Numerical Simulation and Experiment of Motion of Rice Seed in Pneumatic Seed-Metering Device

Abstract

A new-style pneumatic precision seed-metering device for super rice seed was proposed. This paper analyzed the working process for seed-metering device. The movement of rice seed in the “L” tube was simulated by finite element analysis software. The speed distribution, pressure distribution of air in the “L” tube and the trajectory of rice seed were solved. Results of the analyses indicated that there were partial reflux at the entrance and elbow; while the airflow moved steadily at the straight pipe. Based on the fabricated device, the motion trajectory was studied by high speed video camera. Experiment was used to analyze the effect of parameters. The results showed that the experimental trajectory was in accordance with theoretical models.