A Comprehensive Analysis of Control Frequency in Self-Propelled Combine Harvesters Operating in Chhattisgarh

The increased utilization of combine harvesters in India, including the state of Chhattisgarh, has sparked concerns regarding operator discomfort stemming from subpar ergonomics. Particularly during the peak harvesting season, operators are compelled to work for extended durations, resulting in repetitive different control movements that exert excessive strain on them. To address this issue, a study was undertaken in Chhattisgarh to evaluate the operational frequencies of controls on self-propelled combine harvesters and categorize them as either frequently or infrequently used. 13 available combine harvesters of diverse makes and models were selected for this investigation, during which the operational frequency of 10 controls was scrutinized while harvesting paddy crops. The findings unveiled those controls such as the header assembly control lever, ground speed control lever, engine speed control lever, gear shift lever, clutch pedal, and brake pedal were frequently operated, with frequencies ranging from 315 to 655, 55 to 247, 5 to 13, 66 to 156, 58 to 256, and 49 to 152 actions per hour, respectively. Conversely, controls that were infrequently operated, namely the threshing control lever, whole assembly control lever, grain unloading control lever, and header engagement control lever, exhibited lower operational frequencies, varying from 3 to 9, 4 to 11, 2 to 5, and 4 to 9 actions per hour, respectively. In order to enhance efficiency and user-friendliness, it is recommended that frequently used controls be positioned within the close reach for maximum operator’s population, while controls with lower usage rates can be placed within the maximum reach of the operators. This strategic optimization of control placement is poised to enhance the overall performance of self-propelled combine harvesters in Chhattisgarh. Major Findings: 1. The incorporation of control frequency will provide will provide guidance for further improvement in degree of deployment of combine harvester for Chhattisgarh user. 2. This paper gives insight of control frequency for of various control lever which engage their most frequent controls are Header assembly control lever, clutch pedal, ground speed control lever, gear shift lever and brake pedal. 3. The incorporation of controls in new combine harvesters will reduce the drudgery and provide better comfort for both combine operators as well as farming community.