Parameters of a robotic loading device for selection seeder

Abstract

In cassette-type selection seeders, a cassette loading device sequentially conveys cassettes filled with seed material to the planting mechanism of the seeder. (Research purpose) The research aims to calculate the geometric parameters and identify the cassette material in the development of a robotic cassette loading device for the selection seeder. (Materials and methods) The geometric parameters of the cassettes are determined based on the existing cassette loading device of the model SSS-2-6 selection seeder and the selection sowing specifi cations. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with the wavenumber range of 400-4000 cm–1 is used to identify a polymer material suitable for manufacturing cassettes and a guide plate for a selection seeder. (Results and discussion) The geometric parameters of cassettes, cells, cassette blocks, and guide plates are determined by using various design solutions employed in previous cassettes for the loading device. The objectives of the study also encompass the selection of polymer material for the manufacture of the cassette using 3D modeling techniques. To accomplish this, it was necessary to identify the specific polymer material of the plastic cassette and guide plate samples currently used in the loading device of the SSSe-6 selection seeder. The qualitative composition of these samples is determined by infrared spectroscopy using a Simex FT-801 Infrared Fourier spectrometer. (Conclusions) The geometric parameters essential for modeling, manufacturing and further development of a robotic cassette loading device are calculated. It has been established that the device is made of a copolymer consisting of acrylonitrile, polybutadiene and styrene (known as ABS plastic), which has a sliding friction coefficient approximately 0.47-0.54. In order to decrease the coefficient of cassette friction when driving along the guide plates, additives like ceramide can be introduced into ABS during their production enhancing its sliding properties.

Keywords

• selection seeder
• cassette loading device
• cassette design
• technological process
• polymer materials
• spectroscopy