Development of a low‐cost 3D imaging system for sorghum root phenotyping

Root system architecture plays a critical role in water and nutrient acquisition, particularly in semi‐arid environments where drought stress limits crop productivity. Despite advances in three‐dimensional (3D) root phenotyping, no dedicated low‐cost imaging platform currently exists for sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) in the United States. The objective of this study was to design and construct an affordable laboratory‐based 3D imaging system for sorghum root phenotyping modeled after the digital imaging of root traits (3D) framework. The system consists of a rotating aluminum frame equipped with eight high‐resolution digital cameras controlled by Raspberry Pi microcomputers, uniform LED lighting, and background reference markers to ensure accurate image alignment. Approximately 2000–3000 overlapping images are captured in under 5 min and processed using structure‐from‐motion algorithms to generate colorized 3D point clouds. The total system cost was approximately $6000, substantially lower than commercial imaging technologies such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Initial assembly demonstrated strong geometric alignment and minimal distortion, enabling measurement of key root traits including volume, nodal root angle, and whorl spacing. This platform provides a reproducible and scalable approach for sorghum root phenotyping and addresses a critical gap in crop research tools for semi‐arid production systems. The system also offers educational value by integrating engineering design, programming, and plant science, supporting interdisciplinary training and future genotype‐phenotype studies aimed at improving drought resilience.