Bucket Size Optimization for Metering Device in Garlic Planter Using Discrete Element Method

Abstract

In this study, the discrete element method was used to optimize the bucket size for the metering device in a garlic planter for enhancing the productivity of garlic farming according to the garlic size. Statistical information concerning the actual shape of garlic cloves was incorporated, and the mechanical properties of garlic were determined using the bulk density, sliding test, and repose angle test for enhancing the fidelity of the simulation model. The optimal bucket size achieving the target plant rate of 97.5% was determined using the developed discrete element model for the three garlic size groups. The linear search method was used for optimization, and batch simulation was performed to validate the optimized results and confirm the performance index of the metering device. A Gaussian distribution based on statistical information accounted for the various garlic sizes in each group. Finally, a metering test verified the reliability of the optimization technique. The differences between the simulation and test results were within 10% for all performance indices, including missing plant rate, multi-plant rate, and planting rate, indicating the high reliability of the analysis model. Subsequently, the larger garlic groups (Groups 2 and 3) exhibited metering performance close to the target plant rate.

Design and Testing of Seed Push Wheel for High-Speed Precision Seed Metering Device for Corn With Internal Seed Filling and Positive Pressure Airflow

“…After the addition of synchronous contour wheels to the seeding unit, the increased seeding height necessitates the use of corrugated tubes to guide the seeds accurately into the planting furrow. However, the random movement of seeds within the tube can lead to collisions and bouncing, resulting in reduced uniformity in seed spacing (Awad et al, 2022;Im et al, 2023). Liu et al (2015) used three-dimensional reverse engineering to improve the curved seed guide tube, based on the "zero-speed seeding" method, which reduces the horizontal bouncing and slipping of the seeds.…”