The paper highlights the imperative for the maintenance and repair of agricultural machinery. (Research purpose) The research aims to undertake a retrospective analysis illuminating the evolution and establishment of the machine repair system. This analysis spans from the production of the inaugural Soviet tractor to the advancement and production of contemporary machinery and equipment. (Materials and methods) The paper analyses publications from different periods focused on the challenges surrounding the establishment of a centralized system for the repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment across all stages of agricultural production development. (Results and discussion). The paper sheds the light on the dynamics of tractor production in the early 1930s, detailing the transition from reliance on imports to the utilization of domestic agricultural machinery in the local market, alongside the phases involved in establishing a domestic repair service system. Furthermore, it explores the evolution of repair workshops at machinery technological stations from 1928 to 1957 and outlines the structuring of a repair depot within the enterprises of the All-Union Association «Soyuzselkhoztekhnika» between 1961 and 1990. Additionally, the paper delves into the analysis of repair strategies, ranging from individualized to in-line approaches. The paper underscores the pivotal role of academic and industrial science in equipping repair enterprises with essential technological documentation, repair equipment, and supplementary materials. It also highlights their contribution to the development of methodological support for maintenance and repair operations at the level of a centralized system. (Conclusions) The paper presents information on the research and design activities undertaken by specialized laboratories and departments within the All-Union Scientific Research Institute of Agricultural Mechanization VIM from 1930 to 1961. It acknowledges the significant contributions of scientists and experts in the domains of machine wear theory and the standardization of repair technologies. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the critical influence of the State Union Scientific Research Technological Institute for the Repair and Operation of Tractors and Agricultural Machines GOSNITI between 1963 and 2013 on establishing a robust machinery repair and maintenance system. It outlines the potential and future directions for the evolution of a service system for agricultural machinery.

At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, there was a significant development in the field of domestic agricultural engineering science, which focused on the challenges associated with the creation of agricultural machinery. The integration of new technologies in agriculture necessitated a scientific foundation for these advancements, with a keen consideration for the traditional methods of land cultivation. It is posited that the origins of the scientific team at the Institute of Agroengineering and Environmental Problems of Agricultural Production can be traced back to the establishment of the Bureau of Agricultural Mechanics in Saint Petersburg in 1907. (Research purpose) The paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the historical and scientific foundations surrounding the emergence and evolution of agroengineering science in Saint Petersburg; and illustrate the continuity of scientific traditions in addressing production objectives within the realm of «Agroecology». (Materials and methods) The analysis was conducted by drawing upon publications that delve into the inception in Russia agricultural mechanization science, the chronicles of the State Agricultural Museum as well as materials prepared for the 100th anniversary of the Bureau of Agricultural Mechanics’ establishment. (Results and discussion) The paper outlines the primary stages and identifies the scientists who played pivotal roles in the operations of the Bureau during 1907-1917. Commencing its activities in Leningrad in 1930, the Institute was later relocated to Moscow. In Leningrad, branches of both VIM and VIESKH were established, where former members of the Bureau continued their work. Further, after various organizational changes, the Leningrad branches were amalgamated in 1962 to form an independent institution known as NIIMESKH of the North-West. This later evolved into the research and production association «Nechernozemagromash» with the workforce exceeding 1,200 employees. In 2018, the Institute once again became a branch of VIM, with a renewed focus on comprehensive scientific research aimed at ensuring the environmental sustainability of agricultural production. (Conclusions) The most significant outcome stemming from the team’s extensive history is the continuity of knowledge transmission. Presently, operating under the umbrella of the Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM, the team at the Institute of Agroengineering and Environmental Problems of Agricultural Production continues the illustrious traditions of its inaugural predecessor—the Bureau of Agricultural Mechanics. It remains steadfast in its commitment to these traditions in tackling emerging challenges in agricultural science and practice.

The article delves into the scientific contributions and advancements of the eminent Russian scientist in agricultural tractor construction, Vasily Nikolaevich Boltinsky. (Research purpose) The paper aims to shape and consolidate historical, scientific, engineering and technical concepts regarding the establishment and development of scientific and pedagogical institutions focused on the study of tractor engine operation and machine-tractor units in unsteady modes. It also seeks to underscore the contributions made by Doctor of Technical Sciences, Professor, and Member of VASKHNIL, V.N. Boltinsky. (Materials and methods) The study employs a chronological approach, utilizing historical, scientific, and informational resources, including publications by prominent scientists and original works by the academician himself. The paper also analyzes and summarizes historical facts detailing the role of V.N. Boltinsky in enhancing the design and efficiency of Soviet tractors and machinery units. (Results and discussions) Throughout his career, from assistant to associate professor to vice-president of VASKHNIL, V.N. Boltinsky dedicated himself to developing and testing new models of both foreign and domestic tractor equipment. His extensive experience and years of research culminated in the publication of the monograph «Operation of a tractor engine under unsteady load», which extensively explores the impact of varying loads on engine performance. V.N. Boltinsky successfully solved problems related to enhancing the operational speed of machine and tractor units, as well as innovating the design of agricultural machinery. (Conclusions) The life and professional endeavors of V.N. Boltinsky serve as a shining example of dedication to science, education, and the professional advancement of engineering and scientific professionals. To honor his legacy, an annual scientific and practical seminar entitled «Academician V.N. Boltinsky Readings» is held in Russia, ensuring his contributions continue to be celebrated and remembered.

The paper shows the development of technologies and tools of mechanization and automation in livestock farming for the period from 1930 to the present. (Research purpose) Given the cyclical nature of processes and the nuanced interpretations of scientific heritage, it is necessary to investigate the historical experience and contributions of scientists to the development and practical implementation of mechanization and automation tools in livestock farming. (Methods and materials) The paper examines the primary stages of mechanization and automation in cow milking, starting with the development of the first Soviet three-stroke milking machine DA-3. It considers the contributions made by specialized institutes of the All-Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences and individual scientists in formulating testing methodologies for milking machines. Additionally, it explores the development and adoption of novel electromechanical tools for dairy farms. (Results and discussion) Considered in this paper are the pioneering efforts in the creation of the first milking parlors. These include the stationary herringbone type machines with a parallel-pass design, spearheaded by V.S. Krasnov, V.F. Korolev, V.P. Larin, V.P. Pokhvalensky, and A.N. Dormidontov, and the development of mobile carousel parlors of the «rotating herringbone» type, engineered by the design bureau of the Siberian Research Institute of Agriculture under the supervision of I.I. Teslenko, N.V. Krasnoshchekov, K.S. Shapovalov, N.K. Vazenmiller, A.V. Goldenfang. (Conclusions) The paper notes the significance of adopting a systematic approach to the developing of machinery for livestock farming mechanization. This approach was actively pursued by N.M. Morozov, the member of the Russian Academy of Sciences. A significant milestone in the advancement of the theory and practice of animal husbandry processes was the pioneering work in developing and implementing technology for flow-conveyor animal service, headed by Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences L.P. Kormanovsky. The paper reveals the necessity of conducting a historical practices from previous generations. This approach helps to develop modern models of machinery and equipment and avoid mere replication of foreign designs. It also facilitates independent research and development efforts, incorporating insights from the accumulated experience of utilizing equipment and technologies in Russia.

The paper emphasizes the pivotal role played by Academician Dmitry Nikolaevich Pryanishnikov in the history of domestic agriculture development. His name is indelibly associated with the introduction of the agriculture chemicalization concept in 1924. Being a follower of such scientists as J.B. Boussingault, D.I. Mendeleev, and K.A. Timiryazev, Dmitry Nikolaevich Pryanishnikov not only proposed the chemicalization principle but also formed a comprehensive research program for its implementation. Moreover, he created necessary educational conditions for specialists and courageously defended his doctrine against the criticism of his opponents in the 1930-1950s. (Research purpose) The paper aims to analyze the scientific heritage and biography of Academician D.N. Pryanishnikov in the context of the domestic agriculture chemicalization. (Materials and methods) The analysis relies on scrutinizing scientific monographs, legal documents, and other publications utilizing biographical, chronological, genetic and typological methods of historical and scientific research. ( ) The findings show that Pryanishnikov’s significance in the history of science stems from both his personal research achievements and his foundational role in establishing the domestic tradition of agrochemistry. This influence was evident in his organizational and pedagogical performance. The study identifies two distinct generations of direct students and followers of this eminent agricultural chemist. (Conclusions) Academician D.N. Pryanishnikov elevated agrochemistry in our country to a systematic discipline, rightfully earning recognition as the founder of the national scientific school. Contemporary researchers, who maintain academic and ideological continuity with him, persist in advancing scientific efforts to support the chemicalization of agriculture. In doing so, they make significant contributions to the nation’s food security and enhance fundamental knowledge about living organisms.

The paper notes the feasibility of a vibration-based method for feed grain grinding. However, preference should be placed on dynamic machine configurations that enhance energy efficiency and increase the overall structural reliability. In this regard, it is worth considering the vibration grinder proposed in Patent RU 2688424C1. (Research purpose) The study aims to improve the technical capabilities of feed grain vibration grinders through the utilization of self-synchronization effects in vibration exciters and anti-resonance in working components. (Materials and methods) The authors developed a mathematical model for the dynamics of the working bodies in this type of a grain vibration grinder, taking into consideration the design of these bodies and their interaction with the technological environment. (Results and discussion) The findings show that effective execution of the technological process requires counter-rotating unbalance shafts and fine-tuning the working bodies to operate in an anti-resonance mode. The experiment confirms stable self-synchronization of vibration exciters in the anti-resonance mode of the working bodies, although the phasing of the unbalance shafts deviates slightly from the theoretical 180-degree mark, measuring between 168 and 170 degrees. This deviation does not have an adverse impact on the grinding process. As a result, the initial hypothesis combining the effects of self-synchronization in vibration exciters and anti-resonance in working bodies has received both theoretical and experimental confirmation. (Conclusions) It has been established that effective implementation of the technological process necessitates the counter-rotation of unbalance shafts, resulting in the self-synchronization of vibration exciters, and adjustment of the working bodies to an anti-resonance mode.

The paper highlights the significance of the drying process in post-harvest cucurbit seed treatment technology. To improve the effectiveness of drying high-moisture seeds, a plant construction design was introduced, incorporating the concept of providing varied heat distribution to a vigorously agitated seed layer. The paper validates the necessity of refining the dimensional, frictional, and aerodynamic properties of pumpkin seeds to determine the optimal operating modes for the proposed dryer. (Research purpose) To identify the physical and mechanical properties of pumpkin seeds by defining their dimensional, frictional and aerodynamic characteristics. (Materials and methods) The study employs one-factor experimental research methods with subsequent statistical data processing. An experimental study was conducted on the physical and mechanical properties of Volzhskaya Grey pumpkin seeds possessing a standard moisture content ranging between 9.3 and 9.7 percent. Well-known laboratory apparatuses, namely the «conical tank» and the «inclined plane», were used to determine the natural repose angle and to enhance the accuracy of friction coefficients determination. For analyzing the aerodynamic properties of the seeds, the K-293 Petkus air separator was employed. (Results and discussion) Research methods were developed and experimental plants were described. It was established that with a probability confidence level of 0.95, the static friction coefficients of pumpkin seeds on a solid steel sheet, a perforated steel sieve and on rubber are 0.473, 0.418, 0.481, respectively, and the dynamic friction coefficients under the identical conditions are measured as 0.331, 0.293, 0.337. The average angle of natural repose is found to be 22 degrees, the midsection area is 97.94 square millimeters, the soaring velocity is 7.083 meters per second, the windage coefficient stands at 0.196 and the aerodynamic drag coefficient is 0.136. (Conclusions). The assumption that enhancing the drying efficiency of vegetable seeds can be achieved by implementing a diverse thermal energy supply to continuously moving mass inside the apparatus is confirmed, provided that the seeds do not stick together in layers resulting in blockage of the coolant flow. An improved design of the dryer configurations has been developed and, to validate its optimum design and technological specifications, an in-depth analysis of the seeds' dimensional, frictional, and aerodynamic attributes has been conducted.

The paper notes the significance of promptly identifying infected plants when cultivating potatoes for breeding and seed production. Consequently, there is a need to undertake a series of initiatives aimed at developing a digital system for automated detection and recognition of both healthy and infected plants. (Research purpose) The research aims to determine the patterns of changes in the quality indicators of the machinery employed in cultivating potato plants. (Materials and methods) The research was carried out on the area of the selection-experimental plot. A system of criteria was developed to evaluate the identification of infected plants. (Results and discussion) The research assisted in identifying the required reliability of the measuring operation for the machine vision system and aided in predicting its current state for identifying infected plants. This was achieved by analyzing statistical data on the distribution of the indirect parameter (indications of infection on the inside of the plant leaf) and considering the margin of error in its measurements. The reliability of the system for identifying infected plants depends on the precision of technical instruments used to gauge the plant’s condition, the methodologies employed in measurement, the software utilized for processing the obtained data, and other parameters. (Conclusions) Measurement information management involves making a judicious selection of an indirect parameter that guarantees the precision of identifying infected plants with a confidence interval of 0.95. It is revealed that in the initial training epoch of the infected plant identification system, the accuracy of plant classification stood at 0.797, equivalent to 79.7 percent for all plants. The correctness of infected plant recognition was 0.607 or 60.7 percent. Moreover, the accuracy of correctly identifying infected plants was determined to be 0.607, or 60.7 percent. Notably, by this epoch, the accuracy of recognizing healthy plants had already reached 99.9 percent.

Power driven rotary tillage tools are widely used in agriculture. However, the process of furrow formation by these tillage tools remains insufficiently studied. (Research purpose) To study the process of furrow formation by the actuating elements of rotary working bodies with an active drive. (Materials and methods) The experiments were carried out on a laboratory setup in a soil bin filled with sandy soil. The attack angle of the working elements ranged from 30 to 90 degrees, and the kinematic parameter varied from 0.8 to 2.2. The actuating element of the investigated rotary tillage tools was made in both circular and elliptical blade forms with the least curvature line (the major semi-axis of the ellipse). The actuating element with an elliptical blade has the ability to adjust the angle of inclination relative to the axis of rotation of the of the tillage tool. (Results and discussion) Rotary tillage tools with a circular blade form a furrow parallel to the travel direction. It has been established that an increase in the attack angle of the tillage tool from 30 to 90 degrees results in a twofold increase in the width of the furrow. The actuating element, made along the elliptical line of the blade, forms a furrow having the shape of a parallelogram when viewed from above. At a small angle of attack, this actuating element forms a short, narrow furrow deviating from the unit’s travel direction within the boundaries of the furrow width of the rotary tillage tool. (Conclusions) The results obtained make it possible to choose the parameters for the studied rotary tillage tools, which will ensure the formation of optimal furrows. This will increase the evenness of the furrow bottom and the degree of weed destruction, i.e. improved soil quality.

The paper highlights the surging interest in organic agriculture among both food producers and consumers in Russia. However, when transitioning from intensive agricultural production to organic technologies, certain problems arise. This applies to crop cultivation, especially potatoes, as the ban on traditional mineral fertilizers necessitates the search for rational and science-based alternative methods. (Research purpose) The study aims to investigate the impact of deep inter-row potato cultivation on tuber yield without using fertilizers. (Materials and methods) To adapt crop cultivation practices in the North-West region to organic production requirements, a six-field crop rotation, including potatoes, was implemented at the Institute of Agroengineering and Environmental Problems of Agricultural Production. The experimental field soil is characterized as soddy-podzolic and light loamy. For the experiment, the domestic potato variety Udacha was used. Continuous monitoring was conducted for the soil’s physical parameters. Inter-row cultivation was performed in two ways: hilling with harrowing using the row-crop cultivator KON-2.8 + BRU (control planting) and deep cultivation to 27 centimeter depth with the KNO-2.8 + BRU (test planting). (Results and discussion) Digital agromonitoring of environmental climatic parameters and soil physical characteristics, including hardness and moisture content, was conducted. The study examined the impact of inter-row-cultivation method on potato yields over three years. In three-year retrospective study, the highest yield of 20.57 tons per hectare was achieved in 2022, while adverse soil and climatic conditions in 2021 led to the lowest yields of 12.8 tons in the control planting and 14.19 tons in the experiment planting. (Conclusions) By creating favorable soil conditions for potato development through eliminating compaction in the rows, the increase in yield can reach 27 percent due to deep row cultivation, improved soil moisture, and moisture retention.

The potato harvester’s distinctive specifications include the spatially segregated drive of its units from an external engine, operating under stochastic conditions. This setup complicates the loading of its components, including transmission shafts, and creates the prerequisites for decreased durability, leading to an upsurge in fatigue failures. To counteract this process, transmission shafts undergo a special treatment aimed at mitigating concentrated defects. (Research purpose) The purpose of this research is to formulate an objective function for controlling the finishing treatment of transmission shafts in a potato harvester. This function is designed to maximize potato yield while monitoring concentrated defects. (Materials and methods) The implementation of the method requires equipment capable of being controlled through a technical vision channel. The control scheme employs mathematical tools for describing discrete and continuous random variables, Markov processes with discrete time and continuous state space, the maximum likelihood method, and methods of numerical optimization in multifactor space. (Results and discussion) The research has yielded formulas for calculating the probabilities of successful and unsuccessful outcomes of finishing treatment based on the criterion of concentrated defect presence. The paper provides the results of testing the proposed algorithm for predicting the yield of viable products using the proposed method based on interim measurements of defect characteristics during the treatment process. Additionally, a scheme is proposed for integrating the obtained results into the production process of manufacturing transmission shafts for potato harvesters. (Conclusions) An algorithm has been proposed to control the finishing treatment of the transmission shaft based on a predictive assessment of the probability of manufacturing a product that adheres to the specified technical criteria regarding geometry and surface cleanliness. The predictive probability of achieving a surface with the required cleanliness without exceeding permissible defect limits is considered as the objective function. The solution to the problem is achieved through the selection of appropriate technological parameters.

To process agricultural crops, unmanned aerial vehicles carrying tanks with liquid chemicals are used. The paper highlights that containers made of polypropylene and polyethylene exhibit inferior qualities compared to those made of fiberglass, specifically, in terms of strength, thermal stability, resistance to ultraviolet rays, and service life. (Research purpose) To design and manufacture a tank made of composite fiberglass material with a water hammer damper. (Materials and methods) S-glass and epoxy vinyl ester resin were selected for the tank, as they exhibit superior resistance to chemical influences. To construct the tank elements, spray application, impregnation of glass fiber filler in a closed form, and winding were used. (Results and discussion) A comparative analysis was conducted on tank models, assessing their performance with and without a water hammer damper. The effectiveness of the suggested solution has been substantiated through the utilization of KOMPAS-3D software in the KompasFlow application, Within this software, the hydraulic shock is simulated to propagate inside the tank, reflecting off the walls, and gradually diminishing. Load and strength calculations for the fiberglass tank were performed by considering fiberglass parameters using the APM FEM application. (Conclusions) A tank model designed for application of liquid chemical substances in crop spraying from unmanned aerial vehicles has been developed. Innovative methods were employed in the manufacturing of the tank components. Additionally, careful consideration was given to the feasibility of maintenance and reparability. The tank’s volume (experimental sample) measures 0.0158 cubic meters, with a length of 480 millimeters, a width of 216 millimeters, a thickness of 3.6 millimeters, and a weight of approximately 4 kilograms. The design for mounting the composite tank on the unmanned aerial vehicle ensures that the weight of the unmanned aerial vehicle does not impact the tank.

The paper highlights that the escalation in the use of pesticides and agrochemicals poses a significant risk to human health, environmental integrity, and food safety. The predominant method of pesticide application is crop spraying. Improved efficiency and quality of spraying, coupled with a reduction in drug costs, can be achieved by transitioning to differential treatment of agricultural land and precision dose regulation. The incorporation of robotic devices offers a promising solution to facilitate the process of plant protection. (Research purpose) The research aims to develop a positioning system for a robotic differential spraying device. (Materials and methods) were subjected to chemical treatment by an autonomous field robot, and the quality of spraying was assessed using a nozzle. (Results and discussion) The research established a relationship between calculating the nozzle capture angle of an individual plant and the angle of lever lift. Subsequently, a computerized spraying model was developed, enabling the adjustment of various parameters and benchmarking the proposed differential spraying method against the traditional one. The variation coefficient, reflecting the uniformity of droplet distribution on the plant surface, was calculated. The results indicate that the variation coefficient is dependent on the speed and distance of spraying in different operating modes, including individual plant spraying and row spraying. (Conclusions) The variation coefficient for the traditional spray method was 46 percent. With the adoption of differential spraying methods, this variation coefficient decreased to 25-28 percent for individual plant spraying and 33-40 percent for row spraying. Field studies further demonstrated a variation coefficient of 19-24 percent for individual plant spraying in contrast to 30-35 percent for row-spray treatments.

Animal phenotype assessment plays a crucial role in enhancing the genetic potential of domestic breeds. Currently, research is underway to digitize and automate phenotyping through optical systems, enabling the recognition and evaluation of animals’ linear parameters. A prototype of a non-contact monitoring system for livestock phenotype indicators is currently under development. The movement of animals within the model (a laboratory measuring stand) is restricted by a specially designed transparent barrier made of polyethylene terephthalate, enabling the capture of three-dimensional photographs of the animals’ exterior. To validate the suitability of glass for this purpose, laboratory tests were conducted. (Research purpose) The research aims to determine the degree of relationship between protective glass contamination and the accuracy of the optical animal recognition system. (Materials and methods) The paper outlines the specifications of the laboratory stand, facilities, and equipment used, along with the methods employed and experimental conditions. The probability of determining the degree of protective glass contamination was quantified on a scale of 0 to 1, with a value of 0.78 indicating a high likelihood of accurate determination. (Results and discussion) The findings reveal that the system for determining the linear parameters of animals can operate reliably even when the protective glass is contaminated up to 30 percent. When the contamination reaches 50 percent due to inadequate glass cleaning, the system’s ability to recognize points of interest reduces by a factor of 1.625. Furthermore, at 80 percent contamination, achieving high-quality data collection becomes unfeasible as the camera fails to recognize the object. Proper cleaning of the glass is imperative to maintain the system stability. (Conclusions) The optical system enables the recognition and evaluation of animals’ linear parameters, provided that the protective glass of the laboratory stand is contaminated by no more than 50 percent and undergoes high-quality cleaning. At lower levels of glass contamination, up to 30 percent, these estimates exhibit a 2.6-38 percent increase compared to other contamination levels.

The paper highlights that grazing a dairy herd on ecologically pristine mountain pastures facilitates the production of raw milk at reduced costs. Preserving the native properties of milk and achieving superior product quality necessitates prompt milk processing, particularly through efficient cooling and storage at low temperatures. (Research purpose) The primary objective of this research is to substantiate the methodology for dairy cattle management and to develop technological solutions for milking and primary milk processing in mountainous pastures. (Materials and methods) Prototypes of milking machines and cooling equipment utilizing natural cold sources were developed and produced. Trials were conducted on farms in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic. A methodology to produce consumable milk has been developed considering the natural and climatic conditions inherent in grazing dairy cattle on mountain pastures and existing machinery for milking and primary processing of raw materials. The technology includes the basic operations such as dairy herd feeding and management, milking, primary milk processing and storage of drinking cow’s milk. (Results and discussion) The technology is poised to enhance milk production by 10 percent, elevate the fat content by 3 percent, and decrease the incidence of mastitis in cows attributed to conventional machine milking tailored for lowland conditions by 40 percent. Moreover, it promises a 15 percent reduction in energy consumption for operating milking and refrigeration equipment as well as an increase in labor productivity. These technical and technological advancements are fortified with patent protection. (Conclusions) The development of dairy farming in mountainous regions, rich in naturally growing, ecologically pristine pasture lands, is an economically attractive direction to produce premium domestic dairy products. Comparative analyses conducted through laboratory assessments and field trials substantiate the viability of employing the proposed technological methodologies and machinery.