Optimal design and simulation analysis on a sowing depth control unit for corn precision planter

摘要

Non-uniformity of sowing depth is one of the main problems for no-till corn planters, because there isn't appropriate profile mechanism suitable for corn precision planter. To solve this problem, a sowing depth control unit for corn precision planterwas optimal designed. The unit consists of oscillating gauge wheel, parallel four-link mechanism and press wheels. A three-dimension model and a virtual prototype model of the unit were built. Simulation analysis was conducted using mechanical system dynamics simulation software to determine the optimal structural and operating parameters of the unit. Under conditions of different ground flatness, a virtual orthogonal test of parameters was carried out to examine the uniformity of sowing depth affectedby the radius of the oscillating gauge wheels, the length of the parallel four-link mechanism as well as the down force of the unit. Results indicated that the sowing depth was uniform when the oscillate gauge wheels' radius is smaller than 500mm, the length of the parallel four-link mechanism is 350mm and the down force is more than 600N in the condition that speed is higher than 9km/h.