barley lines.

[00100] Preferably, the method is adapted to malt seeds via a plurality of protocols in a single malting cycle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00101 ] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system for determining the particular conditions for malting of seeds in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a particular arrangement of a system for determining the particular conditions for malting seeds in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another arrangement of a system for determining the particular conditions for malting seeds in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 is a container comprising a plurality of buckets for containing samples of one or more batches of seeds to undertake testing in the systems shown in figures 2 and 3;

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of one of the buckets shown in figure 4;

Figure 6 is a front view of a particular arrangement of a system for determining the ideal conditions for malting seeds in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 is a block diagram of a system for determining particular conditions for malting seeds in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention using the system shown in figure 6;

Figure 8 is a particular arrangement of a bucket shown in figure 5 comprising a thermal sleeve for controlling the temperature within the bucket;

Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating particular sets of malting conditions for a malting cycle to test a particular barley sample. This example shows three cycles of wet and draining. Flowever, it can be one cycle or more than three cycles; and

Figures 10a to 11 c illustrate a particular example of a process for evaluating three different malting protocols for three seed samples.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

[00102] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system 10 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention for determining the ideal conditions for malting on a research scale or on an operational scale of seeds of one or more particular batches of seeds. In particular there is provided a system for testing, during a single malting cycle, the performance of one or more sets of malting conditions for one or more malting seed samples collected from one or more batches of the seeds.

[00103] Alternatively, the system 10 may be used for screening one or more barley lines that provide a particular malt quality such as a high malt quality. As will be described at a later stage, it is particularly useful to screen barley lines using, during a single malting cycle, a plurality of sets of malting conditions that differ with respect to each other. This is because each barley line has its unique genetic properties resulting in that if a barley line is subjected to only one malting protocol the desired malt quality may not be revealed. By using several malting protocols during a single malting cycle, the potential of finding barley lines that provide the desired malt quality increases. The system shortens the time for finding a high quality barley line.

[00104] In accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, the process for subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes defined by the plurality of malting protocols for testing the performance or suitability of the plurality malting protocols for one or more seed samples is done at the same time for all seed samples.

[00105] This is particularly advantageous because by subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes at the same time during a single malting cycle is much faster than subjecting the seed samples to a malting protocol one at a time as it happens in conventional malting equipment wherein it is only possible to subject seed samples to a single malting protocol at one time.

[00106] Determination of the ideal malting conditions for a particular batch of seeds comprises the step of subjecting one or more sample of seeds to particular sets of malting conditions (referred to as malting protocols) and examining the malt resulting from the malting process with the objective of confirming which particular malting protocol is more suitable for optimum malting of the seeds of the particular batch; in particular, one objective is to obtain the malting protocol that provides the malt of the highest quality. In a particular arrangement, another objective is to obtain the quickest and most cost-effective malting protocol that provides a malt quality that is acceptable for subsequent use.

[00107] The malting process occurs during a malting cycle: starting from delivery (for the first time) of fluid to the sample(s) of seeds and ending at the kilning process.

[00108] The system 10 comprises an area 12 adapted for (1 ) controlling, within its inner space 14, the temperature and humidity, and (2) for containment of one or more seed samples selected from a single or from a plurality batch of the seeds. The seeds may be barley used for brewing beer; however, other type of seeds (such as grains or non-cereal grains) may be used.

[00109] As shown in figure 1 , the area 12 comprises a single container 18 with one or more buckets 13a to 13d for containment of seed samples; in this particular arrangement, for illustration purposes, a single container 18 has been shown. However, in alternative arrangements of the first embodiment of the invention such as shown in figures 2 and 3, the system 10 may comprise a plurality of containers 18 located for example on the top of each other, each one of the containers 18 having one or more buckets 13. [00110] In another alternative arrangement as shown in figure 2, there is provided for each container 18 a delivery valve 22 for delivering fluid to the container and a collection valve 23 for removing the fluid from each container 18; in this manner, the fluid that has been used for steeping seeds in a particular bucket 13 in a particular container 18a will not be re-used for steeping seeds in other buckets 13 contained in another container 18b. The steep water that has been used for steeping the seeds is not used again for steeping of seeds; but instead, any water used in the steeping process is discarded by means described below.

[00111] In a particular arrangement of a second embodiment of the invention, buckets 13 may be arranged in a spaced apart relationship on the top of each other permitting that each bucket 13 is fed fluid from a separate delivery valve 22 when compared to the valves 22 that fed the other neighboring buckets 13 and fluid is removed from each bucket 13 via a collection valve 23 fluidly connected to each bucket 13. The fact that each bucket 13 is being (1 ) fed fluid from a separate delivery valve 22 and (2) fluid is being extracted from each bucket 13 via a separate collection valve 23, results in that the seed samples in each bucket 13 are being provided with fluid in accordance with a particular malting protocol, with each particular malting protocol differing from the malting protocols applied to the other neighboring buckets 13. This arrangement is particularly useful because it permits conducting during a single malting cycle a plurality of malting processes, each malting process being controlled by a particular malting protocol that differs from the malting protocol used during remaining malting process.

[00112] The above allows to: in one malting cycle to operate at the same time (i.e. in a single malting cycle) a plurality of malting protocols (that differ with respect to each other) for example, for one batch of seeds or a plurality of batches of seeds. This reduces significantly the time for testing a new batch of seeds; in fact, typically, each malting cycle takes about a week excluding the time required for conducting the malt quality analysis. Thus, the system 10 in accordance with the present embodiments of the invention can be used for discovery of optimum processing protocols to deliver malt quality genetic potentials for many newly developed barley lines in a short time at a very low cost. It can also be used for producing malts of many different varieties for brewing test. [00113] Referring now to figures 2 and 3, the system 10 also comprises fluid delivery means 16 for delivery of fluid to the area 12 with the objective of steeping of the seed samples in buckets 13 within the container 18, and a fluid collection means 20 for receiving the fluid in which the seed samples contained in buckets 13 were immersed for steeping purposes. The collection means 20 comprises a collection valve 23 to allow the fluid to exist the containers 18.

[00114] The system in figure 2, shows the fluid delivery means 16 comprises a delivery valve 22 for controlling the rate of fluid flow and the duration of fluid flow in order to deliver a particular quantity of fluid to the container 18 for steeping of the seed samples in buckets 13. In figure 3 a submersible pump 32 is shown for extracting the fluid that is being delivered by the delivery valve 22. The particular quantity of fluid delivered by the delivery valve 22 may be of such an amount of fluid that the seeds are covered with fluid.

[00115] Controlling the fluid flow via valves 22 and 23, or pump 32 allows for the seeds of the buckets 13 to be subject, periodically, to a wet stage followed by an air-rest stage.

[00116] In particular, the valves 22 may be activated to fill the buckets 13 with fluid for immersion of the seeds in fluid (the wet stage) during a particular period of time (the wet stage period of time). Subsequently, after the wet stage period of time, the fluid is removed from the container 18 by activating valve 23 (see figure 2) or pump 32 (see figure 3) for the air-rest stage and germination to start. The air-rest occurs during a particular period of time (the air-rest period of time) that once completed the valve 22 may be activated again in order to re-fill the container 18 for another wet-stage to commence during a wet stage period of time and that once completed, another air-rest stage may start. The valves 22 and 23, or pump 32 may be periodically activated and deactivated in order that the seeds in buckets 13 undergo cyclical wet and air-rest stages, which are part of the malting process in order to encourage germination of the seeds in buckets 13.

[00117] Each wet stage period of time commences upon completion of the fluid delivery period of time for filling with fluid each corresponding container. [00118] Each air-rest period of time commences upon completion of the fluid extraction period of time for extracting the fluid from each corresponding container.

[00119] Furthermore, by varying the duration of, for example, the wet and the air-rest periods of time, several malting protocols can be established and used for malting the samples of seeds contained in the buckets 13. Similarly, the quantity of wet stages and the air-rest stages subjected to the seeds may be varied as well as any other malting conditions (such as the ones to be listed below) to which the seeds will be subjected to during a single malting cycle.

[00120] Referring now to figures 4 and 5, figures 4 and 5 depict buckets 13 within a container 18 to be used in connection with the first embodiment of the invention. Figures 4 and 5 respectively, a container 18 comprising a plurality of buckets 13, and a cross- section of a bucket 13 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bucket 13. The bucket 13 comprises a bottom 15 and an upper rim 17, and a cylindrical wall 19 between the bottom 15 and the upper rim 17. The wall 19 comprises a plurality of openings 21 to allow the fluid to enter and/or exit the bucket 13. This permits movement of the fluid between the inside of the bucket 13 and its outside. The openings 21 are adapted to let the fluid to exit the buckets 13 but to impede the seeds to exit the buckets 13 through the openings 21 .

[00121 ] Furthermore, the malting cycle mentioned earlier occurs at particular temperatures depending on the particular stage of the malting process that is being conducted. The temperature during the wet and air-resting cycles may be about between 10 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius.

[00122] Flowever, the temperature during the wet stages and air-rest stages may vary, with the system being adapted to control the temperature during these stages. For example, in a particular arrangement, during the first instance of wet and air-rest stages, the temperature may be 19°C increasing to 22°C for the remaining wet and air-rest stages.

[00123] In a particular arrangement, during the germination process the temperature may be typically between 12 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius; and, during the kilning process the temperature may be between 40 degrees Celsius and 80 degrees Celsius (°C) or higher. [00124] However, the temperature during the germination and kilning processes may vary with the system being adapted to control the temperature during these processes. For example, in a particular arrangement, germination may start at 18 °C for the first 48 hours and then decrease to 16 °C for the remaining 48 hours (the total duration of the germination process being in this particular arrangement 96 hours).

[00125] Further, in a particular arrangement kilning may have 5 different temperatures, 45 °C for 3 hours, 50 °C for 2 hours, 55 °C for 3 hours, 60 °C for 4 hours and 80 °C for 6 hours.

[00126] Upon completion of the wet and air-rest cycles resulting in germination of the seeds of the sample 13, the kilning process commences by increasing the temperature within the area 12 and subjecting the germinated seeds contained in the buckets 13 for a particular period of time to the increased temperature, for example, between 40 degrees Celsius and 80 degrees Celsius or higher. In the particular arrangement of figures 1 to 3, fluid delivery means 16 and fluid collection means 20 may comprise trays that can be removed from the area 12 during the kilning process.

[00127] Further, the temperature at which the seeds are subject during each stage may be varied depending on the particular malting protocol that is controlling the malting process. By varying the temperature, different malting protocols can be established and used for malting the samples of seeds contained in the buckets 13.

[00128] Furthermore, the humidity within the inner space 14 may be controlled by, for example, either (1 ) the open water surfaces provided by trays of the fluid collection and delivery means, or (2) humidity control means 33 of the system 10 controlled by the control system 24. The humidity may be controlled during the air-rest stages and the germination process.

[00129] As mentioned before, the system 10 in accordance with the present embodiments of the invention allows for, in a malting cycle, to use a plurality of malting protocols for different samples of seeds.

[00130] In particular, in accordance with the present embodiments of the invention, several sets of malting conditions that differ with respect to each other may be used during a single malting cycle of one or more samples of seeds. As mentioned before, by malting cycle is meant the malting process starting from delivery for the first time of fluid to the buckets 13 and ending at the kilning process.

[00131 ] In accordance with particular arrangements of the present embodiments of the invention, each set of malting conditions are expressed in a malting protocol which includes the numerical values of the malting conditions listed below to which the seeds in buckets 13 will be subject to during the malting cycle.

[00132] These malting conditions are: a. duration of the period of time of the wet stage b. duration of the period of time of the air-rest stage; c. the number of instances of wet and air-rest stages prior the germination stage and the time between wet and air-rest stages; d. the temperatures at which the seeds inside buckets 13 will be subjected to during the wet and air-rest stages; e. the humidity within the inner space 14; f. duration of germination and at which temperatures and humidity will germination occur; and g. the temperature of each kilning stage of a plurality of kilning stages. h. The duration of each kilning stage and at which temperatures will kilning occur.

[00133] By varying the above listed conditions, it is possible to establish different malting protocols that when applied to the seeds inside buckets 13 (that is, different malting conditions applied to different buckets 13 whilst being malted at the same time) will result in different outcomes of the malting cycle. This permits to confirm whether a particular set of malting conditions applied to a particular bucket 13 (a particular malting protocol) is appropriate for a particular batch of seeds.

[00134] In particular, by subjecting the seeds in buckets 13 (of, for example, a particular batch of seeds) to different set of malting conditions and examining the resulting malted seeds using malt quality analysis, it is possible to determine and select which particular set of malting conditions (i.e. which malting protocol) of the different set of malting conditions (i.e. of the different malting protocols) has provided the best results; for example: which malting protocol for example optimises the malting conditions for lower water use or lower power use which give adequate malt quality; or the malting protocol for optimum malt quality. This particular malting protocol could then, for example, be provided to the purchasers of the batch of seeds that is under investigation for malting of the entire batch from which each seed sample was taken from.

[00135] As each seed sample may be subject to different malting conditions during the wet and air-rest stages, each seed sample may be subject to different conditions during germination and kilning processes. Thus, each sample is subjected, due to being subject to different conditions when compared to the other seed samples, to different wet and air-rest stages, to different germination and kilning processes.

[00136] For this, for different duration of the wet and air-rest stages, the control system 24 controls, for example, the amount of water entering each bucket and the draining time for each bucket.

[00137] Each seed sample may subject to kiln at different times depending on the duration of the germination process. In particular, after 80 hours of germination each sample may be subjected to kilning. Alternatively, you may subject to kiln, other seed samples after 90 hours of undergoing the germination process. In this manner, it is possible to control the duration in germination.

[00138] Each seed sample may be subjected to different kiln processes by locating them in separate ovens setting the ovens at different temperatures and operation time. For this, it is necessary to have available as many ovens as seeds sample there are. Thus, this particular process is relatively cumbersome and expensive.

[00139] In an arrangement accordance with the present embodiments of the invention an incubator may be used to conduct the kilning process. In one particular arrangement all germinated seed samples were located in the same incubator for kilning with the sample temperature profile.

[00140] Moreover, the system 10 further comprises a control system 24 for controlling the malting cycle.

[00141] In particular, the control system 24 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) which is operatively connected to the fluid delivery means 16 as well as to temperature control means 17 adapted to control the temperature of the inner space 14 of the area 12.

[00142] Further, the control system 24 comprises a timer 11 permitting the CPU to activate or deactivate the valve(s) 22 and 23 or pump 32 to either deliver fluid to the area 12 by valves 22 or to remove fluid by valves 23, or pump 32 for the air-rest stage and germination to commence.

[00143] The CPU is adapted to read instructions of software stored in memory means such as a hard drive of the control system 24. The software stored in the memory means comprises data representative of malting protocols that will be used during the malting cycles.

[00144] In accordance with the first embodiment of the invention depicted in figures 2 and 3, (1 ) by reading the data of a first malting protocol and referring to the timer 11 , the CPU can instruct the fluid delivery means 16, the temperature control 17 and humidity control 33 to conduct the malting cycle, based on this first malting protocol, for particular seed samples contained in a first container 18a having a plurality of perforated buckets 13 and (2) by reading the instructions of a second malting protocol and referring to the timer 11 , the CPU can instruct the fluid delivery means 16 and the temperature control 17 to conduct the malting cycles, based on this second malting protocol, for particular seed samples contained in the container 18b having a plurality of perforated buckets 13. In this manner, the seed samples contained in the buckets 13 of the containers 18a are subject to a set of malting conditions (pre-established by a first malting protocol) that differ with respect to the malting conditions (pre-established by a second malting protocol) to which the seed samples contained in the other container 18b. As mentioned before, the system 10 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention, may comprise more than two containers 18 permitting using more than two malting protocols during one malting cycle.

[00145] Similarly, in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention (see figure 6), the CPU can instruct the fluid delivery means 16, the temperature control 17 and humidity control 33 to conduct a malting cycle for the seed samples contained in the non-perforated buckets 13, wherein each malting protocol applied to the seeds sample of one of the buckets 13 (the first buckets) differs with respect to the malting protocols applied to the seed samples of the other buckets 13 (the second buckets). [00146] As will be described with respect to the second embodiment of the invention, for each bucket 13 (separately from any remaining bucket 13) there is a delivery valve 22 and a collection valve 23 for delivery and extraction of the fluid; in this manner, in each bucket 13 the seed samples are subject to a set of malting conditions that differs with respect to the other buckets 13. The buckets 13 to be used in connection with the second embodiment of the invention do not comprise perforated side walls in view that each bucket has assigned valves 22 and 23 which, respectively, deliver the fluid into the bucket 13 and remove the fluid from the bucket 13. Figure 6 shows a particular arrangement of the second embodiment of the invention.

[00147] The CPU is adapted to keep track of which seed samples contained in buckets 13 have been applied which malting protocols; this information may be stored in memory means (such as random access memory (RAM)) for future retrieval when, after having investigated which bucket 13 has the highest quality malt. In particular, the malting protocol that provided the optimum malting conditions for particular seed samples of a particular batch of seeds is the malting protocol that will be retrieved from memory means for submission to the producer or buyer of the particular batch of seeds.

[00148] Referring now to figures 2 and 3, figures 2 and 3 show two particular arrangements of systems 10 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention.

[00149] As shown in figures 2 and 3, these particular arrangements comprise an area

12 having an inner space 14 for containment of the containers 18 including the buckets

13 for receiving of the seed samples. In a particular arrangement, the area 12 may be a thermal box 28 (as shown in figures 6 and 7 depicting the second embodiment of the invention). The thermal box 28 may comprise, incorporated therein, the control system 24 being operatively connected to the fluid delivery means 16, the fluid collection means 20 and the temperature and humidity control means 17 and 33 for subjecting the seed samples to particular malting conditions during the malting cycle.

[00150] As mentioned earlier, for illustration purposes, the system 10 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention has been shown as comprising a single container 18 with a plurality of buckets 13; however, in alternative arrangements of the first embodiment of the invention, the system 10 may comprise one or more containers 18 with buckets 13 contained therein. As mentioned before, the inclusion of a plurality of containers 18 permits subjecting a plurality of seed samples of one or more batches to different malting conditions.

[00151 ] The two arrangements of system 10 shown in figures 2 and 3 differ with respect to each other in the manner that the fluid is delivered to the container(s) 18.

[00152] In figure 2, the fluid is driven by gravity from the fluid source located at an upper location with respect to the container(s) 18 via controllable valves and being collected by gravity via controllable valves to the fluid collection area located at a lower location with respect to the container(s) 18.

[00153] In figure 3, the fluid is driven by pump means 30 from the fluid source to the container(s) 18 and extracted from the container(s) 18 via pump(s) 32.

[00154] As mentioned before, in a particular arrangement of the present embodiments of the invention, there are provided a plurality of containers 18 for subjecting each seed samples located in one container 18 to a particular set of malting conditions that differ from the sets of malting conditions of the other containers 18. In this particular arrangement, there will be a pair of valves 22 and 23 assigned to each container 18 permitting subjecting the seed samples of each container 18 to a malting protocol that differs from the other containers 18.

[00155] In a further arrangement, the buckets 13 may comprise thermal sleeves 34 (see figure 8) for controlling the temperature within each bucket 13.

[00156] Referring now to figure 6, figure 6 shows a particular arrangement of a system 10 in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention. The system 10 shown in figure 6 comprises a thermal box 28 defining an inner space 14 for containment of (1 ) the fluid delivery means 16 (having a fluid reservoir 44 and a valve manifold 42 - also referred to as delivery valve means) , (2) buckets 13 and the fluid collection means 20 comprising a collection valve manifold 25 and a fluid reservoir 45, As shown in figure 6, each bucket 13 comprises a valve 23 for removal of the fluid within each bucket 13 and delivery to the fluid reservoir 45.

[00157] There are a plurality of buckets 13 (also referred to as containers) including a first bucket and second buckets 13. [00158] The first bucket 13 may be subject to a plurality of wet stages, with each wet stage, optionally, followed by an air-rest stage. One wet stage or the pair of wet and air- rest stages define one instance with one or more instances being undertaking during a single malting cycle. The wet stages (referred to in figure 10c as Wet x, x being any number greater than one) and air-rest stages (referred to in figure 10c as Air x, x being any number greater than one) which are subjected to the first bucket 13 are referred to as first wet stages and first air-rest stages.

[00159] The second buckets 13 comprise one or more buckets 13 excluding the first bucket 13, wherein each bucket 13 may be subjected to a plurality of wet stages, with each wet stage optionally, followed by an air-rest stage. The number of second buckets 13 may be any number equal or greater to one. One wet stage or the pair of wet and air-rest stages define one instance with one or more instances being undertaking during a single malting cycle. The wet stages (referred to in figure 10c as Wet x, x being any number greater than one) and air-rest stages (referred to in figure 10c as Air x, x being any number greater than one) which are subjected to the second buckets 13 are referred to as second wet stages and second air-rest stages.

[00160] Figures 10 illustrates a particular example of three buckets being subjected to a plurality of wet and air-rest stages dictated by malting protocols that differ with respect to each other. The duration of the process of subjecting the three buckets 13 to the wet and air-rest stages is defined by a third period of time that differ for all three buckets; however, in other examples, the third period of time may be the same for all three buckets 13.

[00161] In particular, the first bucket 13 is subjected to malting conditions dictated by the malting protocol P-78642, and one bucket 13 of the second buckets 13 are subjected to malting conditions dictated by the malting protocol P-8842 and the other second bucket 13 is subject to malting conditions dictated by the malting protocol P- 988.

[00162] Based on the malting protocols, for the first bucket 13, the third period of time commenced on 21 July 2021 at 4:00 AM and finished on 22 July 2021 at 7:00 AM with a third first wet stage. [00163] Based on the malting protocol P88742, for one bucket 13 of the second buckets 13, the third period of time commenced on 21 July 2021 at 2:00 AM and finished on 22 July 2021 at 7:00 AM with a third second wet stage.

[00164] Based on the malting protocol P988, for one bucket 13 of the second buckets 13, the third period of time commenced on 21 July 2021 at 6:00 AM and finished on 22 July 2021 at 7:00 AM with a second wet stage.

[00165] At 7:00 AM of 22 July 2021 . the seed samples within all three buckets were let to germinate for subsequent kilning.

[00166] The malting process in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention occurs during a malting cycle: starting from delivery (for the first time) of fluid to the sample(s) of seeds and ending at the kilning process.

[00167] As shown in figure 6, the thermal box 28 comprises a plurality of shelves 38 arranged on the top of each other in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other for receiving the fluid delivery means 16, the buckets 13 and the fluid collection means 20 as is shown in figure 6.

[00168] In the arrangement shown in figure 6, the fluid delivery means 16 and the fluid collection means 20 comprise trays 44 and 45 (for holding the fluid) located within the thermal box 28. The trays 44 and 45 of the fluid delivery means 16 and the fluid collection means 20 may be removed from the thermal box 28 during the kilning process.

[00169] In an alternative arrangement, the fluid reservoir 44 and 45 may be fluidly connected, respectively, to a fluid source such as an exterior constant temperature incubator and piping for discharging of the collected fluid to the exterior of the thermal box 28.

[00170] The thermal box 28 comprises a door 40 to provide access to the inner space 14 and, when in closed condition sealing the interior of the thermal box for maintaining the humidity and being able to control the temperature within the inner space 14.

[00171] Furthermore, as shown in figure 6 the fluid delivery means 16 comprises a plurality of valves 22 defining a valve manifold 42 adapted for delivering, using a single valve 22 for each individual bucket 13. Thus, each bucket 13 (comprising a seed sample of a particular batch) is individually fed by a valve 22 permitting subjecting each bucket 13 to a set of malting conditions that is different with respect to the other buckets 13.

[00172] Removal of the fluid from each bucket 13 is done via the collection valve manifold 25. In a particular arrangement, the fluid collection means 20 are operatively connected to the control system 24 to permit interaction of the control system 24 with the collection means 20.

[00173] In particular, during operation of the system 10, initially, the fluid delivery means 16 provide the fluid to the buckets 13 for commencement of the wet stage during which the seed samples contained in the buckets 13 will be soaked in the fluid for a particular period of time.

[00174] At completion of the wet stage, the fluid is extracted from the buckets 13 through activation of the collection valve manifold 25 for the air-rest stage to commence.

[00175] Upon completion of the air-rest stage, the fluid delivery means 16 may refill the buckets 13 with fluid for subjecting the seed samples contained in the buckets 13 to another wet stage, and upon completion of this additional wet stage, the fluid may be extracted from the buckets 13 for subjecting the seed samples to another air-rest stage to commence. This process of subjecting the seed samples to a wet stage followed by an air-rest stage may be repeated a multitude of times depending on the malting protocols that are being test.

[00176] In alternative arrangement, a particular wet stage may not be followed by an air-rest stage; instead, for example, as shown in figure 10, the steep cycle ends in a wet stage prior commence of the germination process.

[00177] As mentioned before, in one particular arrangement of the present embodiments of the invention, each seed sample in each bucket 13 is subjected to a specific malting protocol that differs from the malting protocols that are being subjected to the other buckets 13; thus, in this particular arrangement, each individual valve 22 (for delivering the fluid to the bucket 13) and each individual valves 23 are independently activated with respect to the other valves 22 and 23 of the valves manifolds 42 and 25.

[00178] The system 10 shown in figure 6 may comprise its control system 24 (shown in figure 7) incorporated within areas of the thermal box 28 shielded from the inner space 14. The control system 24 may be operated via a user interface 46. The control system 24 is alternatively placed outside of the thermal box shielded for operational convenience (not drawn). In an alternative arrangement, the control system may be located outside or at a remote location of the thermal box 28.

[00179] As shown in figure 7, which is a schematic drawing exposing the control system 24 incorporated inside the thermal box 28, the control system 24 comprises computer components such as a processor 48, a random access memory (RAM) 50, a memory drive 52, and the user interfaces 46 such as a display 54 and a keyboard 56. These computer components are interconnected with respect to each other and the fluid delivery means 16 and the temperature control 17 via a system bus 58. The processor 48 may execute instructions of a software code to control the system 10 in order to subject one or more seeds samples to a specific malting protocol as described earlier. The software code as well as the data representative of the malting protocols executed by the processor 48 may be stored in the memory drive 52 or may be provided from external sources through the computer means 60 (e.g. laptops) directly connected to the system 10 or remotely through the internet using computer means 62 (e.g. tablets or mobile phones). The computer means 60 and 62 are adapted to control the control system for operation the system 10, if desired.

[00180] The control system 24 may include a database in the memory drive containing data representative of a library of malting protocols used in connection with past seeds malting analysis as well as new malting protocols for seeds samples of new batches of seeds.

[00181] In operation, the system 10 as shown in figure 6, is adapted to test seeds samples of a particular batch of seeds. For example, a newly developed barley variety may have been developed for which it is necessary to know the malting protocol that will provide the optimum quality malt when this newly developed barley variety is malted on a research scale or an industrial scale. The system 10 is particularly advantageous because as mentioned before subjecting the plurality of seed samples to the plurality of malting processes at the same time during a single malting cycle is much faster than subjecting the seed samples to a malting protocol one at a time as it happens in conventional malting equipment wherein it is only possible to subject seed samples to a single malting protocol at one time.

[00182] In an arrangement, initially, each bucket 13 is filled with barley samples obtained from a batch of a particular barley variety and introduced in the thermal box 28, mounted on shelves 38b and 38c and fluidly connected to the delivery and collection valves 22 and 23. This will permit test many different barley samples from different barley varieties or obtained from different locations.

[00183] Subsequently, the thermal box 28 is closed using door 40 and the control system 24 (see figure 7) is turned on for the malting cycle to commence. Figure 9 shows a flowchart illustrating particular sets of malting conditions of a malting cycle for malting seed sample of a particular variety of barley.

[00184] As mentioned before, the control system 24 is adapted, based on particular malting protocols, to subject each container 18 or each bucket 13 to particular sets of malting conditions.

[00185] In the arrangement shown in figures 1 to 4, each bucket 13 of the container 18a can be subject to the same set of malting conditions (the first malting conditions), and each bucket 13 of the container 18b will be subject to the same set of malting conditions (the second malting conditions); however, the first malting conditions may differ with respect to the second malting conditions.

[00186] In the arrangement shown in figures 6 and 7, each non-perforated bucket 13 can be subject to different set of malting conditions when compared to any of the other non-perforated buckets 13. In this particular arrangement, each individual valve 22 (for delivering the fluid to the bucket 13) and each individual valves 23 are independently activated with respect to the other valves 22 and 23 of the valves manifolds 42 and 25; in this manner, the buckets 13 are subject to malting protocols which differ with respect to each other.

[00187] As mentioned before, the present embodiments of the invention are capable of testing several seed samples in a single malting cycle with each seed sample being subjected to a set of malting conditions that may differ from the set of malting conditions that are subjected to the other seed samples. This is particularly advantageous because relatively large sets of malting conditions may be tested at the same time in connection with a plurality of seed samples coming from different sources.

[00188] As discussed before, in connection with Figures 1 to 3, each container 18 (comprising a plurality of seed samples coming from different sources) are subjected to a particular set of malting conditions that differs with respect to the set of malting conditions of the other container(s) 18; thus, when a multitude of containers 18 are used, it is possible by using the system in accordance with the present embodiments of the invention to subject a multitude of sets of malting conditions (defined by malting protocols) to a multitude of seeds samples at the same time. This expedites enormously the process conducted with conventional malting apparatuses. In conventional malting apparatuses, it is only possible to subject the seeds to a single malting condition (governed by a single malting protocol) at one time.

[00189] Further, as discussed before with respect figure 6, there is provided a valve manifold 42 comprising a plurality of valves 22, with each valve 22 delivering fluid to a single bucket 13; in this manner, each non-perforated bucket 13 is independently fed the fluid allowing that each seed sample (contained in a bucket 13) may be subject to a set of malting conditions that differs from the sets of malting conditions that are tested on the rest of buckets 13. Thus, the system 10 permits, in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention, that each bucket 13 will be subject to a particular set of malting conditions that differs from the set of malting conditions to which the other buckets 13 will be subjected to. This permits simultaneously evaluating the performance of multitude of malting protocols with all buckets 13 being subjected to a set of malting conditions that may differ with respect to each other. The process for evaluating the performance of a plurality of malting protocols is greatly expedited due to the fact that, in accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, the plurality of malting protocols may be evaluated simultaneously during a single malting cycle.

[00190] Furthermore, Figure 6 shows each non-perforated bucket 13 individually controlled (as described before there are valves 22 and 23 assigned to each bucket for delivery and removal of the fluid) therefore, system 10 comprises a multitude of buckets 13 including malting samples. [00191 ] Moreover, as mentioned with respect to figure 8, for example each non- perforated bucket 13 may comprise a thermal sleeve for controlling the temperature within each bucket 13. Thus, the malt protocols to be tested for each bucket 13 may also vary with respect to the temperature to be subjected to each seed sample contained in each bucket 13.

[00192] Testing in a single cycle a multitude of sets of malting conditions (determined each malting condition by a particular malting protocol) is in sharp contrast with the current malting apparatus available, which permit to only test a single malting protocol.

[00193] The present embodiments of the invention open a door for improving the testing process of the new seed varieties, for example barley varieties in a short time. This is particularly true, because, as mentioned before, a multitude of malting protocols may be tested in a single cycle and not only as it is currently done.

[00194] In respect to the above, to be able to provide the optimum malt quality - that a particular batch of seeds (such as barley) can provide - it is essential to be able to test as much as possible different malting protocols in a short time.

[00195] In fact, the inventors of the present embodiments of the invention have shown that a change in air-rest stages duration has significantly changed Free Amino Nitrogen levels and other malt quality parameters. The duration of wet and air-rest stages is important for barley seeds to take up water and promote the biochemical reactions relating to germination - but this varies due to variety and also conditions under which a variety is grown. The durations of wet, air-rest and germination can be changed as well as the number of cycles for wet and air-rest can also be changed. It can range from one to several cycles. All these changes of wet, air-rest, germination as well as variations in temperature will affect malt qualities.

[00196] Moreover, the present embodiments of the invention are particularly useful when screening for particular barley lines (generated during a particular breeding program) in a short time. It is known that different barley lines have different genetics potentials for suitable malt qualities; thus, each barley line should be subject, during a single malting process, to a plurality of malting protocols in order to determine the full potential of the barley line undergoing the malting process. This because each barley line, developed during breeding programs, has its unique genetic properties; thus, its full potential (related to the malt quality of the barley line) may not be revealed if only one standard malting protocol is used to screen and select potential barley lines. By using several malting protocols during a single malting cycle for malting particular breeding lines, the chances to find the breeding lines with the most malting potential (among the population of breeding lines that have been generated) is increased; this is because not any malting protocol may unleash the full malting potential of a particular breeding line - instead, the desired malt quality may be trigged only by a single particular malting protocol.

[00197] Furthermore, the present embodiments of the invention allow breeders to quickly select targeted barley lines in their breeding program due to the present embodiments of the invention permit subjecting, during a single malting cycle, one or more breeding lines to a multitude of malting protocols.

[00198] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. For example, the buckets 13 may be configured to have any shape.

[00199] Further, it should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments disclosed. The description of the embodiments above relates to malt grain such as barley to produce different quality malts for testing performance of a protocol for best resulting malts; other crop seeds including non-cereal grains may be used.

[00200] In alternative arrangements in accordance with the first and second embodiments of the invention, the area 12 may comprise a laboratory setting providing a room in which a plurality of systems 10 are located. The room is adapted to control the environment within the room by controlling, for example, the temperature and humidity within the room for conducting the malting process in accordance with the present embodiments of the invention.

[00201] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims

1 . A system for subjecting one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds to malting processes defined by malting protocols, the system being adapted to conduct a particular malting process on each seed sample, each particular malting process being conducted on a particular seed sample is controlled by a malting protocol that differs from the malting protocols applied to the other seed samples, wherein the particular malting processes are conducted simultaneously on all the seed samples during a single malting cycle.

2. A system for subjecting one or more seed samples to malting processes defined by malting protocols, the system comprising an area adapted (1) for controlling within an inner space of the area a particular temperature and (2) for containment in separate containers of at least two seed samples selected from a single or from a plurality batches of the seeds, the system further comprising fluid delivery means for delivering fluid at a particular moment of time, at a particular flowrate and during a particular period of time to the containers, and fluid collection means for collecting the fluid exiting the containers being adapted to allow fluid flow between the interior and exterior of the containers, and a control system for controlling the fluid delivery and collection means and controlling the temperature within the inner space, wherein the malting processes are conducted simultaneously on all the seed samples during a single malting cycle.

3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the control system is adapted to control the collection means for collecting based on the malting protocols during an extraction period of time, the fluid from the containers after a particular wet-stage period of time starting from the completion of the delivery period of time.

4. A system according to claims 2 or 3, wherein the control system is adapted to control the delivery means for delivering again fluid, based on each malting protocol, into the containers after an air-rest period of time commencing from the completion of the extraction period of time.

5. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is used for testing the performance of one or more sets of malting protocols for one or more seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds.

6. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is used for screening and selecting barley lines that provide a particular malt quality.

7. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the fluid comprises water.

8. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the system further comprises humidity control means controlled by the control system.

9. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the humidity within the inner space is controlled by virtue of open water surfaces of the fluid delivery means and/or fluid collection means.

10. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the inner space comprises either the interior of a thermal box, or the interior of a room adapted to control temperature and humidity within the room.

11. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein there are two or more containers arranged on the top of each other and in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other.

12. A system according to claim 11 , wherein each container comprises either a particular seed sample that differs with respect to the seed samples contained in the other containers, or a particular seed sample being the same than the seed samples contained in the other containers.

13. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the fluid delivery means are configured for delivering the fluid to a plurality of containers, the fluid being delivered to each container at a particular delivery moment of time and at a particular delivery flowrate of fluid during a particular delivery period of time, wherein the particular delivery moment of time, the particular delivery flowrate of fluid and the particular delivery period of time for each container differ with respect to the other containers or are the same with respect to the other containers.

14. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the fluid collection means are configured for extracting the fluid from a plurality of containers, the fluid being extracted from each container at a particular extraction moment of time starting after completion of a wet stage period of time, a particular extraction flowrate of fluid during a particular extraction period of time, wherein the particular extraction moment of time, the particular extraction flowrate of fluid and the particular extraction period of time for each container differs with respect to the other containers.

15. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the control system is adapted to control the fluid delivery means in order that the fluid delivered to a first container is done at a first delivery moment of time, a first delivery flowrate of fluid during a first delivery period of time, and the fluid delivered to second containers is done at second delivery moments of time, second delivery flowrates of fluid during second delivery periods of time, wherein the first delivery moment of time, the first delivery flowrate of fluid and the first delivery period of time differ from the second delivery moments of time, the second delivery flowrates of fluid and the second delivery periods of time

16. A system according to claim 15, wherein the second moments of time, the second flowrates of fluid during the second periods of time differ with respect each other or are the same with respect each other.

17. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 16, wherein the control system is adapted to control the fluid collection means in order that the fluid extracted from a first container is done at a first extraction moment of time starting after completion of a first wet stage period of time and a first fluid extraction flowrate of fluid during a first fluid extraction period of time, and the fluid extracted from second containers is done at second fluid extraction moments of time starting after completion of second wet stage periods of time and second fluid extraction flowrates of fluid during second fluid extraction periods of time, wherein the first extraction moment of time and the first fluid extraction flowrate of fluid and the first fluid extraction period of time differ from the second fluid extraction moments of time and the second fluid extraction flowrates of fluid and the second fluid extraction periods of time.

18. A system according to claim 17, wherein the second extraction moments of time, the second extraction flowrates of fluid and the second extraction periods of time differ with respect each other.

19. A system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the first and second extraction flowrates of fluid and the first and second extraction periods of time are the same.

20. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 19, wherein the control system is adapted to control, over any of the particular periods of time, the fluid delivery means to deliver a particular quantity of fluid to each container such that the seeds contained in the containers are covered with fluid.

21 . A system according to any one of claims 2 to 20, wherein the control system is adapted to control over a particular third period of time the fluid delivery means and the fluid collection means in order that the fluid delivered to and extracted from the first container and the second containers is done at one or more instances, the instances being spaced apart fourth periods of time.

22. A system according to claim 21 , wherein the fourth periods of time between concatenated instances have different values during the third period of time.

23. A system according to claim 22, wherein the fourth periods of time between concatenated instances have the same values during the third period of time.

24. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 23, wherein the containers are configured for controlling the temperature within the container in order that the seed sample contained in each container is subjected to a particular temperature.

25. A system according to claim 24, wherein the temperature within the first container differs from the second container.

26. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 25, wherein the fluid is delivered to the containers via gravity and discharged from the containers via gravity.

27. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 26, wherein the fluid delivery means comprise a tray for delivering the fluid to the containers.

28. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 27, wherein the fluid collection means comprise a tray for receiving the fluid exiting the containers.

29. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 28, wherein the inner space is heated.

30. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 25, wherein fluid is delivered to the containers and discharged from the containers via pump means controlled by the control system.

31 . A system according to any one of claims 2 to 30, wherein the fluid delivery means comprises a delivery fluid reservoir and delivery valve means fluidly connected to the delivery fluid reservoir.

32. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 31 , wherein the fluid collection means comprises a collection fluid reservoir and collection valve means is either adapted to deliver the fluid to the collection fluid reservoir, or connected to piping for discharging the fluid out of the inner area.

33. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 32, wherein the delivery valve means are operatively connected to the control systems for activation and deactivation of the delivery valve means and controlling the flow rate and duration of flow of the fluid.

34. A system according claim 33, wherein the delivery valve means comprise at least one delivery valve for controlling the rate of fluid flow and the duration that the fluid will be delivered to the containers.

35. A system according to claims 33 or 34, wherein the rate of fluid flow and the duration that the fluid will be delivered to each container is such that the amount of fluid delivered to each container covers the seeds samples in their entirety.

36. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 35, wherein the collection valve means are operatively connected to the control systems for activation and deactivation of the collection valve means and controlling the flow rate and duration of flow of the fluid.

37. A system according to claim 36, wherein the collection valve means comprise at least one collection valve for controlling the rate and duration of fluid flow exiting each container for extracting substantially all of the fluid from the container.

38. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 37, wherein the system comprises at least one shelf and a plurality of buckets mounted on the shelf, each bucket being adapted to receive fluid from a delivery valve and being adapted to be fluidly connected to the collection valve for extraction of the fluid from the bucket.

39. A system according to claim 38, wherein the fluid delivery means comprise a delivery valve manifold comprising a plurality of delivery valves, each delivery valve being adapted to be independently operated by the control system for delivering a specific amount of fluid to one bucket.

40. A system according to claims 38 or 39, wherein the fluid collection means comprise a collection valve manifold comprising a plurality of collection valves, each collection valve being adapted to be independently operated by the control system for extracting the fluid from one bucket.

41 . A system according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the inner area is adapted to control the temperature of the interior of each bucket via temperature control means.

42. A system according to claims 41 , wherein the temperature control means is operatively connected to the control system for the control system to set the temperature within the inner space of the area.

43. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 43, wherein the area comprises either a thermal box having an inner space for containment of the buckets for receiving of the seed samples, or a laboratory setting.

44. A system according to any one of claims 38 to 43, wherein the inner space comprises a plurality of shelves for receiving the buckets.

45. A system according to claims 43 or 44, wherein the thermal box comprises an incubator comprising the inner space being adapted for cooling and heating of the inner space.

46. A system according to claim 45, wherein the incubator and the control system are operatively connected to each other to operate the incubator for controlling the temperature and humidity in the inner space and the fluid delivery and fluid collection means.

47. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 46, wherein the control system is adapted to be operatively connected wirely or wirelessly to computer means for operation of the incubator and the fluid delivery means and/or provision of data representative of the malting protocols for testing of the seed samples.

48. A system according to any one of claims 17 to 47, wherein the control system is adapted to control the collection means for collecting based on the malting protocols the fluid from the first and second containers after the first and second wet-stage periods of time starting from the completion of the first and second fluid delivery periods of time.

49. A system according to any one of claims 17 to 48, wherein the control system is adapted to control (1 ) the delivery means for delivering again fluid, based on the malting protocols, into the first container after a first air-rest period of time commencing from the completion of the fluid extraction period of time, and (2) the delivery means for delivering again fluid into the second containers after second air-rest periods of time commencing from the completion of second fluid extraction periods of time.

50. A system according to any one of claims 48 or 49, wherein the control system is adapted to control over a particular third period of time the fluid delivery means and the fluid collection means in order that the fluid delivered to and extracted from the first container and the second containers is done at one or more instances, the instances being spaced apart fourth periods of time.

51 . A system according to claims 50, wherein the periods of time of the wet and air- rest stages of each instance are the same or differ with respect to the wet and the periods of time of the wet and air-rest stages of each of the other instances.

52. A method for testing the performance of a plurality of malting protocols for a plurality of seed samples collected from one or more batches of seeds, the method comprises the step of filling a plurality of buckets with the seed samples and using the system as defined in any one of claims 1 to 51 for subjecting each seed sample to a particular malting protocol or plurality seed samples to plurality of malting protocols during a single malting cycle.

53. A method for screening one or more barley lines that provide a particular malt quality, the method comprises the step of filling a plurality of buckets with seed samples of each barley lines and using the system as defined in any one of claims 1 to 51 for subjecting each seed sample to particular malting protocols.

54. A method according to claim 53, wherein the plurality seed samples comprise seeds from either the same barley line or different barley lines.