Simulation of Pressing Effect of Press Wheel with Different Rims by Discrete Element Method

Abstract

Pressing is an important part of precision seeding operation, which has an important effect on crushing soil. In order to enhancing the effect of soil crushing, some press wheels with flange rim are used. But further research is needed to evaluate whether the use of these press wheels affect the actual seeding depth that will affect precision seeding quality. Three kinds of press wheels, with the smooth rim, circular flange rim and rib rim respectively were designed, and the PFC3D discrete element method (DEM) software was used to simulate the pressing processes of these press wheels, and the contact force between the rim and soil, soil displacement and porosity were analyzed. It was concluded that the press wheel with the smooth rim is better than others in precision seeding operation.