Research Status and Future Trends of DEM in Seed Metering Process of Seeders

This paper reviews the current research status and future development trends of the discrete element method (DEM) in the seed metering process of seeders. The basic principles of DEM and its application in the field of agricultural machinery are first introduced, with a focus on the research progress in model construction, simulation analysis, experimental verification, and parameter calibration in the seed metering process. The limitations of current research, such as model simplification errors, insufficient multi-physical-field coupling, and the absence of parameter standardization, are analyzed. Future directions in technological breakthroughs and application expansion are explored, including multi-method coupling simulation, high-performance computing and machine-learning applications, adaptive seed metering systems, development of new materials and structures, and standardization database construction. Finally, challenges and strategies for dealing with complex working conditions, deepening the integration of field tests and simulations, and cross-disciplinary talent cultivation are proposed. The results show that DEM has significant potential in optimizing seed metering design and improving sowing accuracy and efficiency, but further overcoming technological bottlenecks is needed to promote its widespread application in precision agriculture.