SMART REVERSIBLE PLOW CONCEPT, DESIGN AND PROTOTYPE

This paper is aimed to evidence relevant aspects on the concept and design of an innovative smart multiple furrows reversible plow. Innovation in plow concept is ensured by the command and control system for measuring air / soil temperature and soil humidity in-situ, so that based on these data the depth the mouldboard should dig the furrows to is automatically set. Another innovative aspect is that assisted by three laser sensors, the furrow depth and turned over soil height are also determined in-situ. Aspects of prototyping the plow are also evidenced, specially focusing on manufacturing some of its mechanical components by planning and optimization the production process. Testing the prototype for in-situ measuring of furrow depth and the results obtained are also evidenced. This research has as background a Technology Transfer Contract, so that the most important consequence of results stands in smart reversible plow further commercialization by SME partner.