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Maize crop is one of the major crops in India, and mechanization of different operations in Maize cultivation is essential in order to increase the productivity. Harvesting of Maize is one of the operations which is labour intensive and involves drudgery. Though reapers are available for other crops, and reapers specifically developed for harvesting Maize are not found in the Indian market. To address the identified need, a detailed review of the literature related to Maize crop cultivation practices in general and harvesting of Maize, in particular, was carried out. Field study visiting different farms in the region of north Karnataka where Maize is cultivated largely was carried out. Based on the literature review and data collected from field study, the complete specification of the reaper for Maize crop suitable for small farmers was developed. The specification developed included important parameters like required ground clearance, wheel diameter, engine power, cutter blade diameter, distance between the wheels, weight of the reaper and cutting speed. Different product concepts were developed to meet the specifications, and the most suitable one was selected. All the sub-systems of the selected concept, namely reaper mechanism, traction system and the frame, were synthesized and designed to meet the requirements. The fabrication of all the sub-systems and the assembly was carried out in-house. The developed reaper has been tested for its working and found to be satisfactory. The estimated reduction in cost of harvesting is found to be in the range of 80% apart from reducing drudgery.

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