Design and Comparative Analysis of an Improved Push Weeder for Farming
摘要
Controlling weeds is still a major problem in agriculture, leading to decreased yields of crops, soil degradation, and increased costs of production. The current weeders are not always efficient, durable, or adaptable to different soil conditions and thus there is a need for improved options. The research presents a new type of weeder, a drum weeder, which addresses many of these concerns. Three designs were made and analyzed with Finite Element Analysis (FEA)-single blade, tine, and drum-type weeders. The study measured critical forces like penetration force, rolling resistance, and torque advantage in both wet and dry soil. The results from the tests indicated that the drum weeder has superior performance, with a maximum force capacity of 870.6 N and no deformation in dry conditions. Its active peripheral teeth improved performance by over 50% compared to other models. Its design also improved durability, stress distribution, and torque with the use of planetary gears. This new model showed great improvement in soil protection, weeding efficiency, and reduction in labor effort. The research proves that the newly designed drum weeder has the potential as an effective tool in agriculture.