Design and Optimization of the Cassava Stalk Harvesting Mechanism for an Intelligent Cassava Harvester Based on Digital Twin Technology

Cassava is an important economic crop in tropical and subtropical regions, and its stalks can be used as feed, fuel, and for agricultural reuse. However, the current harvesting of cassava stalks mainly relies on manual labor, resulting in low efficiency, high labor intensity, and significant losses. This paper proposes an intelligent cassava harvester stalk cutting mechanism based on digital twin technology. By integrating modern mechanical design with an electromechanical control system, the approach improves harvesting efficiency and smart capabilities. A three-dimensional model was built using SolidWorks, and control was implemented via Python and a Linux system to achieve precise cutting, conveying, and packaging of cassava stalks. Finally, simulation analysis and experimental validation were conducted to optimize the equipment’s performance. The research results indicate that the harvester exhibits significant advantages in terms of cutting accuracy, operational efficiency, and stability, offering a new approach for the mechanization and intelligent development of cassava harvesting. The floating disc cutter achieves a cutting accuracy of $\pm 5 \mathrm{~mm}$ above the root zone. Compared to manual or semi-mechanized harvesting, the system increased harvesting efficiency by approximately $42 \%$, and reduced cassava stalk loss rate by $35 \%$.