With the implementation of the GOELRO plan in the late 1920s and early 1930s, efforts were made to extend the use of electricity to agricultural fieldwork through the development of specialized machines and mechanisms. Numerous inventors, engineers, and scientists focused on finding ways to electrify energy-intensive agricultural operations. As a result, various designs of electric plows and electric tractors emerged. (Research purpose) The paper aims to analyze the development of electric tractors in the USSR during the period from 1930 to 1956. (Materials and methods) The study employs a chronological research method, examining scientific and technical publications, along with other sources, that address the manufacturing and testing of electric tractors. Conclusions were drawn through the analysis and synthesis of the reviewed materials. (Results and discussion) The initial phase of electrifying soil cultivation operations was marked by the development of plows powered by electric winches. In the early 1930s, tractors emerged with electric motors replacing traditional heat (internal combustion) engines. Advancements in electric tractor design led to the creation of tracked models such as the HTZ-15 (Kharkov) and ET-5-ENIN-VIESh (Moscow), which underwent extensive economic testing. The results indicated that the use of electric tractors in fi eld crop farming was unsuitable due to both technical and economic factors. (Conclusions) Between 1930 and 1956, at least 15 types of wheeled and tracked electric tractors were developed in the Soviet Union. Testing these models revealed both the advantages and drawbacks of electrified traction equipment. Despite their eff orts, mid-twentieth-century engineers were unable to resolve the technical challenges associated with the implementation of electric tractors, leading to the termination of the project in 1956.

The experience of technological development of our country is an important source of ideas and approaches to the further development of agriculture based on domestic equipment and technologies. The study of its evolution necessitates the using of periodization. It is currently undeveloped for chemization of agriculture, more often being replaced by a set of key dates and biographies. So, it is nesessary to develop a holistic version of the structuring of chemization history. (Research purpose) To propose and substantiate the authors’ version of Russian agriculture chemization periodization. (Materials and methods) Monographs, legal acts, collected works and publications of outstanding scientists were studied using chronological, genetic and periodization methods of historical research (Results and discussion) The proposed periodization integrates previous historical ideas and hypotheses. The chemization of Russian agriculture has more than 250 years of history, which can be divided into 6 stages: preparatory (prehistory of chemization, which has three sub-stages), formative, extensive, stabilization, intensive and decentralized. The starting point is a publication of work «On lands fertilization» by A.T. Bolotov in 1770. Currently, the prerequisites for a new stage in the development of chemization are being formed, and it main attributes are digitalization, mechanization and biologization in the highest degree. (Conclusions) The proposed approach to structuring the history of Russian agriculture chemization is useful both for researchers and for training organization. The presence of clear guidelines increases the effectiveness of studying the historical aspects of agriculture, science and technology, which are so necessary for the professional and personal development of future agronomists and engineers.

The paper shows that the efficiency of the machine and tractor fleet is significantly influenced by operating conditions. It is known that the harsher the operating conditions, particularly those related to climate, the higher the frequency of failures, which, in turn, results in the reduced durability and efficiency of the equipment. One way to mitigate failures and power losses in the motor-transmission unit, as well as improve fuel efficiency, is by utilizing the waste heat from the internal combustion engine. This approach ensures an optimal temperature in the main units of the machinery at negative ambient temperatures. (Research purpose) The research aims to develop a technological scheme for utilizing waste heat from the internal combustion engine, specifically the heat from exhaust gases, to maintain the optimal temperature in the main units of the machine and tractor unit. (Materials and methods) The potential for using exhaust gas heat in the proposed scheme was studied and assessed using an experimental setup. The results were processed using the exergy research method. (Results and discussion) It is found that the power of the exhaust gas heat fl w at various engine operating modes provides favorable conditions for its utilization in the proposed scheme. Based on the research results, a system for maintaining a set temperature regime in the main units and trailer unit of a self-propelled machine was developed and patented. (Conclusions) The presence of significant kinetic and thermal energy in the exhaust gases enables its secondary use. A technological scheme for utilizing the heat of exhaust gases from internal combustion engines has been developed as a system for maintaining a set temperature regime in the main units and trailer unit of a self-propelled machine. The application of the developed system will maximize the utilization coefficient of the heat released during fuel combustion in the engine.

The paper states that the conditions of curvilinear motion of agricultural mobile power vehicle signifiantly depend on the operating modes of highly elastic tires. Describing and modeling this process will improve the operational performance of mobile power vehicle at the research and design stages. (Research purpose) The research aims to assess the impact of ultralow-pressure tire parameters on the directional stability of the mobile power vehicle during curvilinear motion. (Materials and methods) The paper analyzes the motion of a mobile power vehicle on the headland at various speeds and internal tire pressure, considering changes in the mass of the operational material in the tank. The characteristics of the lateral slip of ultra-low-pressure tires are presented dependent on the empirical determination of the tire slip angle under laboratory conditions. (Results and discussion) The research resulted in obtaining dependences that describe the change in the lateral displacement of the center of mass in the mobile power vehicle at different air pressures in the front and rear axle tires. The mathematical modeling results are compared with the field experiment outcomes. The analysis of the curvilinear motion characteristics of the mobile power vehicle indicates a change in the steerability when the volume of operational fluid in the tank varies. The application of a decentralized tire pressure control system, which adjusts based on the wheel load, achieves understeer of the mobile power vehicle across the entire range of operating speeds. Additionally, the maximum deviation from the planned trajectory of movement on the headland does not exceed 8.5 percent. (Conclusions) It is established that the proposed model of the curvilinear motion for the mobile power vehicle, which considers the dependence of the lateral slip of ultralow-pressure tires on tire air pressure and acting forces, allows for obtaining a highly accurate turning trajectory.

The natural shift towards a new agricultural strategy targeting at the rational use of available natural resources is marked by more economical soil cultivation methods. Innovative trends in crop production include, among other practices, the partial or complete elimination of moldboard plowing, the avoidance of vertical mixing of the arable layer, minimal soil disturbance by agricultural machinery, and a reduction in soil degradation and erosion. (Research purpose) The paper explores the application of technological approaches, processes, and technical systems developed in accordance with contemporary concepts of production processes in crop cultivation. (Materials and methods) The development of soil cultivation technologies is associated with the shift from extensive agriculture to natural resource management systems that leverage natural or nature-mimicking processes, resulting in lower entropy production than technogenic methods. New approaches, such as no-till systems, should be based on the concept of symbiosis between plants and soil microorganisms, and their interaction with environmental conditions and factors. (Results and discussion) To ensure optimal conditions for the preservation and development of biocenoses within the root-occupied soil layers, it is proposed to use submersible pneumatic hydrodrills capable of subsoil processing, loosening, and aeration through compressed air pulses. This process is followed by irrigation, fertilizer application and hydrogel integration. The most promising and appropriate agricultural technologies, technical systems and tools are those that maximize the genetic potential of plant productivity and facilitate the interaction between biomachine systems and natural processes. These approaches aim to achieve the highest and most rational synergistic effect. (Conclusions) In accordance with modern concepts in crop cultivation, technological processes and technical systems have been developed and substantiated based on the concept of symbiosis between plants and soil microorganisms. These systems utilize subsoil processing, loosening, and aeration through pulses of compressed air.

In mathematical models of the separation process in a gravity column, the coefficient of bar vibration is frequently disregarded as seeds and impurities move along the curved surface of the gravity column, which, in turn, affects the quality of separation. It is important to note that the vibration coefficient directly depends on the design parameters of the comb bars in the gravity column. (Research purpose) The research aims to experimentally validate the theoretical findings from a probabilistic mathematical model elucidating the process of soybean seed separation within a gravity column. (Materials and methods) For laboratory research, a gravity column prototype with a single comb was developed. Parameters such as the effective length of the comb bars, the cross-sectional diameter of the bar, and the comb angle inclination were determined. (Results and discussion) It was found out that, under the condition of self-cleaning combs, the separation coefficient μ = 3.6 meters to the power of negative one. During bar vibration, the functions of the bending moment with vertical coefficients a = –30, b = –31.9, and horizontal coefficients a ̃= – 0.58, b ̃= –1.47 Pascal to the power of negative one per meter to the power of negative one, yield a fairly high statistical correlation between the developed mathematical model and experimental values (coefficient of determination 0.96). The effective length of the bars was determined to be within the range from 125 to 150 millimeters of the comb, with a cross-sectional diameter of the bars measuring 1.5 millimeters. (Conclusions) Experimental validation of the probabilistic mathematical model regarding the process of soybean seed separation in the gravity column was conducted. Further ways to intensify the separation process are aimed at finding a new design solution for the shape of the comb bars.

The paper highlights the benefits of using seed tape planting technology, which include reduced seeding rate, optimized application of fertilizers and chemicals, and the ability to quickly switch between different crops or seed varieties. This technology shows positive effects on nearly all agricultural crops. (Research purpose) The study aims to explore the history of the emergence and application of seed tapes (seed ropes) for planting, detailing their design features and production technologies. (Materials and methods) The research employs a historical-analytical method, examining scientific publications, patent databases, such as Espacenet and the Federal Institute of Industrial Property, as well as photographic materials. (Results and discussion) The paper provides information on the origin of the first seed carriers which were flexible holding strips of paper or similar material that enclosed seeds. It covers the development and advancement of this planting technology, highlighting the use of currently most popular seed tapes. Universal or combined tapes and twisted seed strands can serve as carriers of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other substances in various combinations, in addition to seeds themselves. The paper reviews inventions related to the types and manufacturing methods of seed tapes and seed ropes proposed in different countries from 1898 to 2023. (Conclusions) The differences between seed tapes and seed ropes primarily lie in the mechanization of their production. The seed carrier can be made from various biodegradable materials, such as paper, plant fiber cloth, polymers or others. When manufacturing these tapes, it is necessary to minimize seed damage. The present research results in the formulation of principles for selecting biodegradable polymeric materials for seed tape planting technology. These principles include high diffusion rates, swelling properties, and maintaining a balance between tape biodegradation and biochemical reactions in plant cells.

The paper outlines the potential applications of unmanned aerial vehicles for the delivery of pesticides and agrochemicals. It addresses key challenges in implementing UAV technology, particularly the development and use of accurate modeling tools for predicting application processes and indicators. Additionally, the paper discusses the unique aspects of research conducted in this field. (Research purpose) The study aims to develop and test application software for numerical modeling of the processes and indicators involved in protective spraying of agricultural targets using multicopters. (Materials and methods) The paper integrates scientific and technical information, experimental data, system analysis methods, applied statistics, mathematical modeling of physical objects and processes, and solutions to differential and integral equations. These tools are used to describe the processes, building on previously developed methodological approaches for studying the aerial distribution of substances. (Results and discussion) A software package for modeling the processes and parameters of spraying by multicopters has been developed, with its detailed functional block diagram provided. The paper illustrates the implementation features of the system’s main blocks and modules, including modeling the inductive wave of a multicopter, droplet deposition, working fluid application indicators and fullarea coverage. The adequacy, reliability, and acceptable accuracy of the modeling results are validated through comparison with experimental data. The paper presents the results of correlation and multiple regression analyses obtained through multivariate numerical modeling, using the DJI Agras T20 hexacopter as an example for protective spraying. (Conclusions) The paper confirms the functionality and potential of the developed and tested computational and software system for numerical modeling of protective spraying. This system is designed to address both scientific and practical challenges related to the implementation of multicopters in agricultural production. The study identifies qualitative and quantitative relationships between individual parameters and target indicators of protective spraying from multicopters. Additionally, significant multi-parameter power regressions are determined for assessing the target indicators of spraying.

The global rise in average environmental temperatures is associated with the emission of greenhouse gases due to human economic activities, including crop production. Current findings indicate the absence of a systematic approach and tools for a comprehensive assessment of greenhouse gas emissions from crop production. (Research purpose) The study aims to develop mathematical models and methods to assess greenhouse gas emissions in agricultural production. (Materials and methods) The work was carried out based on the analysis of published data from both domestic and international researchers. (Results and discussion) The research validates a set of indicators for assessing the level of greenhouse gas emissions during agricultural production. The novelty of the methodology involves the integration of numerous indicators and parameters of the greenhouse gas emission process, taking into account stochastic disturbances in the emission process. Factors such as soil tillage methods, fuel consumption per unit of work performed, the dose, method and ratio of applied fertilizers, content of plant residues and soil texture, as well as other variables, are considered as stochastic factors. Unlike the methodology outlined in the 2006 IPCC Guidelines (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) for calculating greenhouse gas emissions from crop production, the developed methodology addresses more complex scenarios associated with processes containing simultaneously the elements that are both continuous and discrete in nature. As an example, the paper presents calculations for estimating greenhouse gas emissions from potato cultivation using the proposed methodology. (Conclusions) The calculated probability coefficient, with a value exceeding 2.21, indicates that the technology used does not meet environmental standards. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is necessary to develop technical and technological solutions that optimize the indicators utilized in this methodology.

The paper highlights that integrating distributed power generation facilities into power supply systems for rural consumer with voltage up to 1000 volts leads to the challenges in managing the confguration of the associated electrical grids. To manage the configuration of power supply systems for rural consumers with voltage up to 1000 volts, it is proposed to use multicontact switching systems. However, there are currently no established methods or criteria for determining optimal locations for multi-contact switching systems in power supply systems for rural consumers with voltage up to 1000 volts that include distributed generation facilities. (Research purpose) The study aims to develop a method for determining the optimal placement of multicontact switching systems in rural electrical grids with voltage up to 1000 volts that include distributed generation facilities. (Materials and methods) An analysis is conducted to evaluate the implementation of configuration management devices in the examined power supply systems. The study explores the impact of installing multi-contact switching systems and identifies the main types of damage caused by power supply interruptions for agricultural consumers. Additionally, a method was developed to determine the optimal placement of multi-contact switching systems. (Results and discussion) The paper demonstrates the practical application of the developed methodology through a case study on the reconstruction of a rural electrical grid with distributed generation facilities. Among the proposed options, the optimal location for placing multi-contact switching systems was selected. (Conclusions) The installation of multi-contact switching systems helps mitigate damage from power interruptions for rural consumers. The choice of optimal locations for multi-contact switching systems is influenced by various factors, any of which can be decisive, depending on the specific circumstances. The developed methodology enables a comprehensive evaluation of all relevant factors, allowing for the most appropriate choice to maximize the overall efficiency of the power supply system. Using the proposed methodology to determine the optimal location for multi-contact switching systems results in a 55 percents damage reduction in the rural electrical grid caused by power outages.

The paper highlights that the development of the forage base relies on crop cultivation technologies that ensure high productivity, meet the domestic market’s demand for high-quality feed, reduce labor costs and increase energy efficiency in feed preparation and storage. (Research purpose) The paper aims to conduct a comparative assessment of the technical and economic indicators of traditional, intensive, and high technologies, as well as machine complexes, for forage crop production. (Materials and methods) The study is based on scientific publications from 2011 to 2022 that focus on the improvement of natural lands for forage crop production, as well as on analytical and information materials, and other available sources. For a comprehensive technical and economic assessment of traditional, intensive and high-intensity technologies, as well as machine complexes used in forage crop production, the following indicators are selected: labor costs, fuel consumption, metal usage, and specific energy consumption. (Results and discussion) The study is conducted using the VIM methodology. A classifier of agricultural technologies is proposed to assess the technical and economic indicators of various types of agricultural machinery. The study results in the development of technological schemes for the reclamation of overgrown lands, the radical and surface improvement of herbage species composition and the radical improvement of herbage species composition in cultivated and natural forage lands. Additionally, the efficiency coefficient of energy consumption for the compared technologies across different soil and climatic zones are calculated. (Conclusions) A comparative analysis of the technical and economic indicators of machine complexes, including both traditional and advanced multifunctional systems, enables the recommendation of optimal solutions for forage production based on land productivity. The most resource-efficient option for producing a unit of output is achieved through the implementation of high technologies for improving forage lands.