Selection Seeder with a Robotic Cassette Loading Device Mounted on Self-Propelled Chassis

Cassette-type selection seeders equipped with portion cone-type sowing devices are typically used in sowing technology at the second stage of selection; variety testing; and primary seed production of cereals; grain legumes; and other crops. ( Research purpose) To review existing selection seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis used at the second stage of operations with cassette loading devices and to propose an improved selection seeder integrating robotic automation for the precise feeding of cereal; grain legume; and other crop seeds to the batch sowing mechanism. ( Materials and methods ) A brief review of cassette seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis was conducted. The structural and technological parameters were justified; leading to the development of a selection seeder for the second stage of selection trials. This seeder incorporates a robotic cassette loading device and was designed in compliance with GOST R 60.0.0.4-2023/ISO 8373:2021 and OST 46 73-78. Laboratory tests were carried out on an experimental prototype of the seeder equipped with a robotic cassette loading device. ( Results and discussion ) The study identified key structural features of cassette-type selection seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis; particularly the SKS-6-10 and SSSE-6 models. A technical solution was proposed to automate the cassette loading process in selection seeders; reducing the need for manual labor. A new device design was developed; incorporating cassette blocks with sowing material arranged on a rotating platform; while cassette movement to the sowing mechanisms is facilitated by an actuator. Additionally a diagram and an operational algorithm for the robotic carousel-type cassette loading device are presented. ( Conclusions ) Replacing the conventional cassette loading device in a cassette-type selection seeder with a robotic carousel-type cassette loading device can increase sowing productivity by up to 20% per hour of shift time and reduce the labor intensity.