Development and evaluation of Battery assisted Eweeder for narrow row crops
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Date
2023
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Punjab Agricultural University
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the development and performance assessment of an electric weeder tailored for efficient agricultural weed management. The primary focus of the research was to develop and evaluate an electric weeder to be used in narrow row crops. The weeder's innovative design encompassed features enabling weed control in narrow row crops, adjustable rotor speeds, and adjustable depth of weeding blade. The weeding mechanism of weeder was powered using a 1000W 48V BLDC motor, traction was provided using a hub motor of 250W and 48V. A li-ion battery of 25Ah 48V was used as a energy source for both the motors. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the weeder's operational capabilities across a diverse range of parameters. The study revealed substantial correlations between rotor speed, forward speed, and moisture content with both weeding efficiency and plant damage. An upward trend in weeding efficiency was consistently observed with higher rotor and forward speeds, highlighting the potential benefits of increased operational intensity. In contrast, plant damage demonstrated an escalating trend at elevated rotor and forward speeds. Plant damage also increased with decrease in moisture content. Battery performance was also comprehensively evaluated, with discharging and charging times serving as critical operational metrics. Optimal parameters for maximum weeding efficiency and minimal plant damage were identified as a forward speed of 3kmph, rotor speed of 300 rpm, and a moisture content of 18%. These parameters not only contributed to substantial labor savings of 72.9% but also resulted in noteworthy cost reductions of 50.7%. The developed electric weeder exhibits potential for weed management in narrow row crops, offering enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The study's comprehensive insights contribute significantly to the field of agricultural mechanization. through alternate sources of power on the farm.
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Gurkanwal Singh (2023). Development and evaluation of Battery assisted Eweeder for narrow row crops (Unpublished M.Tech. thesis). Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India.