Design and implementation of a pneumatic machine for ergonomic greenhouse planting

The continuous development of greenhouse agriculture requires technological innovations to optimize labour-intensive tasks such as crop planting. In Almeria, Spain, greenhouse planting is traditionally performed manually using an iron lance, a process that imposes a high biomechanical load and often leads to musculoskeletal disorders among agricultural workers. This study presents the design, development, and validation of a pneumatic system attachable to a conventional agricultural cart, designed to facilitate hole opening in the soil for planting. The system operates using compressed air to drive a pneumatic actuator that perforates the soil with dimensions suitable for plant root balls. Experimental validation results demonstrate that the system tool operates with optimal depth characteristics and high precision. The biomechanical analysis shows a significant reduction in the effort required by workers—exceeding 50%—as well as improved stability in the applied force, leading to a more even distribution of exertion. This minimizes biomechanical impact, reduces the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, and enhances productivity. The designed system is efficient and represents a significant ergonomic advancement in agriculture, providing an accessible and cost-effective solution to improve working conditions and reduce health risks in the agricultural sector.