The paper notes the potential for enhancing seed productivity through exposure to an electromagnetic field. It touches upon both theoretical and practical considerations for developing an experimental laboratory plant for pre-sowing seed treatment using a low-frequency electromagnetic field and aiming to achieve a magnetobiological effect. (Research purpose) The study aims to investigate the influence of low-frequency electromagnetic field on the composition and properties of grain seeds. (Materials and methods) Standard emitters, characterized by a magnetic induction variability of 3-75 millitesla and a radiation frequency of 1-100 Hertz, were employed to ensure the necessary treatment parameters for a batch of seeds. (Results and discussion) The study investigates the impact of magnetization on the germination process, germination energy, and the physical and chemical properties of seeds subjected to different parameters of a low-frequency electromagnetic field (ranging from 3 to 75 millitesla in magnetic induction and a radiation frequency of 10-16 Hertz).The quality of the effect was analyzed with respect to the installation parameters and seed mass, ranging from 10 to 500 grams, across various cereal crops. Subsequently, specific modes were identified, and a functional irradiation program was devised to ensure a highly effective impact on seeds, optimizing their germination, sprouting and development. (Conclusions) The impact of a low-frequency electromagnetic field on the composition and properties of grain has been studied. An experimental laboratory plant with sources of a low-frequency electromagnetic field has been developed and irradiation modes have been justified. The pre-sowing treatment of an industrial batch, the magnetobiological effect is contingent upon several factors, including the crop type and variety, activation of a biological complex in a cell that initiates the development of a seedling, seed quality and moisture content, the presence of microorganisms on the surface, pathogenic ones included, and the characteristics of irradiation sources and energy parameters. The parameters of the low-frequency electromagnetic field were determined as follows: magnetic induction ranging from 3 to 75 millitesla, a frequency 10-16 Hertz, and seed weight varying from 10 to 500 grams. These identified parameters will be applied in the development of an industrial unit designed for the preparation of seed material and enhancement of its sowing properties.

The paper considers modernization of the agricultural sector with the aim of enhancing its efficiency and competitiveness through the implementation of digital technologies. Additionally, it analyzes the methods and software employed for the selection of technologies and technical tools. (Research purpose) The research aims to develop software modules for managing the production of crop products. This involves the selection of appropriate agricultural technologies and the optimal utilization of the machine and tractor fleet. The software designed is expected to take into account the farm agroclimatic and production conditions. (Materials and methods) The development of software components for a web-based software package aimed to facilitate the annual work planning in grain crop cultivation, is based on a method rooted in the evaluation of natural, climatic, and production conditions. (Results and discussion) The findings support the feasibility of developing software components for a web-based software package by selecting agricultural technologies and determining optimal utilization options for technical means. The research resulted in the development of a structural scheme for the software package designed as a web-based application, encompassing such software modules as «Selection of technologies» and «Selection of technical means». These modules share a unified interface and operate on a common database. The operation of software modules for selecting technologies was tested in the northern forest-steppe zone of the Novosibirsk region in 2022.The tests examined the cultivation technologies for wheat at a standard intensification level across four working areas with varying predecessors. (Conclusions) The developed software components will be subsequently integrated into the software package in the form of a web application. This application can serve as a support system for making informed managerial decisions in the realm of machine-based agricultural technologies. The software package facilitates the automation of technology selection, the creation of an annual work plan, and the computation of economic indicators.

The paper highlights the difficulties of functioning in multi-parameter systems due to the diverse nature of their link connections. The paper examines a specific case of an «operator-machine-animal» biotechnological system employed in the context of machine milking operations. The system includes three subsystems: two of them have a biological nature and exhibit probabilistic behavior, while the milking machine, serving as a connecting element with inanimate characteristics, is to be regarded as a deterministic technical subsystem. (Research purpose) The research aims to substantiate the conceptual approach to the functioning of an «operator-machine-animal» biotechnical system, taking into account the subsystem interaction patterns. (Materials and methods) The paper explores the conditions governing the operation of biotechnical systems characterized by inherent randomness (in the probabilistic-statistical sense). It was determined that the operation of such a system is influenced by a significantly greater number of factors compared to the «man-machine» system. The biotechnical system as a whole remains stochastic, while its control algorithms maintain a probabilistic nature. The study was conducted by assessing the results obtained through statistical analysis of experimental data, employing methods and techniques of mathematical modeling for technological processes, and exploring key avenues for the development of intelligent digital technologies. (Results and discussion) The utilization of adaptive control principles ensures a high probability of successfully attaining the ultimate objectives. A model for an «operator-machine-animal» system functioning has been developed. The rationale for the efficacy of the interaction between the «machine» and «animal» subsystems is illustrated through the case study of the DeLaval™ DelPro MU480 linear milking machine. A block scheme for the «operator-machine» control system was developed. The performance of the machine milking operator was assessed. A mathematical model detailing the operator's errors was outlined. Criteria for ensuring the operational reliability of the «operator-machine» system were introduced. (Conclusions) The efficiency of a multiply connected biotechnical system is constrained by the zone of maximum adaptation. A mathematical model is provided to describe the functioning of a machine milking operator. The professional stability of an operator, acting as an adaptive and stochastic component, depends on individual attributes and working conditions that need statistical evaluation. The adaptation concept is indicated as a promising area of research. Engineering decisions about the cow milking process are to be based on practical insights into animal ethology, formalized through logical-linguistic models.

The paper highlights the importance of clarifying scientific terminology to delineate the exclusion of humans from technical systems, in particular the concepts such as «mechanization,» «automation,» «robotization,» and «digitalization» that are commonly used in scientific literature without a precise definition of their essence and distinctions. (Research purpose) The paper aims to provide clarity and systematic categorization of terms employed to describe the exclusion of humans from agricultural technical systems. (Materials and methods) The paper employs the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), the Theory of Decision Making, and the System Method as theoretical frameworks. (Results and discussion) The paper provides a comprehensive clarification of the conceptual meanings attributed to terms such as mechanization, automation, robotization, and digitalization. It outlines their classical (Aristotelian) definitions and systematically categorizes a broad spectrum of related concepts, including mechanization, automation, robotization, intellectualization, digitalization, cyber-physical system, precision agriculture, digital agriculture, and smart (intelligent) agriculture. The obtained results are compared utilizing the approach of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (Conclusions) It is concluded that the concept of mechanization, in contrast to the FAO approach, does not encompass farming reliant on manual labor and animal traction. It is determined that robotization necessitates intellectualization, whereas automation does not necessarily require it. Furthermore, digitalization is demonstrated as a means of implementing automation, robotization, intellectualization, and optimizing the operation of technical systems.

Within the project of developing an automatic feed wagon, the initial task is to determine its overall parameters, which directly depend on the wagon volume. (Research purpose) To simulate the automatic feed wagon operation in order to determine the optimal volume ensuring the versatility of its use in cattle cowsheds accommodating different numbers of animals, and practicing different feeding frequency. (Materials and methods) The solution to the problem is based on the calculation of the feeding time taken by the automatic feed wagon. The time must not exceed the limit values established by zootechnical standards. To calculate the feeding time taken by an automatic feed wagon, a graph-theory-based simulation method was used, taking into account the probabilistic nature of the components of feed mixture distribution time balance. The calculations were performed in MS Excel. (Results and discussion) The paper describes the conditions for simulation and considers two options for the automatic feed wagon operation, in particular the option when one robot serves two cowsheds and the other when each cowshed is served by a separate feed wagon. (Conclusions) The second option with a separate automated feed wagon for each cowshed is proved to be more suitable. It has been obtained that in this case, the reduced movement length results in a 27.9-36.2 percent increase in productivity of the automatic feed wagon; besides there is no need to install automatic gates and build an insulated vestibule to move the robot between the cowsheds. Thus, the programming task becomes simplified. It has been found out that an automatic feed wagon having the volume of 2 cubic meters is enough to feed animals in the cowsheds sized 111.9 meters by 26.6 meters and smaller, accommodating up to 340 cows, and with a feeding frequency of 4-8 times a day.

The paper highlights a lack of machines and equipment capable of cleaning highly impure soybean material efficiently and productively. Most of the existing grain cleaning machines are designed for the materials conforming to GOST 17109-88 that specifies weed and oilseed impurity contents of 2 and 6 percent, respectively. In reality, a typical soybean post-harvest waste often contains 20 to 60 percent of material unsuitable for extracting raw protein, that makes this type of material completely non–separable for this type of machine. (Research purpose) The research aims to determine the optimal efficiency of separating heterogeneous bulk mixtures in a vertically ascending air channel. (Materials and methods) To accomplish this, the authors employed a rotary batch classifier RBK 30 and a prototype sample of a precision air classifier PAC with column air flow accelerators. The paper defines impurity separation completeness and soybean waste separation efficiency in a novel pneumatic classifier, considering the accelerator thickness and the height above the processed material. (Results and discussion) The findings reveal that traditional pneumatic channels achieve no more than 20 percent of separation efficiency for highly impure soybean material, while the precision air classifier demonstrates approximately a 45 percent separation. (Conclusions) Typical air flow machines struggle with high impurity of material. The separation efficiency of highly impure material can be enhanced by equalizing the air flow velocity inside and above the layer of the separated material and installing a core air flow accelerator. The study indicates that the material being processed can be separated by air flow, provided a specialized pneumatic separation channel is used. Due to the ratio of the core accelerator height and the height above the material, the air flow velocity inside and above the separated layer is equalized.

The paper highlights advantages of using furnaces for processing vegetable waste, including the absence of condensation, minimal ash production, stable coolant temperature, and efficient heat exchange. To improve this machine and intensify the drying process, it is necessary to gather data on the heat and mass transfer characteristics during high-temperature drying of moisture-laden particles. Due to the inherent challenges of studying the drying process in a real furnace, the experiment was conducted using an isothermal (cold) model under laboratory conditions closely resembling real-world processes. (Research purpose) The research aims to assess the effectiveness of the proposed aerodynamic models for drying plant waste and validate the mathematical model for drying particles in a suspended bed. (Materials and methods) The study employs two suspended bed models with distinct vortex flow aerodynamics (flare and cyclone) in combustion chambers. The study investigates the drying kinetics of two specific fractions of sunflower husks, each with an equivalent particle diameter of 0.25 and 1.5 millimeters, and initial moisture levels of 15 and 18 percent. At various time intervals, measurements were taken for both the temperature and humidity of the husk particles, in addition to recording the temperature and relative humidity of the drying agent as it exited. The drying process operated in a cyclical mode. (Results and discussion) When the sunflower husk particles had an initial moisture content of 15 percent, two phases of increasing drying rates were observed, while at an 18 percent moisture content, three such periods were identified, with the first period displaying a constant rate. The results suggest that when the husks start with an initial moisture content of 15 percent, the drying curves exhibit minimal linear segments. This observation implies that the process is occurring as the drying rate decreases. (Conclusions) The experiment reveals the most effective drying mode in terms of intensity. It becomes evident that both the flarevortex and cyclone-vortex aerodynamic modes facilitate particle drying, with the cyclone-vortex mode delivering a notably more intense drying process. When transitioning from a model to a real-world process, it is essential to undertake a comparison of estimated processes with practical operational conditions, as exemplified by the particle drying model in a suspended bed.

The paper accentuates a noticeable shift toward more economical and environmentally friendly electric vehicles within global agriculture, prompted by the growing prices of fuels and lubricants. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles for agricultural tasks encounters limitations, including such factors as performance, cost, service life and safety of traction batteries. The battery thermal management system assumes a key role in regulating battery life. (Research purpose) The study aims to analyze contemporary cooling systems for electric batteries, to identify the type of coolant capable of sustaining the optimal temperature of the traction battery under diverse climatic conditions. (Materials and methods) The paper examines the cooling systems and methods employed for battery temperature control. It provides a theoretical analysis of the effectiveness of thermal regulation for traction batteries, specifically exploring the potential to enhance battery performance through the maintenance of temperature at the required level. To facilitate comparison, several brands of electric vehicles from global automakers were selected. (Results and discussion) The paramount criterion for an effective cooling system is its capacity to rapidly dissipate heat during periods of elevated battery temperature while operating at a gradual pace during startup, thereby ensuring minimal impact on the efficiency of the electric vehicle. Based on this criterion, the paper provides statistical data regarding the modes and operating conditions of traction batteries, including their optimal operating temperature range. Calculations were conducted for three coolant types: ammonia, ethylene glycol and freon R134a. (Conclusions) Despite having an outlet temperature of 22.2 degrees Celsius, ethylene glycol registers 3.3 degrees higher than ammonia and 0.5 degrees higher than tetrafluoroethane, this refrigerant is suitable for application in copper piping.

The paper shows that incorporating a multifunctional combined unit with pulsed shock wave action into soil tillage presents a pertinent and promising advancement in the soil cultivation system. (Research purpose) The research aims to develop a multifunctional combined unit for soil tillage integrating pulsed shock wave action. The objectives include enhancing productivity, refining tillage quality and promoting ecological considerations. (Materials and methods) The unit consists of a main frame, two side-folding sections, and a central section, which is made featuring a carriage, support and transport wheels. Additionally, it incorporates a frame in the shape of a hollow shaft, connected to a compressed air cylinder. The front frames of each section are equipped with rigidly fixed working bodies taking the form of cultivator paws with embedded pneumatic tubes. These tubes have outlet holes positioned at the ends of the wings of the paws, with a compressed air effective radius of 5-10 centimeters. (Results and discussion) The established ratio between the depth of surface tillage using a cultivator paw and the depth of subsoil tillage through pulsed blows of compressed air is 1:2. The tillage devices are supplemented by disc cutters with a diameter ranging from 25 to 30 centimeters, along with harrows designed for processing to a depth of 5-7 centimeters. (Conclusions) Enhanced by this modification, the design of the multifunctional combined unit enables the simultaneous execution of multiple operations, including cultivation with weed destruction, soil loosening using high-pressure air flow, and surface milling and grinding.

The paper highlights that equipping agricultural mobile machines with sensors and electronic controls enables the remote acquisition of real-time information regarding the technical condition of engine systems while operation. (Research purpose) The objective of this research is to formulate a methodology for determining the multi-parameter characteristics of specific effective fuel consumption. This is illustrated through an examination of the Deutz BF 6M 2012 C engine, installed in the of the Terrion ATM 4200 tractor. (Materials and methods) The electronic control system was examined through data analysis. Utilizing Logic Analyzer 8, a connected logic analyzer, facilitated the extraction of a multi-parameter characteristic related to the specific fuel consumption of the engine. This data was obtained from the CAN bus while the machine was in operation. A statistical data processing method was developed using the Statistica 10 program. Regression equations were formulated to illustrate the correlation between fuel consumption, crankshaft speed and engine torque. The statistical significance of the relationship between fuel consumption across the entire range of operating modes and the selected parameters was corroborated by the values of the coefficient of determination and Fisher’s criterion. (Results and discussion) The data from the multi-parameter characteristic, illustrating the correlation between fuel consumption, engine speed, and torque, aligns with the information provided by the manufacturing plant. This alignment further validates the accuracy of the derived regression equations. (Conclusions) The suggested sequence of steps for obtain a multi-parameter characteristic can be applied to other engine performance indicators. Monitoring operational performance to analyze information on the technical condition of machine components and assemblies is necessary for diagnostics and ensuring timely maintenance and repair.

Tractor traction properties depend on many factors including engine power, operating weight and tractor weight distribution across axles, dimensions, profile, gears range and gear count in the gearbox. Moreover, the tractor technical condition plays a vital role, encompassing aspects from the fuel system affecting the engine power output, to the chassis, influencing terrain traversability, maneuverability, and soil deformation. (Research purpose) The paper addresses several research problems. To investigate the impact of the agricultural machinery connections with the tractor on the tractor traction properties, and determine the impact of agricultural machinery weight, and grip width on the main technical and economic parameters. To analyze how geometrical parameters of tractors and agricultural machinery correlate with soil reactions under the machine support wheels as well as the front and rear wheels of the tractor. To determine the influence of the design characteristics of cultivators with varying working widths on the main operational properties of the machine-tractor unit. (Materials and methods) The study involves examining the operation of the Belarus 82.1 tractor with cultivators KPS-4 and KPS-5 from different manufacturers. Various methods were employed, including calculation, calculation-construction, calculation-graphic analysis, economic-mathematical techniques, along with comparison, measurement, and description. (Results and discussion) This study identified indicators impacting the load redistribution transmitted to the tractor from mounted cultivators. Based on these indicators, alterations in soil reactions under cultivator support wheels and the tractor’s rear wheels were deduced. (Conclusions) The calculations on the effect of mounted cultivators with different working widths (different operating weight) on the redistribution of soil reactions between axles, enabled the determination of modifications in tractor traction force, machine-tractor unit productivity, and specific fuel consumption.

The expansion of agricultural production implies an accelerated pace of development of water supply systems in agricultural areas. Water is consumed during animal breeding, primary processing of raw materials, preparation of liquid fertilizers, for household and other needs. Large volumes of water are spent on preparing liquid fertilizers when growing crops and irrigating fields. To increase moisture reserves in the root layer of the soil and increase land fertility, it is necessary to carry out irrigation measures. Sprinkling is one of the most common methods of irrigation. Taking into account the characteristics of the terrain, the type of agricultural products grown, as well as the security of a particular farm, you should choose certain sprinkler machines that will ensure high irrigation efficiency. Sprinklers can be classified according to their principle of operation, type and type, as well as according to the transformation of water flow. (Research purpose) Improving irrigation efficiency by selecting the optimal parameters of sprinklers based on local conditions. (Materials and methods) The object of the study was sprinkling machines, their performance and technical characteristics, as well as the features of the relief. The following research methods were used: analysis of literary sources; logical analysis of existing experimental data on irrigation processes; evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of specific machines and equipment; statistical data processing. (Results and discussion) The paper describes the design and operation of various sprinklers, provides irrigation schemes and calculations of its intensity. Shortcomings of specific irrigation schemes and types of sprinklers were identified, and ways to eliminate them were proposed. (Conclusions) The choice of irrigation scheme depends on the area of the site and its topography. Depending on the budget of the farm, you can choose the most optimal type of sprinkler.

The paper explores the design characteristics of tillage tools during the period 1900-1950. (Research purpose) The primary objective of the paper is to undertake a retrospective analysis of the design characteristics of tillage tools used on blackened soils in the first half of the 20th century. (Materials and methods) The paper analyzes the stages involved in the creation and improvement of horse-drawn and tractor plows. The findings reveal the following categories of plows: suspended, front, frame, shuttle (balance), and reversible. (Results and discussion) The designs of horse-drawn and early tractor plows are examined. The paper highlights the benefit of balanced and reversible tools such as plowing without the formation of ridges and furrows, attributed to the alternating operation of right-handing and left-handing bodies. It is revealed that the development of wide-cut arable units occurred due to the modernization of frame sections and the possibility of their restructuring into three- and four-hull versions. It is determined that the October Revolution Plant and the All-Union Scientific Research Institute of Mechanization and Electrification of Agriculture (VIME), the predecessor to the Federal National Research Center VIM, were the pioneers behind the creation of the initial five-furrow plow in 1936, boasting a working width of 35 centimeters. (Conclusions) With the advent of wide-cut arable units, there was a reduction in labor intensity and energy consumption during the soil cultivation process. Plows equipped with screw moldboards were commonly employed for more effective incorporation of plant residues.

The paper highlights that research in the field of agricultural physics in this country began in the 1930s and is closely linked to the renowned physicist Abram Fedorovich Ioffe. Under his leadership, the world’s first Agrophysical Research Institute was established in 1932. A.F. Ioffe directed this institute from 1932 to 1942 and from 1954 to 1959. These periods are particularly noteworthy in terms of the scientist’s contributions to formulating and executing the institute’s objectives. (Research purpose) The paper aims to examine A.F. Ioffe’s role in the development of agrophysical science during his tenure as the director of the Agrophysical Institute from 1954 to 1959. (Materials and methods) The research is grounded in the analysis of archival materials, reports detailing research activities of the Agrophysical Research Institute, publications, and A.F. Ioffe’s engagements from 1932 to 1959. The study explores the role of physics in shaping and refining methods within domestic agricultural production. The paper presents the outcomes of theoretical and applied research conducted under the guidance of A.F. Ioffe, particularly focusing on the development of measuring instruments for integration into control systems within industrial agricultural production. (Results and discussion) It was revealed that during A.F. Ioffe’s leadership periods, the methodology of an «electronic agronomist» was developed, marking a global pioneering achievement. The paper shows the integration of advanced physics achievements into agriculture, and highlights the use of semiconductor devices to monitor the physical and chemical parameters of the soil, as well as external factors affecting crop life. (Conclusions) The paper underscores the pivotal role played by the scientist and organizer A.F. Ioffe during the emergence and development of domestic agronomic physics. It points out the primary directions of agrophysical work and the results achieved directly under the leadership of A.F. Ioffe. The paper also sheds light on their contribution to developing the main research directions in the field of agronomic physics, which continue to be pertinent in modern conditions.

The scientific ideas and contribution of Professor A.P. Iofinov to the development of agricultural science remain relevant in our time. The paper emphasizes Professor August Pavlovich Iofinov’s pivotal role in the exploration of quality management and the modeling of technological processes for agricultural machines. The scientific concepts introduced by A.P. Iofinov continue to hold significance in contemporary times. Their development and application contribute to improving the operational capabilities of agricultural machinery and bolstering the overall efficiency of the agricultural industry. (Research purpose) The study seeks to consolidate historical and scientific materials about the activities of professor A.P. Iofinov and the creation of a scientific school under his leadership at the Department of Agricultural Machinery of the Bashkir State Agrarian University. (Materials and methods) The establishment and evolution of the scientific school are examined through the problem-chronological method. Scientific issues articulated by Professor A.P. Iofinov, are presented chronological sequence of their progression, moving from hypothesis to practical testing and eventual generalization in scientific works. (Results and discussion) The paper chronicles the founding and progression of the scientific school affiliated with the Department of Agricultural Machines at the Bashkir State Agrarian University, guided by Professor A.P. Iofinov. The established scientific school delved into significant research domains, including the statistical dynamics of agricultural machinery, quality management of agricultural machinery, modeling of technological processes, and yield forecasting. At present, these research areas are experiencing renewed development, with new tasks being formulated to align with contemporary trends and the latest achievements in science and technology. (Conclusions) Professor A.P. Iofinov’s works and his scientific school have given rise to the development of new algorithms and computer programs essential for automating the control processes of agricultural machinery and forecasting yields. Furthermore, they have played a crucial role in the creation of digital twins for agricultural machines, based on models of technological processes. This advancement significantly enhances the precision and efficiency in resource utilization, improves the quality of work, and boosts productivity in agriculture.