Development of a smart remote-controlled system for four-wheel paddy transplanter with anti-collision safety system and vision-assistance system for precision agriculture

• Smart remote-operated RF control of transplanter functions including steering, speed control, braking and transplanting mechanisms in a four-wheel paddy transplanter. • Integrated an anti-collision safety system to enhance operational safety and to prevent field accidents. • Incorporated a real-time camera for remote navigation, obstacle detection and row alignment without operator presence on the machine • Designed a low cost, scalable RC-ECS to address labour shortages and enhance transplanting efficiency in Asian rice cultivation The need to reduce human effort and overcome labour shortages presents a critical challenge to timely and efficient paddy transplanting. To address this, the present study introduces the design and implementation of a radio-frequency remote-controlled unit (RC) integrated with an onboard electronic control system (ECS) for essential operational functions of four-wheeled paddy transplanter. To ensure operational safety, the system integrates an anti-collision mechanism that automatically halts the vehicle during communication loss or operator error. A real-time camera module provides live visual feedback, enhancing transplanting accuracy and improving control during navigation and turning. A wireless ignition control unit enables remote engine start and stops, reducing manual intervention and enhancing safety during repositioning and emergency scenarios. Field trials conducted in puddled paddy fields showed an increase in transplanting speed from 0.82 ha/h to 0.88 ha/h (7.30%), field capacity from 0.75 ha/h to 0.80 ha/h (6.70%), efficiency from 74.6% to 79.6% (6.65%), and a reduction in fuel consumption from 7.20 L/ha to 6.75 L/ha (6.10%) with remote-controlled system. The system significantly reduced direct human involvement with both the machine and the field environment, thereby enhancing operator safety. These results confirm the RC-ECS as a low-cost and efficient automation platform for precision paddy transplanting, supporting remote operation, operator safety and improved field performance.