Design and Fabrication Of Manually Operated

Crop Transplanter Via Suitable Mechanism

A Project Report Submitted
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the Degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
Mechanical Engineering

by
Prashant Singh Gautam(1616440082)
Rishabh Mishra (1616440091)
Vikash Singh (1616440126)
Vipul Vinod (1616440127)

Under the Supervision of

Mr. Deepak Awasthi
Assistant Professor
Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur

to the
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

DR. A. P. J. ABDUL KALAM TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY,

LUCKNOW
MAY, 2020
i
Design and Fabrication Of Manually Operated
Crop Transplanter Via Suitable Mechanism
A Project Report Submitted
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the Degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
Mechanical Engineering

by
Prashant Singh Gautam(1616440082)
Rishabh Mishra (1616440091)
Vikash Singh (1616440126)
Vipul Vinod (1616440127)

Under the Supervision of

Mr. Deepak Awasthi
Assistant Professor
Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur

to the
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

DR. A. P. J. ABDUL KALAM TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY,

LUCKNOW
MAY, 2020

ii
 CERTIFICATE
Certified that Prashant Singh Gautam (1616440082), Rishabh Mishra (1616440091),
Vikash Singh (1616440126), Vipul Vinod (1616440127) has carried out the project work
presented in this project report entitled “Design And Fabrication Of Manually Operated
Crop Transplanter Via Suitable Mechanism” for the award of Bachelor of Technology
from Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow, under my supervision. The
project report embodies results of original work, and studies are carried out by the student
their self and the contents of the thesis do not form the basis for the award of any other
degree to the candidate or to anybody else from this or any other University / Institution.

Signature
(Mr. Deepak Awasthi)
(Assistant Professor)
(F31)

Date:

iii
 ABSTRACT

To develop a Mechanism for transplanting crop seedling using the Method of Four Bar Mechanism. To
reduce the man power and increase the crop production and reduce the cost. It is an agribot which do not
need any kind of fuel or electricity so it easily affordable by any farmer and has no fixed boundaries to
work on. This Model consists of two arcs of length 35 CM with one end angled at 120 degree and it is
having a fork shape structure on that particular end. When Machine is pulled then by the wheel Motion.
Ciockwise Motion is also providaed in input link and as a result that link transverse the Motion to the
output link which as a result pick the crop plant and implant in the wat mud. Biggest advantage of our
project is that it is totally Manually and has starting budget of Rs 6000 only which is easily affordable of
the farmers.

It helps to automate slow repetitive and dull tasks for farmers, allowing them to focus More on
improving overall production yields. Seeding by this crop transplanter saves too Much efforts of human
being. Class of people who do not capable to buy expensive agribot can easily uses this kind of
machines. Such techniques help to enhance the crop production and reduce human efforts.

iv
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It gives us a great sense of pleasure to present the report of the B. Tech Project undertaken
during B. Tech. Final Year. We owe special debt of gratitude to Assistant Professor Mr.
Deepak Awasthi , Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pranveer Singh Institute of
Technology, Kanpur, for his constant support and guidance throughout the course of our
work. His sincerity, thoroughness and perseverance have been a constant source of
inspiration for us. It is only his cognizant efforts that our endeavors have seen light of the
day.

We also take the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of Mr. Nitin Srivastava,
Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology,
Kanpur, for his full support and assistance during the development of the project.

We also do not like to miss the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of all faculty
members of the department for their kind assistance and cooperation during the
development of our project. Last but not the least; we acknowledge our family & friends
for their contribution in the completion of the project.

Signature: Signature:
Name: Prashant Singh Gautam Name: Rishabh Mishra
Roll No.: 1616440082 Roll No.: 1616440091
Date: Date:

Signature: Signature:
Name: Vikash Singh Name: Vipul Vinod
Roll No.:1616440126 Roll No.: 1616440127
Date: Date:

v
 LIST OF TABLE

SR. NO. NAME PAGE NO.

1 Effect of different puddling treatments on soil bulk 53
density at different depths at 2 DAT
2 Effect of different Puddling treatments on soil bulk 54
density a different depths at 120 DAT
3 55
Effect of different puddling treatments on infiltration rate
4 56
Effect of different puddling treatments on puddling index
5 57
Effect of different puddling treatments on machine
parameters
6 58
Effect of different puddling treatments on agronomical
parameters
7 62
Economic analysis of rice transplanter under different
puddling conditions

vi
 LIST OF FIGURES

SR.NO. NAME PAGE NO.

1 Manually Operated Crop Transplanter 3

2 3D Drawing of Crop Transplanter 4

3 Various cases of Four Bar Mechanism 7

4 Hand powered mechanical transplanter 11

5 Walking Behind Type Mechanical Rice Transplanter 12

6 Self-propell Type Rice transplanter 13

7 Sheets of Mild Steel 16

8 A Plummer block bearing 17

9 2-D model of Plummer block 18

10 A bicycle chain 19

11 Cycle Sprockets 19

12 2-D diagram of Pinion showing mean diameter 180 mm 20

13 2-D diagram of Pinion showing mean diameter 80 mm 20

14 Nut and Bolt assembly 21

15 Mechanism showing the path of the fork 22

16 Four Bar Mechanism 23

17 Crank and Rocker Mechanism 24

18 3D Frame model 25

19 2D Diagram Frame model 26

20 3D Model of Top Shaft 27

21 2D Diagram of Top Shaft 28

22 3D Model of Link Shaft 28

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23 2D Diagram of Link Shaft 29

24 3D Model of the Handle 29

25 2D Diagram of the Handle 30

26 3D Model of the Smallest Links 30

27 2D Diagram of the Smallest Links 31

28 3D Model of the Medium Links 31

29 2D Diagram of the Medium Links 32

30 3D Model of the Largest Links 32

31 2D Diagram of the Largest Links 33

32 Welding Operation 37

33 Drilling Operation 38

34 Surface Grinding Operation 39

35 Turning Operation 40

36 Framing Operation 41

37 Powder Coating operation 43

38 Round tubes being cut by a Metal Cutter 44

39 Frame in its Initial Stage 44

40 Mounting of Bearings and Shaft 45

41 Chain put over the sprockets after alignment 46

42 Linkage Assembly 47

43 Enlarged view of Linkage Assembly 47

44 Rice Transplanter after assembly 48

45 A back view of transplanting operation 59

viii
46 A back view of transplanting operation by 8 row self- 60
propelled riding type Rice Transplanter Bottom

ix
 TABLE OF CONTENT

Content Page No.

Certificate iii
Abstract iv
Acknowledgements v
List of Tables vi
List of Figures vii-ix

CHAPTER 1 : INTRIDUCTION 1-8

1.1 General 1-4
1.2 Background Information 4
1.2.1 Direct Seeding 4-6
1.2.2 Transplanting 6
1.3 Working 7-8
CHAPTER 2 : LITERATURE REVIEW 9-15
2.1 Transplanting by hand 9
2.2 Manually Operated Transplanters 10-11
2.3 Engine Operated Transplanters 11-15
CHAPTER 3 : DESIGN 16-35
3.1 Materials And Methods 16-25
3.1.1 Materials 16-21
3.1.1.1 Base Materials Mild Steel 16-17
3.1.1.2 Bearing 17-18
3.1.1.3 Chain 18
3.1.1.4 Sprockets 19-21
3.1.1.5 Nuts and Bolts 21
3.1.2 Working Mechanism 22-25
3.1.2.1 Four Bar Mechanism 23
3.1.2.2 Crank And Rocker Mechanism 23-25
3.2 CAD Models And Specifications 25-35
3.2.1 Frame 25-26
3.2.2 Shaft 26-29
3.2.2.1 Top Shaft 27
3.2.2.2 Link Shaft 28-29
3.2.3 Handle 29-30
3.2.4 Links 30-35
3.2.4.1 Small Link 30-31
3.2.4.2 Medium Link 31-32
3.2.4.3 Longest Link 32-35

x
CHAPTER 4 : FABRICATION 36-49
4.1 Lists of Operations 36-43
4.1.1 Welding 36
4.1.2 Drilling 37
4.1.3 Grinding 38
4.1.4 Turning 39
4.1.5 Facing 40-41
4.1.6 Finishing Process 42-43
4.1.6.1 Powder Coating 43
4.2 Fabrication Stages 44-49
4.2.1 Marking and Cutting 44
4.2.2 Frame Formation 45
4.2.3 Mounting of Bearing and Shafts 46
4.2.4 Alignment of Sprockets and Chains 47
4.2.5 Assembly of Linkage 48
4.3 Finishing And Powder Coating 48
4.4 Cost Estimation 48-49
CHAPTER 5 : TESTING AND ANALYSIS 50-51
CHAPTER 6 : RESULT AND DISCUSSION 52-62
CHAPTER 7 : CONCLUSION 63-64
CHAPTER 8 : FUTURE SCOPE 65
REFERENCES 66-67

xi
 CHAPTER 01
INTRODUCTION
1.1 General
India is known to be an farming country. About 71% of the population of India is dependent on
farming direct or indirect manner. The farmers are using the same methods and apparatus since
ages. As the time changes and things required to change as well in order to advance the techniques
and equipment‟s. So, that productivity of farming increases increases. Agriculture also plays a
important role in economy of India . Its contribution in the GDP is now extend one sixth of the
total. The Indian Government has also in progress taking steps in the form many initiatives in
which the farmers are made aware about the the different farming techniques. There are basically
five steps that a farmer needs to do correctly to get increased output. These five steps are as follows:
.Ploughing , Seed Sowing , Irrigation Process , Harvesting ,. Threshing .As we know that the rice
is one of the primary food of the India. A large number of farmers is carry the in the cultivating
process and rice production. Presenting the newer method to a rice farming will result in many
advantages such as:
• Better production

• Good quality
• Less labour required
• Saves time
• Low cost.

Today, As India is facing a huge problem of child labour and farming. The above point is that child
labour and farming are interconnected to a great amount. If the farming technology rises, it reduces
the labour requirement. This will help the country to throw away two major problems. The
maximum number of worker required in rice planting is for planting i.e. seed planting. Many new
instruments are developed and improved in order to saving the energy and get more end result in
this process. A rice planter is being developed countries like china, japan, etc. it is at present taken
in use. But here in India the rice planter machine not economical to farmer due to high price. The
rice planter in remote nation is run on diesel engine. The current situation of the Indian farmers is
not well sufficient to purchase the planters to use it. So, a manual rice planter is being developed
in India so reduce the cost of planter. In manual method of rice planting requires, 8-11labors are
required for one acre planting. Though, if a automated rice planter is used, three people can
transplant able to four acres in a day.
Over one billion people in the world are engaged in rice cultivation, and over three and a half
billion people worldwide depend on rice as a major food source. Due to the world population‟s

1
dependence on rice, it is crucial to implement efficient methods to increase rice yields as much as
possible. Many countries have experimented with new technologies to obtain improved results.
Thailand is the world‟s second largest rice exporter. India is predominately an agricultural country
with rice as one of its main food crop. It Produce about 80 million tons rice annually which is
about 22% of the world rice production. We are looking to introduce new technologies that could
potentially make the rice cultivation process more efficient for small-scale farmers. This new
seeding machine is designed to provide a new planting option that will decrease the amount of
seed used and lower production costs. [1]
The final objective consisted of determining how appropriate the new rice seeding technology
could be for use by small-scale farmers. Our findings revealed that farmers had never design of
the rice seeding technology. The goal of this project was to provide recommendations of possible
changes that could be made to a new rice sewing machine to better fit the needs of the farmers.
Minimizing the amount of seed used in planting and reducing the costs of planting the rice are two
goals of the new seeding technology.
In order to reach this goal, we identified what methods farmers currently use to grow rice and
determined the differences in yields and costs between traditional and new cultivation practices.
We identified what actions the Rice Seed Center had already taken to introduce the new technology
and determined that the farmers had no experience with the new rice sowing technology prior to
our arrival. Finally, we determined the appropriateness of the new rice sowing technology for use
by the small-scale farmers. [2]
A rice transplanter is a specialized machine fitted with a transplanter mechanism (usually having
some form of reciprocating motion) driven by the power from the live axle, in order to the
transplant rice seedlings onto paddy field. Rice is a major food grain crop of world. Unlike upland
row crops, cultivation of low land rice crop is a labour intensive process. In spite of the common
belief of availability of surplus agricultural labour in India, there actually exists a scarcity of skilled
agricultural workers during the peak transplanting seasons. If this operation is not done in time the
yield goes down. In view of this, there is an urgent need to mechanize this operation. The rice
translation process is generally manual which involves number of labour. The process of manual
rice transplantation is not so efficient as compared to the mechanical rice transplantation. Machine
transplanting using rice transplanter requires considerably less time and labour than manual
transplanting. It increases the approximate area that a person can plant.
The distribution of food grain production which shows the rice production is major in India
Mechanism is needed to raise productivity in rain fed upland and rain fed lowland and to increase
cropping intensity in irrigated farms. Seed drills give better plant population, reduce cost and give
higher yields of rice. Use of pregerminated paddy seeders in puddled wetland condition give
similar yield like manual transplanting but reduce labour requirement by 75-80%. The manual and
self-propelled transplanter reduces cost of transplanting by 45-50%

2
 .
Figure 1: Manually Operated Crop Transplanter

The rice translation process is generally manual which involves number of labour. The process of
manual rice transplantation is not so efficient as compared to the mechanical rice transplantation.
Machine transplanting using rice transplanter requires considerably less time and labour than
manual transplanting. It increases the approximate area that a person can plant. The distribution of
food grain production which shows the rice production is major in India Mechanism is needed to
raise productivity in rain fed upland and rain fed lowland and to increase cropping intensity in
irrigated farms. Seed drills give better plant population, reduce cost and give higher yields of rice.
Use of pre-germinated paddy seeders in puddled wetland condition give similar yield like manual
transplanting but reduce labour requirement by 75-80%. The manual and self-propelled
transplanter reduces cost of transplanting by 45-50%. The average rice yield in India is only 2.09
t/ha, as compared to 6.58 t/ha in Japan and world average of 3.91 t/ha.[2] In Asia, more than 60%
farmers have land holding size less than 2 ha. Therefore technology for small holding size plays a
very important role in developing countries. Rice transplanter is a specialized transplanter fitted to
transplant rice seedlings in paddy fields. One transplanter (2-row at a time) can transplant about
45 acres in a day (highly efficient as compare to traditional method). The recommended per acre
plant population is 80000 plants and with the help of Transplanter farmer can transplant 80000 to
120000 plants per acre.

3
 Figure 2: 3D Drawing of Crop Transplanter

1.2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The major sector in Sri Lanka is Agriculture sector. Paddy is the main crop in Agriculture sector.
The net extent harvested in 2010 Yala season was 376,024 hectares and the total production was
1,671,054 MT and the net extent harvested in 2010/2011 Maha season was 525,017 hectares and
the total production was 1,993,014 MT. The agriculture contribution to the national GDP was 11.9
in 2010. About 1.8 million farm families are engaged in paddy cultivation islandwide. The per
capita consumption of rice fluctuate around 100kg per year. Rice demand will increase at 1.1%
per year and to meet that requirement rice production must grow at the rate of 2.9% per year
(www.statistics.gov.lk).

According to the Department of Agriculture,Government of Sri Lanka(2010) the distribution of

the methods of establishment of rice in 2000 Yala season had been Broadcasting (85.5%), Row

4
seeding (0.1%), Transplanting in rows (1.4%), and Random Transplanting (12.6%). The method
of establishment of rice depends on

 Age of the variety

 Availability of moisture
 Climatic conditions
 Availability of inputs and labor
Among these reasons, availability of inputs and labor play a huge role on deciding the method of
establishment of rice.

METHODS OF ESTABLISHMENT
There are two methods practices in establishment of paddy .Those are Direct sowing / seeding
and Transplanting.

1.2.1 Direct sowing / seeding

There are two types
I. Wet seeding
II. Dry seeding

I. Wet seeding
Pre germinated seeds are broadcasted into puddled and leveled fields which are free from standing
water. At the time of puddling basal fertilizer should be mixed. Irrigation should be done when
seedlings are of about 5cm tall. The stand establishment by this method varies with the quality of
land preparation, weed competition, water management and rainfall during the initial period after
sowing.

II. Dry seeding

Ungerminated dry seeds are sown to dry soil either in rows or in random. Seed rate generally vary
with the severity of the environment and the type of physical damages of the seeds. The seed rate
varies from 150Kg/ha to 300Kg/ha depending on the level of weed infestation in dry seeded rice.
Direct sowing / seeding can be done in two ways by manually or mechanically and also be
subdivided in to two categories:

5
a) Row seeding: This method follows a uniform spacing between plants. This will require planting
guides to have uniform spacing. If use mechanical seeders ungerminated seeds have to be used.

b) Random seeding: In this method seeding is done without a definite distance. It is also known
as broadcasting. This is the highly practiced method in Sri Lanka.

Advantages of Direct seeding

 It requires less labor

 Direct seeded plants mature seven to ten days earlier than transplanted rice
 Well establishment of plant
 No transplanting shock to the plant
 Suitable method for short duration varieties

Disadvantages

 More seeds are required

 The seeds may be exposed to birds, rats and snails
 There is greater crop weed competition as rice and weeds are of similar age
 Mechanical weed control is difficult
 Flood and drought can damage the seeds

1.2.2 Transplanting
In this method seed is sown in one place and the seedlings after they have grown a little are
transplanted to another. This is done in order to get higher yields and less weeding. In Sri Lanka,
the extent of transplanted rice is decreasing due to the scarcity of labor, resources and reduction in
cultivation of 4-4 ½ month rice varieties. Manual transplanting is labor intensive and requires 250
-350 manhours per hectare that is 25% of the total labor requirement of the crop.

Paddy transplanting machine has problems of poor traction, sinkage and steerability. Efficient
working of self-propelled rice transplanter requires a suitable puddled soil condition, optimum
depth of puddling, degree of puddling and soil strength of puddled field. Transplanting will reduce
the ability to withstand moisture stress.Transplanting is recommended for 4-4 ½ month varieties
and when 3month varieties are transplanted it should be planted with young seedlings. It is
recommended to transplant when land preparation is not up to standard and water management is
poor.

6
1.3 Working
As the process is manual the worker has to provide the initial motion. The wooden plate boards
are used to maintain constant distance between the two successive plants. Then larger sprocket is
provided on the same shaft with the ground wheels and hence at the same time sprocket will also
rotate. The larger sprocket is in engagement with the smaller sprocket by using the chain drive. As
the power will get transmitted to the smaller sprocket, it will rotate. The speed is increased from
driver to driven shaft as we used 3:1 speed ratio. On the same shaft planting fork will be fixed
through the four bar linkage so that it will oscillate for certain angle. As the drive is provided by
the worker it will not have high speed and hence through this sprocket arrangement we have
increase the planting finger speed. As the planting finger will oscillate, it will pick the rice plant
from the tray and plant in mud. The planting fork is designed in such a way that rice plant should
be easy to pick during the motion and also it should pick during the downward motion only.

Figure 3: Various cases of Four Bar Mechanism

As the method is manual the worker has to provide the initial motion. When the rice planter will
move forward the ground wheels will get rotate. The wheels are provided with the fins so that they
can travel easily in the mud. The ground wheels are used to keep constant distance between the
two successive plants. Then we have larger sprocket is provided on the same shaft with the ground
wheels and hence at the same time sprocket will also rotate. Sprocket is in engagement with the
smaller sprocket by using the chain drive. As the power will get transmitted to the smaller sprocket,
it will rotate. Speed is increased from driver to driven shaft as we used 3:1 bar linkage so that it
will oscillate for certain angle. As the drive is provided by the worker it will not have high speed

7
and hence through this sprocket arrangement we have increase the planting finger speed. As the
planting speed ratio. On the same shaft planting finger will be fixed through the four finger will
oscillate, it will pick the rice plant from the tray and plant in mud. The planting finger is designed
in such a way that rice plant should be easy to pick during the motion and also it should pick during
the downward motion only. Availability of rice planter are is in varied choice and verity of several
things in the agriculture market. But those machine are very complex and has various part this
increase price of machine.

8
 CHAPTER 02
LITERATURE REVIEW

A rice transplanter is a specialized machine used to transplant rice seedlings in the field.A common
rice transplanter comprises:

 A seedling tray like a shed roof on which mat type rice nursery is set.
 A seedling tray shifter that shifts the seedling tray like the carriage of typewriters.
 Plural pickup forks that pick seedlings up from mat type nursery on the seedling tray and
put the seedlings into the earth, as if the seedling were taken between human fingers.
Machine transplanting using rice transplanters requires considerably less time and labor than
manual transplanting. It increases the approximate area that a person can plant from 700 to 10,000
m2/day (en.wikipedia.org/). Transplanting of paddy seedlings can be categorized into three groups
as fallows: 1. By band (manual) 2. Manually operated machines (work by man power) 3.
Mechanically operated machines (work by engine power).

2.1 TRANSPLANTING BY HAND

This method is good for small fields and to fill patches. Manual transplanting does not require
costly machines and is most suited for labor-surplus areas and for small rice fields. Manual
transplanting can be done in fields with less than optimal leveling and with varying water levels.
Seedlings are raised in a wet, dry or modified mat nursery. Proper nursery management will
produce healthy, vigorous seedlings.

Limitations:

 Transplanting is tedious and time-consuming (up to 30 man days /ha)

 Planting laborers can suffer from back problems(health risk)
 Difficult to get enough labor at peak periods to planton time
 Difficult to maintain optimum spacing and uniform plant density, especially with random
transplanting and contract labor
 Low plant density with contract transplanting on area basis lowers yields
 Risk, in rainfed areas, that seedlings (especially of modern varieties) may get too old before
rain falls and the field is ready to be planted

9
2.2 MANUALLY OPERATED TRANSPLANTERS
Manually operated translators are powered by man power. Operator has to move with the
transplanter and power the machine by hand. These machines are small enough to operate
manually. Various types of machines existin the world.In Sri Lanka, mainly those machines are
designed by FMRC (Farm Mechanization Research Center at Mahailluppallama) and FMTC
(Farm Mechanization Training Center at Anuradhapura) targeting small scale farmers in the
country. The details of the 6-row paddy seedling transplanter,introduced by FMRC,shown in the
Figure 1 (www.rajkumaragromachines.com/) are given below.
1. Function :

For transplanting mat type paddy seedlings. Suitable for all transplanted type paddy varieties.

2. Specification :
i. Type : Manually operated

ii. Power requirement : One operator and one labour to transport mat seedlings
iii. Overall dimensions : 1230 x 1250 x 835 mm
iv. Weight : 17 kg
v. Capacity : 0.25 ha / day

3. General Information :
The machine consists of a seedling tray, forks, handle and skids. By pressing the handle, the forks
pick-up the seedlings and plant them in 6 rows. For every stroke of the handle the seedling tray
moves side wards for uniform picking of seedlings by the forks. The operator has to pull the
machine while punching the handle at the desired spacing. The Row to row spacing is 200 mm.

10
 Figure 4: Hand powered mechanical transplanter

This is walking backward type. It can plant 2 rows simultaneously. The row spacing is 250mm,
planting distance can be adjustable. Specifications of this transplanter are given below:

 Weight: 20 kg
 Turning radius: 210 mm
 Max. planting depth: 65 mm
 Max planting frequency: 120/minute
 Resistance of crank: 1.5-2 kg
 Resistance of moving: 1-2 kg
 Planting speed: about 530 square meters/hour
This transplanting machine is designed to transplant bare plant without mud. The plant from
the nursery should be taken after wash off the soil or mud.Machine is operated by one hand
while it is pulled by the other hand. It has very light and compact structure for easy operation
and maintenance. This machine is used in china for small scale farmers.

2.3 ENGINE OPERATED TRANSPLANTERS

Engine operated translators are powered by engine. Operator has to move with the transplanter or
in some, the operator can sit on it. The walking behind type engine operated transplnters are light
enough to operate by one operator and other type transplanters carry one or more labors to operate
and to add mats to trays.Engine operated transplanters manufactured by China, Japan, South
Korea, India and other industrialized countries are not suitable for the Sri Lankan condition as the
field conditionsand spacing used by our farmers are different and the cost of the machines are
higher.

11
There are two type of engine operated transplanters exist
I. Walking behind ricetransplanter

II. Self-propell rice transplanters (Riding type)

I. Walking behind rice transplanter

This type of transplanter(Figure 3) required operator to walk behind and operate. (KUBOTA paddy
transplanters)
The rice transplanter consists of prime mover, transmission, engine, float, lugged wheels, seedling
tray, seedling tray shifter, pickup fork and pickup fork cleaner. It uses mat type nursery and
transplants the seedling uniformly without damaging them. The planting depth and hill-to-hill
spacing can be adjusted. Automatic depth control helps in maintaining uniform planting depth.
The machine has safety clutch mechanism, which prevents break down of planting device from
the impact against stones in the field. For operation, the machine is transported to the field and mat
type nursery is loaded in the tray of the transplanter. The machine is put in transplanting mode and
operated in the puddled field. The performance of the transplanter is checked within 2-3 m of travel
for transplanted seedlings for hill-tohill distance, depth of placement and number of seedling per
hill.If the transplanting is in order the machine is operated in normal transplanting operation.

Figure 5: Walking Behind Type Mechanical Rice Transplanter

Specifications of the transplanter are given below:

Length (mm) : 2450
Width (mm) :1480
Height (mm) :840-950

12
Weight (kg) :170
Row interval (mm) :300

Hill-to-hill spacing (mm) :117/131/147

Power Requirement (hp) :3.7, petrol engine

II. Self-propelld rice transplanters (Riding type)

This type of transplantersare capable to carry operators on the machine.
It is fitted with diesel engine. The machine transplants seedlings from mat type nursery in eight
rows in a single pass. The drive wheel receives power from the engine through V -belt, cone clutch
and gearbox. A propeller shaft from the gear box provides power to the transplanting mechanism
mounted over the float. The float facilitates the transplanter to slide over the puddled surface. The
tray containing mat type nursery for 8 rows is moved sideways by a scroll shaftmechanism, which
converts rotary motion received from the engine through belt-pulley, gear and universal joint shaft
into linear motion of a rod connected to the seedling tray having provision to reverse the direction
of movement of tray after it reaches the extreme positions at ends. Fixed fork with knock out lever
type planting fingers(cranking type) are moved by a four bar linkage togive the designed locus to
the tip of the planting finger.

Figure 6: Self-propell Type Rice transplanter

Specifications of this machine are given below:

Type : single wheel driven Length (mm) : 2410
Width (mm) :2130

13
Height (mm) :1300
Engine (hp ) :4.0, air cooled diesel Numbers of rows : 8
Row spacing (mm) :238 Hill-to-hill spacing (mm) : 100 - 200
Working speed (km/h) :1.5-2.0

Speed of travel on road (km/h): 8.24

Field capacity (ha/h) :0.13 – 0.20
Weight (kg) : 320

It is a six-row rice transplanter using mat type seedlings. The double acting transplanting
mechanism is run with, one sun and four planetary gears. The machine has provision for
adjustments of number of seedlings per hill, depth of transplanting and hill-to-hill distance. The
depth of transplanting is maintained constant, automatically during transplanting.The row-to-row
spacing is 300 mm and five setting of hill-to-hill distance from 120 to 220 mm can be
fixeddepending on desired plant population. The machine is powered with six spare seedling racks
for filling of traysintermittently. The machine is powered with a 12 hp air cool petrol engine and
it is provided with power steering.Depth of transplanting can be sett from 15 to 45
mm.Specifications of this machine are given below:

Overall length (mm) : 3020

Overall width (mm) :2140
Overall height (mm) :1530
Weight (kg) : 570

Rajvir Yadav et al. (2007) had accompanied an ergonomic valuation of six row manually operated
rice planter. Under their study the field capability of planter was higher than as compared to manual
method and average force required for pulling the planter was considered to be 131.32 N for male
and 146.12 N for female subjects. Martin and Chaffin (1972), McDaniel (1974), and Chaffin et
al. (1983) found that heights at which push-pull forces are applied are the most significant flexible
which massively disturbs the force output. During the period of 2008 A.K. Goel et al. conducted
an research on three planters namely OUAT, CRRI and Yanji rice planter. Here they concluded
that in accordance with the torn apart plot design of experiments 32 hours of sedimentation period
was suitable for operation of manual planter while the same was 57 hours for Yanji planter. In
2013 Rampuram reddy & Dr. N. Sandhya Shenoy conducted an financial examination of

14
Traditional SRI rice farming applies in Mahabubnagar district of Andra-Pradesh. It was concluded
that the SRI method of farming is beneficial to the paddy farmers as associated to outdated method.
The various information regarding the rice planter taken from various research articles. The
literature review is distributed into dissimilar field of examination like Ergo-Economical analysis
of different paddy planting operation, performance of self-propelled rice planter and its effect on
crop yield, theoretic growth of rice planting machine. This development and experiments were
conducted which gives the parameters, specification, problems arising in already exists planter and
progress& design procedure of planter. The unobtainability of the rice planter in western
Maharashtra zone gave the reason to find proper research in this zone and designing planter. The
lack of knowledge of use of this planter in the farmers which indications to makes the convenient
use. The research and literature on the design analysis of hand cranked and self-propelled with the
cam follower mechanism.

15
 CHAPTER 3

DESIGN

3.1 MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this section the materials used and methods followed to fabricate the riceplanter are
discussed in detail.

3.1.1 Materials

In this section, all the materials used in the fabrication of the rice transplanter are explained in
detail.

3.1.1.1 Base Metal – Mild Steel

Mild steel, also known as plain-carbon steel is now the most common form of steel because its
price is relatively low while it provides material properties that are acceptable for many
applications. Low-carbon steel contains approximately 0.05 to 0.15 percent carbons which
makes it malleable and ductile.

Mild steel has a relatively low tensile strength, but it is cheap and easy to form. It is often used
when large quantities of steel are needed, for example as structural steel. The density of mild
steel is approximately 7.85 g/cm3 (7850 kg/m3 or 0.284 lb/in3) and the Young's modulus is 210
GPa.
Figure 7 shows sheets of mild steel. Using this material square tubes and round tubes are made.

Figure 7: Sheets of Mild Steel

16
Properties

Mild steel is now the most common form of steel because its price is relatively low while it
provides material properties that are acceptable for many applications. It is found in almost
every product created from metal. It is wieldable, very durable (although it rusts), it is relatively
hard and is easily annealed.

Having less than 2% carbon, it will magnetise well and being relatively inexpensive can be
used in most projects requiring a lot of steel. Most of the everyday items made of steel have
some milder steel content. Anything from cookware, motorcycle frames through to motor car
chassis, use this, metal in their construction.

Because of its poor resistance to corrosion it must be protected by painting or otherwise sealed
to prevent it from rusting. At worst a coat of oil or grease will help seal it from exposure, and
help prevent rusting.

Being a softer metal it is easily welded. Its inherent properties allow electrical current to flow
easily through it without upsetting its structural integrity. This is in contrast to other high
carbon steels like stainless steel which requires specialised welding techniques.

Mild steel is far less brittle and can therefore give flexibility in its application where a more
brittle material would simply crack and break.

3.1.1.2 Bearing

A bearing is a machine element that constrains relative motion to only the desired motion, and
reduces friction between moving parts. The design of the bearing may, for example, provide
for free linear movement of the moving part or for free rotation around a fixed axis; or, it may
prevent a motion by controlling the vectors of normal forces that bear on the moving parts.
Many bearings also facilitate the desired motion as much as possible, such as by minimizing
friction. A Plummer block bearing is shown in Figure 8

Figure 8: A Plummer block bearing

17
A pillow block, also known as a Plummer block or bearing housing is a pedestal used to
provide support for a rotating shaft with the help of compatible bearings & various accessories.
Housing material for a pillow block is typically made of cast iron or cast steel. A two
dimensional diagram of the Plummer block is shown in Figure 9.

Figure 9: 2-D model of Plummer block

Features:

• Split Plummer block design allows for easy mounting and dismounting of
preassembled shafts.
• Sealing options - NSK offers a range of sealing options including oil seals, labyrinth
seals, or heavy-duty taconite seals.
• Case end covers are available.
• Multi-relubrication points are provided to ensure relubrication of the bearing
depending on orientation.
• Housing is supplied with spacer rings in order to provide axial location. Those can be
omitted for "free end" axial front.

3.1.1.3 Chain

A bicycle chain is a roller chain that transfers power from the pedals to the drive-wheel of a
bicycle, thus propelling it. Most bicycle chains are made from plain carbon or alloy steel, but
some are nickel-plated to prevent rust, or simply for aesthetics. Figure 10 shows the bicycle
chain which is used in bicycle. Most modern bicycle chains used with a single chaining and
single rear sprocket are conventional industrial bushing chain.
Length of the chain used in the rice transplanter between the two shafts i.e. top shaft and the
link shaft is 2640 mm.

18
 Figure 10: A bicycle chain

3.1.1.4 Sprockets

The normal function of a chain sprocket is not only to drive or be driven by the chain, but also
to guide and support it in its intended path. A cycle sprocket is shown in Figure 4.5. Sprockets
manufactured from good quality iron castings are suitable for the majority of applications. For
arduous duty it may be necessary to use steel sprockets having 0.4% carbon content. For
extremely arduous duty the tooth flanks should be flame hardened. There are other materials
which may be specified for particular requirements. Stainless steel for example is used in high
temperature or corrosive conditions. 2D diagrams of the pinion and the wheel used in this
project shown in Figure 12 and 13 respectively.

Figure 11: Cycle sprocket

19
 Figure 12: 2-D diagram of Pinion showing mean diameter 180 mm

Figure 13: 2-D Diagram of wheel showing mean diameter 80 mm

Calculation of Transmission Ratio:

Z1 = number of teeth of pinion

Z2 = number of teeth of wheel

N1 = speed of rotation of pinion

N2 = speed of rotation of wheel

20
 Speed of pinion driven by hand N2 = 12 rpm (optimum value)

Number of teeth in sprocket wheel Z2 = 40

Number of teeth in sprocket pinion Z1 = 18

Transmission ratio „i‟,

Since
Therefore,
Speed of rotation of wheel, N1 = 2.2 x 12 = 27 rpm
This infers that, in a minute the rice transplanter can transplant total 54 saplings in
two rows.

3.1.1.5 Nuts and Bolts

The basic, inner workings of something, that which makes something operates, on a basic
level. Bolts and nuts are used in several applications, with a primary function to hold things
or components together. A bolt, also known as a screw, does not always have to be used
together with a nut; however, a nut is always used together with a bolt. Nuts and bolts serve
as the fundamental components in several construction projects as they provide strong bonds
that do not break even under great amounts of pressure. Bolts and nuts can have several
different styles and types, each suited to match the needs of a particular application or the
needs of the job. Figure 14 shows a nut and bolt assembly.

Figure 14: Nut and Bolt assembly

21
3.1.2 Working Mechanism

The major requirement of this project is to develop a simple mechanism for transplanting the
paddy plants. This calls for a system of linkages which will take the paddy plants from the tray
and drop them in the paddy fields.

The principle of this linkage mechanism is based on Four Bar Mechanism which is explained
in the next section.

The size of all the links i.e. the smallest link, the medium link and the largest link and the angle
between the medium link and the horizontal link is obtained by hit and trial method.

The path generated by the largest link or the fork is marked. According to the path of the fork
the tray is adjusted on the frame. The frame picks paddy plants kept on the tray during its
forward path and drops it into the paddy field. It then returns back when the angle α changes
to α’. Figure 15 shows the working mechanism made of cardboard sheets.

Figure 15: Mechanism showing the path of the fork

22
3.1.2.1 Four Bar Mechanism

In the range of planar mechanisms, the simplest group of lower pair mechanisms is four bar
linkages. A four bar linkage comprises four bar-shaped links and four turning pairs as shown
in Figure 16.

Figure 16: Four bar mechanism

The link opposite the frame is called the coupler link, and the links which are hinged to the
frame are called side links. A link which is free to rotate through 360 degree with respect to a
second link will be said to revolve relative to the second link (not necessarily a frame). If it is
possible for all four bars to become simultaneously aligned, such a state is called a change
point.

Grashof condition :

The Grashof condition for a four-bar linkage states that if the sum of the shortest and longest
link of a planar quadrilateral linkage is less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links,
then the shortest link can rotate fully with respect to a neighboring link. In other words, the
condition is satisfied if S + L ≤ P + Q where S is the shortest link, L is the longest, and P and
Q are the other links.

4.1.2.2 Crank and Rocker Mechanism

A crank and rocker mechanism consists of 4 rigid links connected end to end creating a closed
loop. Further, one of the links, called the ground link, is in a fixed stationary position. Crank

23
and rocker mechanism can produce a large variety of paths of motion depending on the lengths
and orientation of its links. Crank and rocker mechanism is shown in figure 17.

It is for this reason that four bar mechanisms are used for a large number of applications,
particularly in manufacturing. From Machine Dynamics and Mechanisms, we know that the
type of motion produced from a crank and rocker mechanism is determined by the Grashof
conditions. Grashof conditions will determine the type of motion based on the position and
length of links in the mechanism. Determining the Grashof condition begins with the
calculation of link lengths:

L
P
S

Figure 17: Crank and Rocker Mechanism

Where:
S = length of shortest link

L = length of longest link P =

length of one remaining link q =
length of other remaining link
For a crank rocker mechanism, the above equation can be simplified to:

S+L<P+Q

Further, the final constraint to be met is that the shortest link MUST be adjacent to the ground
link.

Some common terms used in a crank rocker mechanism:

24
Ground link – Described as the distance between the two ground supports. This link is always
stationary.
Crank – The shortest link adjacent to ground link, freedom of motion allows for full 360
degree rotation.
Coupler – Connects the crank and rocker links. The coupler is referred to as largest link in
this project.
Rocker – Link adjacent to second ground link support. As the name indicates, this link is constrained
to a back and forth motion.

3.2 CAD MODELS AND SPECIFICATIONS

The shown pictures below are the 3D and 2D models with dimensions specifying which have
been made by using CAD software Catia V5.
3.2.1 FRAME
It is the basic support structure of the rice transplanter. All the bearing, shafts, linkages, tray
are mounted over the frame. It is made by 38 mm square tubes and 36 mm round tubes with 3
mm thickness. It contribiutes almost all the weight of the rice transplanter. The Figure 18
represents the 3D frame model.

Figure 18: 3D Frame model

25
The 2D formulated view as shown in Figure 18.

Figure 19: 2D Diagram of Frame

3.2.2 SHAFTS

Shafts are used for transmission of power. Two shafts are present in the model namely top
shaft and link shaft. The shafts rest on the plummer bearing.

Design Of Shaft

Design Torque
Material used: Commercially turned mild steel rod.

𝜏max: maximum shear stress

𝜏max = 0.18Sut or 0.3 Syt

Sut: ultimate strength: 412 Mpa
Syt: yield strength: 206 Mpa
From design data handbook; page 36 K BALAVEER REDDY and K MAHADEVAN

𝜏max: 74.16 Mpa /61.86Mpa

Selecting 61.8 Mpa

26
Td : 11.58X1000 = 61.8 X d
= 9.84 mm
Increasing diameter by 50% to sustain various loads
d = 9.84 x 1.5 = 14.76 mm Selecting standard value
d = 20mm

3.2.2.1 Top shaft

Top shaft is the shaft that contains the bigger sprocket or the pinion. A handle is attached with
the shaft for cranking. The 3D and 2D diagrams of the top shaft are shown in Figure 20 and 21
respectively.

Figure 20: 3D Model of Top Shaft

27
 Figure 21: 2D Diagram of Top Shaft

3.2.2.2 Link Shaft

Link shaft or rear shaft is the one which contains the smaller sprocket or the wheel. The linkage
mechanism attached with the shaft. The 3D and 2D diagrams of the link shaft are shown in
Figure 22 and 23 respectively.

Figure 22: 3D Model of Link Shaft

28
 Figure 23: 2D Diagram of Link Shaft

4.2.3 HANDLE

Handle is connect to the top shaft and used for rotating it. It is shown in figure 24. The height
of the handle from the ground is such that the person operating it not need bend which may
cause uncomforted. The 2D diagram of the handle is shown in figure 25.

Figure 24: 3D Model of the Handle

29
 Figure 25: 2D Diagram of Handle

3.2.4 LINKS

Anything serving to connect one part with another is called a link. Linkage mechanism is the
core is this project. Here there links are utilized namely the smallest link, the medium link, and
the largest link or the fork.

3.2.4.1 Small link

It is the link connected to the shaft and for this link the freedom of motion allows for full 360
rotation. It is also called crank. The 3D and 2D diagrams of the link shaft are shown in Figure
26 and 27 respectively.

Figure 26: 3D Model of Smallest Link

30
 Figure 27 : 2D Diagram of Smallest Link

3.2.4.2 Medium link

This link is adjacent to the fixed support and is pin joint with the coupler at one end. The 3D
and 2D diagrams of the link shaft are shown in Figure 28 and 29 respectively.

Figure 28 : 3D Model of Medium Link

31
 Figure 29: 2D Diagram of Medium Link

3.2.4.3 Longest link

It is treated as the coupler which connects the small link and the medium link. It is extended at
one end and has forks at its end. This link is used to pick the sampling from the tray and plant
them in the mud field. The 3D and 2D diagrams of the link shaft are shown in Figure 30 and
31 respectively.

Figure 30 : 3D Model of the Largest Link (Fork)

32
 Figure 31: 2D Model of the Largest Link (Fork)

For frame design as shown in the figure we consider that Mass of rice plants is 5kg & Mass of
frame and accessories is 20kg.

Total Mass (M) = 25kg (Assuming)

Total Force (F) = M× g ----- (1)

Where (g) is acceleration due to gravity

F = 25×9.81 N, F = 245.25 N

There are four key points where total weight

acts on links, so considering load is distributed

equally at each point i.e. each link. Force acting on

each link is given by

F1 = F/4 --------- (2)

F1= 245.25/4 = 61.31N

33
Length of link 1 is 910mm so bending moment (M)

for link 1 is given by M = F1× L1 ------- (3)

M = 61.31 × (910/1000)

M = 55.79 N-m

We are using M.S angle over MS flat because M.S angle has comparatively high strength in
twisting & bending than MS flat. So selecting M.S angle of (22 × 22 × 2) mm dimensions.

Calculating Moment of Inertia for M.S angle (Ig) Ig = ( b × d3 / 12) ---------- (4)

Here,

σ permissible = Sut / Nf σ permissible = 650/2 = 325 N/mm2

IG1 = (22 x 23)/12 = 14.67mm4

IG2 = (203 x 2)/12 = 1333.34mm4

y = C.G. of the system= (A1y1+A2y2)/( A1+ A2) -------- (5)

y = [{(22 x 2) x 2} + {(20 x 2) x 10}] / {(20 x 2) +

(22 x 2)}

y =15.76 mm

Now, IP = Moment of Inertia about parallel axis.

Ip = (IG+Ah2) ------ (6)

So, IP1 = (IG1+A1 h12) IP1 = 14.67 + {44 x (21-15.76)2} IP2 = 1222.804 mm4

IP2 = (IG2+A2 h22) IP2 = 1333.34 + {40 x (15.76 - 10)2} IP2 = 2660.44 mm4

34
So, Moment of inertia

I = IP1 + IP2 I = 1222.804 + 2660.444

I = 3883.248 mm4 We know that,

(M/I) = (σ/y) --------------- 7)

σ actual = (M x y)/ I σactual= (55.79 x 103 x 15.76) /

3883.248 σactual = 226.42 N/mm2

As, σactual<σpermissible

So, Design is safe

35
 CHAPTER 4

FABRICATION

4.1 LIST OF OPERATIONS

The following section explains various operations like welding, drilling, grinding, turning, facing,
powder coating etc. performed during the fabrication of the rice transplanter.

4.1.1 Welding

Welding is a fabrication process that joint mater usually metals or thermoplastics, by causing
fusion, which is distinct from lower temperature metal-joining techniques such as brazing and
soldering, which do not melt the base metal. In addition to melting the base metal, a filler material
is often added to the joint to form a pool of molten material (the weld pool) that cools to form a
joint that can be as strong as base material. Pressure may also be used in conjunction with heat, or
by itself, to produce a weld. Figure 4.27 shows the welding operation being performed. In addition
to melting the base metal, a filler material is typically added to the joint to form a pool of molten
material (the weld pool) that cools to form a joint that, based on weld configuration (butt, full
penetration, fillet, etc.), can be stronger than the base material (parent metal). Pressure may also
be used in conjunction with heat or by itself to produce a weld. Welding also requires a form of
shield to protect the filler metals or melted metals from being contaminated or oxidized.
Many different energy sources can be used for welding, including a gas flame (chemical), an
electric arc (electrical), a laser, an electron beam, friction, and ultrasound. While often an industrial
process, welding may be performed in many different environments, including in open air, under
water, and in outer space. Welding is a hazardous undertaking and precautions are required to
avoid burns, electric shock, vision damage, inhalation of poisonous gases and fumes, and exposure
to intense ultraviolet radiation.
Until the end of the 19th century, the only welding process was forge welding, which blacksmiths
had used for millennia to join iron and steel by heating and hammering. Arc welding and oxy-fuel
welding were among the first processes to develop late in the century, and electric resistance
welding followed soon after. Welding technology advanced quickly during the early 20th century
as world wars drove the demand for reliable and inexpensive joining methods. Following the wars,
several modern welding techniques were developed, including manual methods like shielded metal
arc welding, now one of the most popular welding methods, as well as semi-automatic and
automatic processes such as gas metal arc welding, submerged arc welding, flux-cored arc welding
and electroslag welding. Developments continued with the invention of laser beam welding,
electron beam welding, magnetic pulse welding, and friction stir welding in the latter half of the
century.

36
 Figure 32: Welding operation

The processes use a welding power supply to create and maintain an electric arc between an
electrode and the base material to melt metals at the welding point. They can use either direct
(dc) or alternating (ac) current, and consumable or non-consumable electrodes. The welding
region is sometimes protected by some type of inert or semi-inert gas, known as a shielding
gas, and filler material is sometimes used as well.

4.1.2 Drilling

Drilling is a cutting process that uses a drill bit to cut or enlarge a hole of circular crosssection
in solid materials as shown in Figure 4.28. The drill bit is a rotary cutting tool, often multipoint.
The bit is pressed against the work piece and rotated at rates from hundreds to thousands of
revolutions per minute. This forces the cutting edge against the work piece, cutting off chips
from the hole as it is drilled. Cutting fluid is commonly used to cool the drill bit, increase tool
life, increase speeds and feeds, increase the surface finish, and aid in ejecting chips. Application
of these fluids is usually done by flooding the workpiece with coolant and lubricant or by
applying a spray mist. In deciding which drill(s) to use it is important to consider the task at
hand and evaluate which drill would best accomplish the task. There are a variety of drill styles
that each serve a different purpose. The subland drill is capable of drilling more than one
diameter. The spade drill is used to drill larger hole sizes. The indexable drill is useful in
managing chips

37
 Figure 33: Drilling operation

4.1.3 Grinding

Grinding is an abrasive machining process that uses a grinding wheel as the cutting tool. Grinding
is a subset of cutting, as grinding is a true metal-cutting process. Each grain of abrasive functions
as a microscopic single-point cutting edge, and shears a tiny chip that is analogous to what would
conventionally be called a cut chip. However, among people who work in the machining fields,
the term cutting is often understood to refer to the macroscopic cutting operations, and grinding is
often mentally categorized as a separate process. This is why the terms are usually used in
contradistinction in shop-floor practice. Grinding practice is a large and diverse area of
manufacturing and toolmaking. It can produce very fine finishes and very accurate dimensions;
yet in mass production contexts it can also rough out large volumes of metal quite rapidly. It is
usually better suited to the machining of very hard materials than is "regular" machining (that is,
cutting larger chips with cutting tools such as tool bits or milling cutters), and until recent decades
it was the only practical way to machine such materials as hardened steels. Compared to "regular"
machining, it is usually better suited to taking very shallow cuts, such as reducing a shaft's diameter
by half a thousandth of an inch or 12.7 μm.
Grinding is a subset of cutting, as grinding is a true metal-cutting process. Each grain of abrasive
functions as a microscopic single-point cutting edge (although of high negative rake angle), and
shears a tiny chip that is analogous to what would conventionally be called a "cut" chip (turning,
milling, drilling, tapping, etc.)[citation needed]. However, among people who work in the machining
fields, the term cutting is often understood to refer to the macroscopic cutting operations, and
grinding is often mentally categorized as a "separate" process. This is why the terms are usually
used separately in shop-floor practice.Surface grinding uses a rotating abrasive wheel to remove

38
material, creating a flat surface. Figure 4.29 shows the surface grinding process being performed
on the frame of the rice transplanter.

Figure 34: Surface grinding operation

The surface grinder is composed of an abrasive wheel, a work holding device known as a chuck,
either electromagnetic or vacuum, and a reciprocating table. Typical work piece materials include
cast iron and steel. These two materials do not tend to clog the grinding wheel while being
processed. Other materials are aluminium, stainless steel, brass and some plastics.

4.1.4 Turning

Turning is a engineering machining process in which a cutting tool, typically a nonrotary tool bit,
describes a helical tool path by moving more or less linearly while the work piece rotates. The
tool's axes of movement may be literally a straight line, or they may be along some set of curves
or angles, but they are essentially linear (in the nonmathematical sense). Usually the term "turning"
is reserved for the generation of external surfaces by this cutting action, whereas this same essential
cutting action when applied to internal surfaces (that is, holes, of one kind or another) is called
"boring". The turning operation is carried out on the supporting shaft so that it can easily
accommodate the nut which will hold the wheel in correct position. The diameter of the shaft is
reduced to 20 mm from 25 mm. Turning can be done manually, in a traditional form of lathe,
which frequently requires continuous supervision by the operator, or by using an automated lathe
which does not. Today the most common type of such automation is computer numerical control,
better known as CNC. (CNC is also commonly used with many other types of machining besides
turning.) When turning, the workpiece (a piece of relatively rigid material such as wood, metal,
plastic, or stone) is rotated and a cutting tool is traversed along 1, 2, or 3 axes of motion to produce
precise diameters and depths. Turning can be either on the outside of the cylinder or on the inside

39
(also known as boring) to produce tubular components to various geometries. Although now quite
rare, early lathes could even be used to produce complex geometric figures, even the platonic
solids; although since the advent of CNC it has become unusual to use non-computerized toolpath
control for this purpose. The turning processes are typically carried out on a lathe, considered to
be the oldest of machine tools, and can be of different types such as straight turning, taper turning,
profiling or external grooving. Those types of turning processes can produce various shapes of
materials such as straight, conical, curved, or grooved workpieces. In general, turning uses simple
single-point cutting tools. Each group of workpiece materials has an optimum set of tool angles
that have been developed through the years. The bits of waste metal from turning operations are
known as chips (North America), or swarf (Britain). In some areas they may be known as turnings.
The tool's axes of movement may be literally a straight line, or they may be along some set of
curves or angles, but they are essentially linear (in the non mathematical sense). A component that
is subject to turning operations can be termed as a “Turned Part” or “Machined Component”.
Turning operations are carried out on a lathe machine which can be manually or CNC operated.

Figure 35: Turning operation

4.1.5 Facing

Facing in machining can be used in two different areas: facing on a milling machine and facing on a
lathe.

Facing lathe operation: Facing on the lathe uses a facing tool to cut a flat surface perpendicular to
the work piece's rotational axis. A facing tool is mounted into a tool holder that rests on the carriage

40
of the lathe. The tool will then feed perpendicularly across the part's rotational axis as it spins in
the jaws of the chuck. A user will have the option to hand feed the machine while facing, or use
the power feed option. For a smoother surface, using the power feed option is optimal due to a
constant feed rate. Facing will take the work piece down to its finished length very accurately.
Depending on how much material needs to be taken off, a machinist can choose to take roughing
or finishing cuts. [1] Factors that affect the quality and effectiveness of facing operations on the
lathe are speeds and feeds, material hardness, cutter size, and how the part is being clamped down
Face milling operation: Facing on a milling machine is the process of cutting a flat surface
perpendicular to the axes of the milling cutter. This process removes the material by rotating the
facing tool in the counterclockwise direction as the table feeds the work piece across the cutter.
Face milling can be achieved with an end mill, but is often done with a face mill, shell mill or a
fly cutter. Face milling can be done in both manual machining and CNC machining. To obtain a
smoother surface finish it is best to let the machine feed the table. Newer manual milling machines
and CNC machines will have this option, but older milling machines will not. When available, use
the machine feed instead of manually feeding the part. This will provide an optimal surface finish
due to the constant feed maintained by the mill. Hand feeding the table will allow human error into
the process. Machinists also have the option to take roughing cuts and finish cuts. Factors that
affect the quality and effectiveness of facing operations on the mill are speeds and feeds, material
hardness, cutter size, and how the part is being clamped down. Facing in the context of turning
work involves moving the cutting tool at right angles to the axis of rotation of the work piece. This
can be performed by the operation of the cross slide, If one is fitted, as distinct from the
longitudinal feed (turning). It is frequently the first operation performed in the production of the
work piece, and often the last –hence the phrase “ending up”. Figure 36 shows the facing operation.
Facing operation is done on the supporting shafts which are 20mm in diameter. The main purpose
of the facing operation is to remove metal from the end of the work piece to produce a flat surface.
It is done using lathe machine. The rear shaft of length 300 mm is obtained from a shaft of longer
length.

Figure 36 : Facing operation

41
4.1.6 Finishing process

Painting is the most common surface treatment for steel. There are, however, entire libraries of
information about the surface treatment of steel, and the hundreds of different paints and paint pre-
treatments, and the alternatives including galvanizing, electroplating, powder coating, nitriding,
flame spraying, electro coating, etc.
Modern specifications usually comprise a sequential coating application of paints or alternatively
paints applied over metal coatings to form a „duplex‟ coating system. The protective paint systems
usually consist of primer, undercoats and finish coats. Each coating „layer‟ in any protective
system has a specific function, and the different types are applied in a particular sequence of primer
followed by intermediate / build coats in the shop, and finally the finish or top coat either in the
shop or on site.

4.1.6.1 Powder coating

Powder coating is a type of coating that is applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. The main
difference between a conventional liquid paint and a powder coating is that the powder coating
does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. The
coating is typically applied electrostatic ally and is then cured under heat to allow it to flow and
form a "skin". The powder may be thermoplastic or a thermo set polymer. Figure 37 shows powder
coating operation being performed. Powder coating is mainly used for coating of metals such as
house hold appliances, aluminum extrusions, automobile and bicycle parts etc. It is usually used
to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint. The most common way of applying
the powder coating to metal objects is to spray the powder using an electrostatic gun, or corona
gun. The gun imparts a negative charge to the powder, which is then sprayed towards the grounded
object by mechanical or compressed air spraying and then accelerated toward the workpiece by
the powerful electrostatic charge. There is a wide variety of spray nozzles available for use in
electrostatic coating. The type of nozzle used will depend on the shape of the workpiece to be
painted and the consistency of the paint. The object is then heated, and the powder melts into a
uniform film, and is then cooled to form a hard coating. It is also common to heat the metal first
and then spray the powder onto the hot substrate. Preheating can help to achieve a more uniform
finish but can also create other problems, such as runs caused by excess powder. See the article
"Fusion Bonded Epoxy Coatings"
Another type of gun is called a tribo gun, which charges the powder by (triboelectric) friction. In
this case, the powder picks up a positive charge while rubbing along the wall of a Teflon tube
inside the barrel of the gun. These charged powder particles then adhere to the grounded substrate.
Using a tribo gun requires a different formulation of powder than the more common corona guns.
Tribo guns are not subject to some of the problems associated with corona guns, however, such as
back ionization and the Faraday cage effect. Powder can also be applied using specifically adapted
electrostatic discs. Another method of applying powder coating, named as the fluidized bed
method, is by heating the substrate and then dipping it into an aerated, powder-filled bed. The
powder sticks and melts to the hot object. Further heating is usually required to finish curing the

42
coating. This method is generally used when the desired thickness of coating is to exceed 300
micrometres. This is how most dishwasher racks are coated.

Figure 37 : Powder Coating operation

4.2 FABRICATION STAGES

4.2.1 Marking and cutting

The process of actual fabrication starts with marking of designed dimension. The dimension
are marked either using a punch or a scribe. At convenient places use of chalks can prove
handy. After marking suitable marks on 36mm diameter steel tubes and 38mm side square
tubes are cut by using metal cutter. Figure 4.33 shows metal cutting for frame formation. The
stress generated by a cutting implement is directly proportional to the force with which it is
applied, and inversely proportional to the area of contact.[1] Hence, the smaller the area (i.e.,
the sharper the cutting implement), the less force is needed to cut something. It is generally
seen that cutting edges are thinner for cutting soft materials and thicker for harder materials.
This progression is seen from kitchen knife, to cleaver, to axe, and is a balance between the
easy cutting action of a thin blade vs strength and edge durability of a thicker blade.

43
 Figure 38 : Round tubes being cut by a Metal Cutter

4.2.2 Frame formation

The cut pieces of Mild steel are welded by using arc welding method to form the frame.
Figure 39 shows frame in its initial stages of fabrication.

Figure 39 : Frame in its initial stages

44
4.2.3 Mounting of bearing and shaft

The two shafts namely link shaft and top shaft are turned to the calculated dimension. Holes
are drilled on supports for mounting the bearing. The bearings are fastened by using Nuts and
Bolts. Once the bearings are mounted the shaft is placed between the bearings and locked.
Figure 40 shows the assembly of shaft and bearing which is mounted on the frame. A handle
is attached with the shaft for cranking.

Figure 40 : Mounting of Bearings and Shaft

4.2.4 Alignment of Sprockets and chains

Proper alignment of both the sprockets is very important and critical for the movement of shafts
by the use of handle. Figure 41 shows the rice transplanter after Alignment of Sprockets and
chains.

45
 Figure 41 : Chain put over the sprockets after alignment

For this the upper sprockets is mounted at a distance halfway between the shafts. A flange is
used to block the sprocket and it is welded on the other side. The flange is locked by bolt;
similarly the lower sprocket is aligned. After aligning both in a straight line, chain is placed
over the teeth of the sprocket and made in a loop for transmission.

4.2.5 Assembling of linkage

All the three links are assembled with the shaft for the mechanism to work. One end of the
medium link is fixed and the other is pin joint with the back and of the fork. Similarly one end
of the smaller link is fixed with the shaft and the other is pin joint with the fork. Figure
42 and Figure 43 shows the linkage assembly.

46
 Figure 42 : Linkage Assembly

Figure 43 : Enlarged view of Linkage Assembly

4.3 Finishing and powder coating

Before powder coating the model all the joints are thoroughly welded and grinded for surface
finish. The detachable parts are removed and painted and the frame along with tray and the
base are subjected powder coating for aesthetic properties. Figure 44 shows the rice tansplanter
after applying powder coat.

47
 Figure 44 : Rice Transplanter after assembly

4.4 COST ESTIMATION

A cost estimation or approximation of cost is required at the end of any study. It can be used
for comparison with other available products. The following table gives the list of all the
materials used in the fabrication of rice transplantation along with their cost.

SL NO DESCRIPTION QUANTITY COST(RS)

1 SQUARE TUBE ( 38X38 mm ) 3.2 m 480
2 SQUARE TUBE ( 28X28 mm ) 1.5 m 225
3 ROUND TUBE ( Diameter 36 mm ) 4m 600
4 SHEET METAL 1m X 1m 350
5 PLUMMER BEARING 4 1440
6 SHAFTS 2 250
7 SPROCKETS 2 280
8 CHAIN 2.7 m 150
9 HANDLE 1 75

48
10 TROLLEY WHEEL 4 280
11 NUTS AND BOLTS 24 130
12 WASHER 20 40
13 FABRICATION 2500
14 OVERHEADS 500
TOTAL 7,300

49
 CHAPTER 5

TESTING AND ANALYSIS

TESTING

Following parameters were measured during the field operation

a) Paddling index:-

It is the ratio between volume of settled soil and total volume of sample and is given by the
formula (Appendix B)

Paddling Index = Vs/ Vt X 100

Whereas

Vs = volume of settled soil, and

Vt = total volume of sample.

For determining of the puddling index the sample of soil -water suspension shall be taken by
immersing a glass tube to a depth of about 100 mm. the samples shall be taken from a number
of points and shall be calculated in measuring cylinders. These shall be kept undisturbed for
24 hours, to allow the soil to settle. The volume of settled soil shall be noted for computing the
puddling index by the above formula.

(a) Theoretical Field Capacity

Theoretical field capacity, ha/h= 𝑆×𝑊 10000
Whereas,
S = speed of travel, kmph; and
W = rated width of implement, m
(b)Effective Field Capacity
It is the actual average rate of coverage by the machine. Effective field capacity is expressed by
the formula:
Effective field capacity= 𝑆×𝑊 /10000× 𝐸𝑓

50
 Whereas,
S = speed of travel, kmph;
W =rated width of implement m; and
𝐸𝑓 =field efficiency, %.
(c)Field efficiency
It is the ratio of effective field capacity to the theoretical field capacity and is expressed in
percent.
Field efficiency, % = 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝑐𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 /𝑡ℎ 𝑒𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝑐𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑋 100
(d)Missing index
The transplanting faults are measured to number rows planting per stroke and to the total number
of seedling planted per ten strokes.
Whereas,
S = speed of travel, kmph; and
W = rated width of implement

51
 CHAPTER - 6

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A survey was conducted among the paddy farmers in the study area to understand the
existing methods of preparing land for puddling, raising nursery and transplanting. In
order to popularise the transplanter the performance of a 8 row self propelled riding type
rice transplanter (Yanmar VP8D) along with automatic nursery raising seeding device
were studied under different puddling conditions and compared with nursery raised and
transplanted manually. The results pertain to soil parameters, machine parameters, plant
parameters and crop yield were tabulated and discussed. The best combination was tried
in the farmer‟s field at different locations and seasons for different paddy varieties. All
the field trials were compared with manual transplantation and observed the variations
of paddy output. The results were summarized and discussed in this chapter.

6.1. Selection of suitable puddling equipment for adoption of rice transplanter

An 8 row self propelled riding type rice transplanter (Yanmar VP8D) was selected based
on its merits when compared with other types of rice transplanters available in Andhra
Pradesh, India. It is necessary to develop favourable puddling conditions for adoption of
the rice transplanter. In order to achieve the desirable puddling condition, four types of
puddling equipments selected based on farmers usage in the study area. A field
experiment was conducted in a farmer‟s field by using randomized block design with
five treatments and four replications. The seedlings were raised by using automatic
nursery raising seeding device. The treatment details are given below.
In the field experiment, soil physical properties, transplanting faults, machine and crop
parameters were observed and the results were statistically analyzed by using ANOVA
AgRes software.

Treatments Type of puddling equipment

T1 Tilled + puddled by animal drawn puddler + transplanted by

machine

T2 Tilled + puddled by power tiller + transplanted by machine

T3 Tilled + puddled by tractor with double cage wheels hitched with

cultivator + transplanted by machine

52
 T4 Tilled + puddled by tractor with single cage wheels hitched with
rotavator + transplanted by machine

T5 Tilled + puddled by tractor with double cage wheels hitched with

cultivator +transplanted by manually.

6.1.1. Effect of puddling treatments on physical properties of soil

Puddling has significant effect on soil physical properties. The effects of puddling are
quantified through measurement of soil bulk density, infiltration rate and puddling index.
These attributes were measured during the course of investigation and the results obtained for
the same are discussed in this section. The transplanted seedlings establishment was
significantly influenced by different puddling treatments on soil bulk density at different
depths. The bulk density of soil under different types of puddling treatments was determined
at different depths varying from 0 to 400 mm at 2 DAT and 120 DAT. This range of depth
was further categorized into 0-100 mm, 100-200 mm, 200-300 mm and 300-400 mm depths.

6.1.1.1 .Effect of different puddling treatments on soil bulk density at 2 DAT

Results pertaining to average soil bulk density measured at 0-100 mm, 100-200 mm, 200-
300 mm and 300-400 mm depths under different puddling treatments at 2 DAT and 120 DAT
are presented in tables-4.4 & 4.5.
Table -1 . Effect of different puddling treatments on soil bulk densityatdifferent depths at 2 DAT
Treatments Soil bulk density, g/cc

Up to 100-200 200-300 300-400

100 mm mm mm mm

T1 1.44 1.47 1.50 1.60

T2 1.47 1.52 1.57 1.74
T3 1.46 1.51 1.55 1.69
T4 1.50 1.53 1.60 1.75
T5 1.47 1.52 1.56 1.70
SED 0.0404 0.0100 0.0126 0.0129
CD (0.05) 0.088 0.0218 0.0276 0.0281
CD(0.01) 0.1233 0.0305 0.0386 0.0394

53
At 2 DAT, the results showed that the average soil bulk density was found higher in T4
as 1.50, 1.53, 1.60 and 1.75 g/cc in all the samples collected from depths of up to 100
mm, 100-200 mm, 200-300 mm and 300-400 mm respectively when compared with
other treatments. It was observed that, there is an increase in soil bulk density with
increase in depth for each treatment. The increasing trend of soil bulk density was
obtained with respect to depth due to reduction in moisture content causes the shrinkage
of soil leading to compaction. Next to T4, higher values of soil bulk density were found
in T2 and lower values found in T1 in all the observations made at different depths. This
could be due to poor soil disintegration by using animal drawn puddler (T1).

Table - 2. Effect of different Puddling treatments on soil bulk density a different depths at 120 DAT
Soil bulk density, g/cc
Treatments Up to 100-
200-300mm 300-400mm
100 mm 200mm
T1 1.45 1.48 1.55 1.77
T2 1.49 1.54 1.65 1.82
T3 1.53 1.52 1.60 1.79
T4 1.53 1.54 1.71 1.85
T5 1.50 1.53 1.61 1.80
SED 0.0187 0.0183 0.0112 0.0100
CD(0.05) 0.0407 0.0400 0.0244 0.0218
CD(0.01) 0.0570 0.0560 0.0342 0.0305

Further, it was observed that the soil bulk density value found increasing with the
increase in depth. The reason for obtaining higher soil bulk density in well puddled soil
(T4 ) is due to the settlement of finer particles which resulted from breakage of soil
aggregates into the pore spaces of soil mass. Similar observations were made by
Chaudhary and Varshney, (2008). Hence T4 is found best for achieving desirable soil
bulk density.

6.1.1.2. Effect of different puddling treatments on infiltration rate

Infiltration rate was observed from 2 DAT to 120 DAT with an interval of 30 days. The
average values of Infiltration rate were found significant for the different puddling
treatments at different days after transplanting and the values are presented in table -
4.6, which showed that the infiltration rate at T4 was observed as 7.6, 6.2, 5.0, 4.0 and
5.8 mm/h recorded at 2 DAT, 30 DAT, 60 DAT, 90 DAT and 120 DAT respectively.

54
 Table - 3. Effect of different puddling treatments on infiltration rate

Treatments Infiltration Rate (IR), mm/h

2 DAT 30DAT 60DAT 90DAT 120DAT

T1 9.6 7.5 6.8 6.0 8.0

T2 8.3 6.5 5.8 5.0 6.0

T3 8.5 7.5 6.5 5.4 7.8

T4 7.6 6.2 5.0 4.0 5.8

T5 9.0 8.0 7.1 6.2 8.0

SED 0.2761 0.1803 0.0742 0.1204 0.1080

CD(0.05) 0.6015 0.3928 0.1616 0.2624 0.2353

The results clearly indicate that infiltration rate was found lesser in T4 when compared
to other treatments because of well puddled soil condition achieved in T4. Whereas,
higher infiltration rate was recorded in T1, where the field was prepared by bullock
drawn puddler. Similar results were obtained by Avatar Singh and Jagmour Kour,
(2012). At higher level of puddling, viscosity of the fluid of puddled soil increases.
Hence, water moves at very slow rate which enhances the settlement of fine particles
and plugs the pore space with ultimate reduction in infiltration. From the observations
infiltration rate was found higher for less puddled conditions than that of the well
puddled conditions. Similar observations were made by De Dutta and Karim, (1974) and
Hobbs et. al. (2002).
6.1.1.3. Effect of different puddling treatments on puddling index

The average values of puddling index and time required for puddling under different
puddling treatments are presented in table - 4.

55
 Table -4 . Effect of different puddling treatments on puddling index

Puddling index (PI), Time required for

Treatments
(%) puddling, (h)
T1 37 1.27
T2 60 0.44
T3 56 0.20
T4 62 0.17
T5 57 0.20
SED 0.5110 0.0124
CD(0.05) 1.1134 0.0271
CD(0.01) 1.5609 0.0380

From the table it is observed that the average puddling index was recorded from 37% to
62%, which found significant variation among the treatments from T1 to T5. The highest
puddling index was recorded in T4 (62%) which indicated the desirable puddling
condition.

Further, higher PI would help to reduce percolation rate, water requirement and increase
in nutrient uptake. Hence, the T4 registered higher PI followed by the T2(60%), T5(57%),
T3(56%) & T1(37%). The least value of PI found in T1 is due to less compaction of the
soil achieved by using bullock drawn puddler.

Also from the table - 4.7, it is noticed that the average time required to complete
puddling operation was recorded from 0.17 h to 1.27 h. Which found significant
variation among the treatments from T1 to T5. The time required to complete puddling
operation for one acre of land was observed less in T4 (1.34 h) when compared to T3
(1.58 h), T5 (1.58 h), T2 (3.5 h) and T1 (10 h). Hence, T4 registered favourable puddling
condition to adopt rice transplanter when compared to other treatments.

6.1.2. Effect of different puddling treatments on machine parameters

The machine parameters of the rice transplanter was found variation in different puddled
conditions. In order to quantify the variations, total time required, fuel consumed, field
efficiency and machine index were recorded and presented in table - 4.9.

56
 Table-5. Effect of different puddling treatments on machine parameters
Treatments Machine parameters
Time Fuel Field Machine
requirement, consumption, efficiency, % index, %
h/ha l/ha

T1 3.33 10.80 43.5 78.95

T2 2.56 8.87 55.5 82.42
T3 3.33 10.80 43.1 78.95
T4 2.56 8.87 57.2 82.42
T5 210.25 0 - -
SED 0.0284 0.0300 0.3987 0
CD(0.05) 0.0619 0.0655 0.8686 0
CD(0.01) 0.0868 0.0918 1.2178 0

6.1.2.1. Time Requirement

The time required for completing the transplantation includes its operational time along
with turning, and loading. The time requirement found in T1 and T3 were same (3.33
ha/h) where as 2.56 ha/h was the time taken to complete transplanting in T2 and T4.
However, the values for all the treatments are found significantly different among the
treatments. Around 210.25 h required to transplant one hectare of land by manually. The
percentage of time saving by the rice transplanter over the manual is in the range of
98.41 to 98.78.

6.1.2.2. Fuel Consumption

The average fuel consumed by the rice transplanter under different puddling conditions
is presented in table-4.9. Higher fuel consumption rate (10.80 l/ha) was found in T1 as
well as T3 where as in T2 and T4 the fuel consumption rate was found minimum (8.87
l/ha) due to the favourable puddling conditions. The analysis of variance indicated that
T2 and T4 are found best performing treatments in comparatively with T1 and T3.
However, the values of T1, T3 and T2, T4 are found significantly different.

57
6.1.2.3. Field Efficiency
The time taken by the rice transplanter for transplanting of seedlings including turning,
loading and other losses were recorded during each treatment. Field efficiency was
calculated and the values are presented in table - 4.9. It indicated that there was a
significant difference in field efficiency among the treatments of T1, T2, T3 and T4 and
the values varied from 43.1 to 57.2 percent. On an average, field efficiency was found
maximum in T4 (57.2%) and minimum in T3 (43.1%). This variation was occurred due
to difference in puddling conditions.

6.1.2.4. Machine Index

The machine index of rice transplanter was calculated for each of the treatments and
results obtained are presented in table - 4.9. The machine index was found maximum in
T2 and T4 (82.42 %) and considered as best performing treatments as compared to T1
and T3 (78.95%). The analysis of variance revealed that there is a significant difference
in machine index, which clearly pointed out that the positive effects of puddling
treatments on machine performance.
However among T2 and T4, T4 was considered best for preparing favourable puddling
conditions to adopt rice transplanter, because time required for puddling was found
minimum ( 0.17h ) when compared with T2 ( 0.44 h) for a field size of 26 m x
9.5 m (Table.4.7).

6.1.3. Effect of different puddling treatments on agronomical parameters

Agronomical parameters such as average depth of transplanting, hill spacing, number of

plants per hill and number of hills per sq. m were measured and the values are presented
in table - 4.10 to assess the variations due to different puddling conditions. The results
obtained from the measurement of these parameters are also discussed in this section.
The different views of transplanting operation by 8 row self propelled riding type rice
transplanter and manual transplanting are depicted in plates - 4.1 to 4.3.
Table - 6. Effect of different puddling treatments on agronomical parameters

Agronomical parameters

Treatments Depth of Hill spacing, No. of plants No. of hills/

transplanting, cm cm / hill sq.m

T1 4.0 18 4.9 24

58
T2 5.2 18 4.4 24

T3 5.0 18 4.9 24

T4 5.0 18 4.2 24

T5 9 23 7.4 31

SED 0.2930 2.3875 0.2898 0.6831

CD(0.05) 0.6383 5.2019 0.6315 1.4884

CD(0.01) 0.8949 7.2930 0.8853 2.0867

Figure 45: A back view of transplanting operation

59
 Figure 46: A back view of transplanting operation by 8 row self propelled riding type Rice
transplanter Bottom

6.1.3.1. Depth of transplanting

Depth of transplanting varies with the softness and texture of soil achieved by different
puddling operations. Among the treatments, seedlings were transplanted by manual in the field
at more depth (9 cm) which are more than the recommended transplanting depth (5 cm). This
would lead to poor tillers emergence after keeping water stand in the field conditions. Whereas
seedlings were transplanted at minimum depth (4 cm) found in T1. This could be due to the
reason for poor puddle conditions. Further it may lead to higher percentage of floating as well
as buried hills occurrence after irrigating the field. From the table - 4.10, it is found that depth
of transplanting was in the range of 5.1 + 0.1 cm in treatments viz., T2, T3 and T4 , which is the
recommended depth for planting seedlings in the field.

6.1.3.2. Hills spacing

From table-4.10, it is evident that there is no significant difference among all the treatments. As
there is provision for adjustment of hill spacing in the rice planter, 18 cm was fixed as hill
spacing which found desirable by the farmers for the variety tested in field conditions whereas
the average maximum hill spacing (23 cm) was recorded in manually transplanted field (T5).

60
6.1.3.3. No. of plants per hill

The average number of plants per hill for different puddling treatments are presented in table-
4.10 had significantly varied from 4.2 to 7.4. Among the treatments, T2 and T4 are found best,
where minimum plants per hill (4.3 + 0.1) was recorded when compared with other treatments.

6.1.3.4. Number of hills per sq.m

From table - 4.10, there is no difference between the treatments of T1, T2, T3 & T4 since the value
was recorded as 24 hills per sq.m . However 31 hills per sq.m was found in T5. This could be due
to manual plantation. Further, the presence of more hills normally arrest the growth rate of plants
as well as affect the crop yield also.

6.2. Grain Yield

The average grain yield obtained for different treatments are presented in table-4.12. There was
significant difference found in grain yield among the treatments. The highest grain yield was
obtained in T4 (7.35 t/ha) followed by T2 (7.08 t/ha), T3 (6.73 t/ha), T1 (6.10 t/ha) and T5 (5.85
t/ha). The reason for getting higher yield in T4 was due to the achievement of good puddle
conditions which resulted in developing more number of panicles (569 / m2) and more number of
grains per panicle (253). Yield attributes are better under good puddle soil conditions which had
significant effect on rice cultivation. The results were confirmed by Prasad et. al. (2001) and
Jaiswal & Singh, (2001). The reason attributed to the variation in grain yield is due to the difference
in the puddled field conditions. Similar results were reported by Tripathi et. al. (2004) and Singh
et. al. (2005). Around 25.6 percent increase in yield was obtained in T4 over manual transplanting
(T5).

6.3. Straw yield

The average straw yield showed that it varied from 7.20 to 9.03 t/ha for different puddling
treatments. The average straw yield was found maximum in T4 (9.03 t/ha) followed by T2 (8.83
t/ha), T3 (8.41 t/ha), T1 (7.56 t/ha) and T5 (7.20 t/ha). The results indicated that different puddle
conditions affect the plant height significantly. Higher straw yield obtained in T4 was due to the
higher panicle length (253 mm) and higher plant height (1039.7 mm) obtained in good puddle
conditions when compared with other treatments.

4.3.7. Economic analysis of rice transplanter under different puddling conditions The
comparative economic analysis of different puddling treatments under rice crop system has been
worked out to identify a suitable puddling equipment for adoption of rice transplanter that would
suit to farmers and to arrive at a decision for providing policy support for accelerating the

61
technology for its wide scale adoption. Based on the results, it was observed that T4 got best results
over the prevailing local methods of puddling with machine/manual transplantation. The cost of
cultivation and income for raising rice crop under different puddling treatments is presented in
table – 7 and the estimated values of input and output cost for each treatment are given in appendix
no. 16.1 to 16.5.
Table - 7. Economic analysis of rice transplanter under different puddling conditions

Input Output cost, (Rs/ha) Net

Benefitcost
Treatments cost, income,
ratio
(Rs/ ha) Grain Straw Total (Rs/ha)

T1 32,434 57,950 15,120 73,070 40,636 1.25

T2 31,796 67,260 17,660 84,920 53,124 1.67
T3 31,365 63,935 16,820 80,755 49,390 1.57
T4 31,172 69,825 18,060 87,885 56,713 1.82
T5 35,485 55,575 14,400 69,975 34,490 0.97

6.4.1. Input Cost

The results showed that cost of cultivation or input cost was found higher in manual
transplantation T5 (Rs. 35,485/ha) and lower in T4 (Rs. 31,172/ha).

T4, the input cost was found lower in T1 (Rs.32,434/ha), followed by T2 (Rs. 31,796/ha) &
T3 (Rs. 31,365/ha). The lower input cost found in T4 was due to the reduction in seed and
manure cost and minimum labour requirement for nursery management.

6.4.2. Output cost

The output cost or income obtained per hectare under different puddling treatments are
presented in table - 4.13. Total output cost was recorded maximum in T4 (Rs. 87,885/ha) due
to higher grain and straw yields. The minimum value per hectare was recorded in treatment
T5 (Rs. 69,975).

6.4.3. Benefit-Cost ratio

The results pertaining to net return in rupees per rupee invested for raising rice crop under
different puddling conditions are presented in table - 4.13. The results showed that benefit
cost ratio was found maximum of 1.82 in T4 and minimum in T5 ( 0.97). The benefit cost
ratio was 1.67 in T2 which was found maximum next to T4.

62
 CHAPTER 7
CONCLUSION

Rice paddy transplanter is highly recommended for the local farmers of though beforehand the
farmers need to be educated regarding its proper use since mechanized transplanter requires mat
– type nursery.
1. Since the farm land is of the average size in the area thus a mechanized paddy transplanter
would highly aid in the rice transplantation.
2. It would also decrease the high dependence of farmers upon laborers for transplantation.
3. The transplanter machine can be easily coupled to a weed remover mechanism which could
further help farmers in the weeding process of paddy plantation.
The paddy seedling transplanting machine worked satisfactorily. But, there were some
improvements to be done before introducing to the farmers. Based on the performance some
modifications can be made. The machine is driven by man power but engine can be coupled to
enhance the performances. Machine can be developed to transplant several rows simultaneously.
Weight of the machine should be reduced by removing sprocket, chains and adding small gears.
The performance of rice transplanter with the simplified mechanism is better when compared to
the manual transplanting. The machine is capable of transplanting saplings more than double as
compared to manual transplanting. The row to row distance between the saplings was also
maintained uniform. The planting depth of each sapling is nearly 5 cm.
Transplanting rate with hand held transplanter was found to be 12 seedlings/min against 5
seedlings/min in case of manual transplanting for plastic mulch bed. The field capacity was
calculated as 0.003 ha/h and 0.016 for manual transplanting plastic mulch beds (MPMB), by hand
held transplanter on plastic mulch beds (TPMB). Moreover, cost of operation in was found to be
9218 and 1753 Rs/ha. The time saving over manual transplanting is 80.96%. Weight of transplanter
is 2.4 kg and cost Rs. 500/-. It is simple, light weight, low cost and found suitable for transplanting
of vegetable seedlings
Rice paddy transplanter is highly recommended for the local farmers of though beforehand the
farmers need to be educated regarding its proper use since mechanized transplanter requires mat –
type nursery. Since the farm land is of the average size in the area thus a mechanized paddy
transplanter would highly aid in the rice transplantation. It would also decrease the high
dependence of farmers upon laborers for transplantation. The transplanter machine can be easily
coupled to a weed remover mechanism which could further help farmers in the weeding process
of paddy plantation.
The modeling and simulation of the rice seeding machine performed on the SOLIDWORKS. The
Rice seeding machine manufactured as per modeling and work satisfactorily. It will help the farmer

63
for easy seeding of the rice and at the same time it will reduce the time of seeding with effective
cost cutting to help work in budget. The high energy consumption, heavy pollution and high cost
condition caused by using diesel and gasoline as the energy source have been improved. The low
efficiency condition caused by using man power or animal power as the traction source has also
been improved. It accords with the requirement of the ecological agriculture development. It would
also help in decreasing the over dependence of farmers upon labour for transplantation.
Transplanter helps to acquire lesser cost of production with higher yield and production moreover
the quality of produced rice is also good.
Design and development of low cost and efficient farm implement plays a vital role in sustaining
the farmers holding small fields due to the sparse availability of laborers. Several designs though
available in the market cannot be afforded by these farmers due to high initial investment and
maintenance. Hence a simple and cost effective rice planter is the most promising in these
circumstances. Nevertheless, there are few limitations with these transplanters as for the planting
mechanism concerned. Due to the circular trajectory of the planter, the seedlings are planted in an
inclined direction which is susceptible for extrication and improper growth. Hence, a new planter
design is proposed in this work which overcomes this problem. With the proposed design,
seedlings are planted vertically to the ground at sufficient depth by making the planter to travel in
the straight path.
Transplanting of seedling at the optimal age (24-30days) is possible constant spacing and optimum
plant density can be maintained so that its output can be increased. It reduces the stress, drudgery
and health risk of farm labours .By using this machine the problem of shortage of labours can be
overcome. As it is independent of engine, this is affordable to poor farmers also.

64
 CHAPTER 8
FUTURE SCOPE
• The machine has to pull to operate. Ergonomically it is better to push weight rather than to
pull. So it is better to turn the handle and the power supplying mechanism to push the machine
instead of pulling it.

• Use of aluminium and alloy for construction will help to reduce the weight of the machine.

• The rice transplanter is used to plant two rows simultaneously. Similarly transplanters with 4
or 6 rows can be developed.

• The process can be mechanised by using a motor instead of manual cranking.

• Solar panels can be incorporated to run the motors.

• Instead of sprockets, gears sets can be used for better performance.

• The chain length can be reduced by introducing an intermediate gear set between the two
shafts.

65
REFRENCES

[1] Baldev Raj Kamboj, Dharam Bir Yadav, Ashok Yadav, Narender Kumar Goel, Gurjeet Gill,
Ram K. Malik, Bhagirath Singh Chauhan, “Mechanized Transplanting of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
in Nonpuddled and No-Till Conditions in the Rice-Wheat Cropping System in Haryana, India”,
American Journal of Plant Sciences, 2013, 4, pp 2409-2413

[2] S. Pradhan and S.K. Mohanty, “Ergo- Economical Analysis of Different Paddy Transplanting
Operations in Eastern India”, IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science , 2014, Volume
6,pp 23-28

[3] RajvirYadav, Mital Patel, S.P. Shukla and S. Pund, “Ergonomic evaluation of manually
operated six-row paddy transplanter, International Agricultural Engineering Journal”, 200716(3-
4), pp 147-157.

[4] A.K. Goel, D. Behera and S. Swain, “Effect of Sedimentation Period on Performance of Rice
Transplanter”, Agricultural Engineering International the CIGR E journal, 2008 Vol. X.,
Manuscript PM 07034.

[5] Rampuram Jayapa lreddy & Dr. N. Sandhya Shenoy, a comparative economic analysis of
Traditional and System of Rice Intensification (SRI) rice cultivation practices in Mahabubnagar
district of Andhra Pradesh, International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, Volume
3, ISSN 225031532013 pp 2147 -2151.

[6] A.Dixit, R Khurana, J. Singh, G. Singh, Agric. Rev., 28 (2007) 262-269.

[7] S.V. Balbhudhe, D. H. Baghele, D.N. Shirke, M.C. Gaikwad, P.S. Bobde, U.G. Bisen, H.M.
Bansod, Int. J. Ana. Exp. FEA, 3 (2016) Goel A C. and Verma K S. 2000. Comparative study of
directly seeding and transplanted rice. Indian J. Agril. Research, 34(3): 194-196.

66
[8]. Obulamma U and Reddy R. 2002. Effect of spacing and seedling number on growth and yield
of hybrid rice. Journal of Research, ANGRAU, 30(1): 76-78.

[9] Awadhwal, N. K. 1988. Development of an animal drawn seed meteringdevice/. Indian

J.Agric.Sci., 58(2) : 87 – 90

[10] Awadhwal, N. K., Shetty , S.V.R., Niangado, o. and Traore, M.B. 1990b.Development and
testing of a donkey { drawn cultivator cum seeder.Agric. Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Lat.
Amer.

[11]. Y Lan, M F Kocher and J A Smith. Opto electronic Sensor Systemfor Laboratory
Measurement of Planter Seed Spacing with Small Seeds. In Journal of Agricultural Engineering
Research, vol 72, 1999, p 119.

[12]. J W Panning, M F Kocher, J A Smith and S D Kachman. Laboratory andField Testing of

Seed Spacing Uniformity for Sugarbeet Planters. in AppliedEngineering in Agriculture, vol 16, no
1, 2000, p 7.

[13]. M U Singh. Design, Developed and Evaluation of a Manual Drawn Multi crop Drum Seeder
for Dryland. in M Tech Thesis, Agricultural and FoodEngineering Department , Indian Institute of
Technology, Kharagpur, 2000.

[14]. Pankaj kumar singh Int, Journal of Engineering Research and Application ISSN:2248-9622,
Vol. 7, Issue 6, (Part-4) June 2017

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 PLAGIARISM SCAN REPORT

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To develop a Mechanism for transplanting crop seedling using the Method of Four Bar Mechanism. To reduce the man power
and increase the crop production and reduce the cost. It is an agribot which do not need any kind of fuel or electricity so it
easily affordable by any farmer and has no fixed boundaries to work on. This Model consists of two arcs of length 35 CM with
one end angled at 120 degree and it is having a fork shape structure on that particular end. When Machine is pulled then by
the wheel Motion. Ciockwise Motion is also providaed in input link and as a result that link transverse the Motion to the output
link which as a result pick the crop plant and implant in the wat mud. Biggest advantage of our project is that it is totally
Manually and has starting budget of Rs 6000 only which is easily affordabie of the farmers. It helps to automate slow repetitive
and dull tasks for farmers, allowing them to focus More on improving overall production yields.Seeding by this crop
transplanter saves too Much efforts of human being. Class of people who do not capable to buy expensive agribot can easily
uses this kind of machines. Such techniques help to enhance the crop production and reduce human etforts

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2. The robot automates slow, repetitive and dull tasks for farmers, allowing them to focus more on improving
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oea3jxLbEFM