In order to solve the problem of poor working performance due to incidental picking-up loss of a spring-tooth drum pickup, the coupling analysis approach of Automated Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) and Discrete Element Method (DEM) was proposed to reveal its motion characteristics. The coupled ADAMS-DEM method was used to construct the pickup simulation model with rice straw as the object. The validation tests were carried out in the field with different operating forward speeds and straw coverages. The results showed that when the baler worked with a rake, the straw loss rate tended to rise with the increase of the operating speed and the straw coverage. Tests results indicated periodic peaks and valleys of the forces between the rollers and the track chute, which could increase the wear of the track chute. In addition, the movement and variation of the straw and the distribution of different straw lengths after picking up were analyzed. The research results can provide a reference for the design and optimization of a pickup in the later period.

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A mould pressing unit is used to investigate the effects of preheating temperature on the compact characteristics of ground corn stalk. Diameter of 10 mm mould was used to pellet the corn stalk; the preheating temperature was applied to the forming mould ranges 60 to 180 o C with 20 o C interval. Firstly, for each given temperature in experimental processing, it indicates that the sequential maximum force of each compression stroke increased follows the exponential form in close-end compression. The general Maxwell model is found effective in describing the viscous-elastic mechanical property of corn stalk powder. Secondly, the force transition stage from closed-end to open-end compression is resolved. To reach a steady compression stage, the mechanical behaviours should be similar in every stroke. Thirdly, the pelleting stage in open-end compression is studied at different temperatures. This research provides some foundational work for bio-mass solidification, especially for corn stalk pellet production.

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