The paper examines the issue of excess surface moisture on seeds following pre-sowing moistening; which complicates mechanical sowing. Experimental and exploratory studies indicate that this excess moisture can be effectively removed when seeds contact a moisture-absorbing surface. (Research purpose) The study aims to provide an experimental and mathematical evaluation of the potential for removing excess surface moisture from seeds upon contact with a moisture-absorbing surface. (Material and methods) The pressing force of the caryopsis against the conveyor surface was simulated using a flat-tipped dynamometer with a force application increment of 2.5 newtons. The caryopsis was pressed against a felt fabric soaked with a dye solution. The mathematical modeling of the surface moisture removal process involved evaluating the potential for the caryopsis to roll across the surface. (Results and discussion) It was found that a randomly selected barley caryopsis with semi-axis dimensions of a = 0.001845 meters and b = 0.00146 meters in the cross-section does not achieve complete rolling but rotates by 58 degrees. At the same time; a minimum applied force of 2.5 newtons in the plane of the longitudinal section on a caryopsis with semi-axes a = 0.001845 meters and c = 0.00396 meters produces a pressing force of 0.11 newtons per square millimeter. Considering the depth of the caryopsis’s immersion in the moisture-absorbing surface and its 58-degree rotation; sufficient contact is established to remove excess surface moisture. However; in specific cases where one of the longitudinal section planes of the caryopsis has a shape approaching a diamond; the contact is incomplete. Increasing the pressing force to 0.19 newtons per square millimeter did not yield the desired effect; since the caryopsis; overcoming the resistance of the moisture-absorbing surface; made contact with the support plate. The solution was to increase the thickness of the moisture-absorbing surface to approximately half the thickness of the caryopsis. In this case; the largest contact area is ensured. (Conclusions) Experimental and mathematical evaluations established that excess surface moisture can be effectively removed from caryopses when they contact a moisture-absorbing surface with a thickness approximately half that of the caryopsis; under a pressing force of around 0.19 newtons per square millimeter.

One of the primary factors contributing to the increasing anthropogenic impact on the environment is the intensification of agricultural production; particularly the expansion of enterprises engaged in crop production. One of the approaches to mitigating environmental risks is a partial transition to organic farming. However; the sustainable development of organic production in the Russian Federation requires the establishment of a knowledge-intensive environment that integrates the latest advancements in biological; engineering; and digital sciences to develop innovative methods for designing organic crop production technologies. (Research purpose) To conduct theoretical studies aimed at developing methods for designing machine technologies applicable to organic crop production. (Materials and methods) An analysis of previously developed design methods was conducted to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Based on this analysis; the classical Waterfall model - a sequential design approach - was identified as a rational choice for interpretation. (Results and discussion) At the initial stage of implementing the Waterfall model; a block diagram was developed to outline the general algorithm for designing machine technologies applicable in organic crop production. The first phase of this algorithm involves analyzing soil-climatic and economic conditions. Once these conditions are assessed; production resources; such as seed material; fertilizer system; and plant protection system; are selected based on key criteria; including environmental safety; product quality; potential yield; and financial costs. This algorithm then proceeds to the selection of the most efficient technological operations and machine-tractor units. This selection is guided by an integrated eco- economic criterion; formulated as the sum of three components: total financial costs per unit of work; economic losses due to nutrient depletion in the arable layer; and economic losses resulting from soil compaction during technological operations. The integrated eco-economic criterion must be optimized to minimize its value for each technological operation. (Conclusions) The developed methods of designing technologies for the organic production of crop make it possible to form a digital system of basic technologies and machines; to develop technological maps for organic cultivation under specific soil; climatic and economic conditions.

The paper highlights the declining market share of Russian vegetable crop seed varieties. This trend is primarily attributed to a lag in technological development and insufficient technical equipment in most Russian seed-originating institutions compared to foreign breeding and seed production centers and companies. (Research purpose) To develop an engineering solution for an innovative technology for obtaining vegetable crop and potato seeds while ensuring the automatic fixation and maintenance of technological parameters and quality indicators during storage. (Materials and methods) To develop an automated control and management system for storing biological objects; it is crucial to determine the key requirements for the electrophysical treatment process; specifically ultraviolet radiation applied to seed material; along with the parameters of its technological modes. (Results and discussion) An experimental setup for electrophysical treatment; designed to improve storage quality indicators; has been developed; manufactured; and is currently undergoing laboratory testing. The automated process control system integrated with an orienting module must ensure the following: adjustment and maintenance of the translational speed of treated products; dynamic modification of the electrophysical treatment mode based on the actual feed rate; the physical and mechanical properties of the bulk material; the technological parameters of tubers; and the operation of the orienting module. The regulated photocurrent intensity of ultraviolet radiation exposure is set and controlled automatically via an onboard computer. (Conclusions) The developed automated control and management system for storing biological objects enables effective regulation of ultraviolet radiation exposure parameters; such as radiation intensity and exposure time. These adjustments depend on the physical and mechanical properties of the product and the technological parameters of the equipment. Various disinfection methods for storage chambers; such as ozonation; gaseous chlorine dioxide treatment; and ultraviolet radiation exposure; effectively reduce microbial spoilage. Research confirms that ultraviolet radiation treatment; when integrated with an automated system for monitoring and controlling technological parameters; significantly improves the storage quality of vegetable crops and potatoes; particularly under elevated temperature conditions.

The paper highlights the necessity of developing new energy-efficient machinery designs to implement minimum tillage technologies effectively. The use of rotary loosening tools for surface soil treatment at seed sowing depth offers several advantages over traditional implements in terms of both energy efficiency and reduced soil impact intensity. (Research purpose) The study aims to determine the distribution patterns of soil pressure on the blades of a rotary soil loosener under simulated loading conditions. (Materials and methods) A simulation-based modeling approach was used to analyze the loading of rotary loosener blades during their interaction with soil. Normal pressure values were measured at different points on the friction surface of the blades as they moved through a circular soil channel. These values were inferred by assessing wear intensity at various blade surface points. To facilitate this; a soft; easily erodible material was applied to the friction surface; and its wear intensity was measured using a magnetic induction method. (Results and discussion) The trajectory of blade movement in soil is described by a trochoidal path equation; while the loosening process itself resembles a «digging» motion. This process consists of two phases: penetration and retraction during which part of the loosened soil is displaced to the field surface. An equation was derived to describe blade movement in the soil as a function of its rotation angle spanning from the start of penetration to the retraction phase. Additionally; a theoretical model was developed to characterize blade loading patterns during soil interaction. Simulated blade loading enabled the measurement of abrasive wear intensity at various points on the friction surface. These measurements facilitated the development of a regression equation that defines the external loading characteristics of the loosener blades. (Conclusions) Soil cutting during loosening with a rotary soil loosener occurs through three cutting edges: the lower blade edge and the two side edges of the blade. This mechanism defines the nature of soil movement along the working surface of the blade. When manufacturing loosening tools; it is essential to ensure high wear resistance of the lower and side edges of the blade through reinforcement techniques.

The paper addresses the increasing demand for plant-based protein in the compound feed industry. It emphasizes the role of grain legumes; particularly soy; one of the most protein-rich crops; as a primary feed protein source. Analytical studies have identified key strategies for developing a universal compound feed production line that integrates high-protein ingredients derived from soybean meal. To enhance protein digestibility and biological value; extruded soybean meal undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis in a continuous horizontal mixer. Additionally; the paper describes material movement within a hydrolytic chamber equipped with a screw-driven working unit. (Research purpose) The primary objective of the study is to conduct a force analysis of material movement in a horizontal screw mixer to determine the optimal structural and operational parameters of the hydrolytic chamber. (Materials and methods) The analysis focuses on the system of forces acting on a material particle resting on the helical surface of a horizontal screw and pressed against the inner wall of the casing. (Results and discussion) By projecting all active and assumed inertial forces acting on a material particle; a system of equations was derived. The study found that the power required to drive the screw shaft depends on multiple factors; including the condition of the screw and casing surfaces; particle mass; screw geometry; polar coordinates defining the particle’s position within the screw; and the kinematic parameters of its rotational motion. (Conclusions) The developed mathematical model of material movement; which accounts for the physical and mechanical properties of the material and the geometry of its flow; facilitates the selection of optimal structural and operational parameters for the mixer. This ensures efficient material transport during the design process.

Harvested mung bean grain contains a significant amount of extraneous impurities; including small and unripe grains. Therefore; the grain must be cleaned and sorted by size. The developed cylindrical sorting sieve with a screw distributor inside must be equipped with a metering unit to ensure that the raw material from the hopper is fed into the sorting process in accordance with the sieve’s operating mode. (Research purpose) To develop theoretical foundations for synchronizing the operating modes of a paddle-type metering unit and a sorting sieve for removing weed impurities and fractionating harvested mung bean grains. (Materials and methods) The feeding of bulk material by the metering unit is always batchwise. The screw distributor installed inside the sorting sieve also operates in a batch mode. Based on this principle; their synchronization is necessary. (Results and discussion) The main performance characteristics of the paddle-type metering unit are throughput capacity and fill factor. It was established that the fill factor of the metering unit can be considered equal to its maximum possible value; which is determined by its design parameters; since the sorting sieve operates at a low rotational speed. For synchronised operation of the metering unit and the sorting sieve; their throughput capacities must be equal; and their rotational speeds must be multiples of each other. A high multiplicity ratio of the metering unit’s rotational speed to that of the cylindrical sieve sorter with a screw distributor requires an increase in the metering unit’s speed; which leads to higher energy consumption and potential damage to the dosed material. As the number of blades in the metering unit increases; the required rotational speed decreases. A metering unit rotational speed of 6 rpm corresponds to an outer radius of 59.6 mm; while a speed of 4 rpm corresponds to a radius of 71.9 mm. In the first case; for synchronization of the metering unit with the sorting sieve; the multiplicity ratio must be 3; and in the second case; it must be 2. The actual values of the outer radius of the metering unit will be determined based on the results of experimental studies to ensure proper synchronization. (Conclusions) For efficient cleaning and sorting of mung bean grains harvested by a combine; the cylindrical sorting sieve must be equipped with a metering unit that delivers the raw material from the hopper in accordance with the sieve’s operating mode. The batch operation of both the sorting sieve with an internal screw distributor and the blade-type metering unit enables their synchronization. To reduce energy consumption and minimize grain damage; lower multiplicity ratios between the metering unit and the cylindrical sorting sieve should be maintained.

Cassette-type selection seeders equipped with portion cone-type sowing devices are typically used in sowing technology at the second stage of selection; variety testing; and primary seed production of cereals; grain legumes; and other crops. (Research purpose) To review existing selection seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis used at the second stage of operations with cassette loading devices and to propose an improved selection seeder integrating robotic automation for the precise feeding of cereal; grain legume; and other crop seeds to the batch sowing mechanism. (Materials and methods) A brief review of cassette seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis was conducted. The structural and technological parameters were justified; leading to the development of a selection seeder for the second stage of selection trials. This seeder incorporates a robotic cassette loading device and was designed in compliance with GOST R 60.0.0.4-2023/ISO 8373:2021 and OST 46 73-78. Laboratory tests were carried out on an experimental prototype of the seeder equipped with a robotic cassette loading device. (Results and discussion) The study identified key structural features of cassette-type selection seeders mounted on self-propelled chassis; particularly the SKS-6-10 and SSSE-6 models. A technical solution was proposed to automate the cassette loading process in selection seeders; reducing the need for manual labor. A new device design was developed; incorporating cassette blocks with sowing material arranged on a rotating platform; while cassette movement to the sowing mechanisms is facilitated by an actuator. Additionally a diagram and an operational algorithm for the robotic carousel-type cassette loading device are presented. (Conclusions) Replacing the conventional cassette loading device in a cassette-type selection seeder with a robotic carousel-type cassette loading device can increase sowing productivity by up to 20% per hour of shift time and reduce the labor intensity.

In energy-saving technologies for cereal crop cultivation; the soil preparation and sowing stages are the most critical. Therefore; improving the efficiency of sowing machines is a pressing task. (Research purpose)To develop a physical prototype of a seeder with a significantly simplified design compared to existing analogues. The proposed design aims to reduce metal consumption; enhance manufacturability; and ensure optimal conditions for crop growth. (Materials and methods) The design of the electronic model (digital twin) of the seeder and its physical prototype were developed using system analysis methods; mathematical modeling; and experimental planning. Experiments were conducted in both field and laboratory conditions using certified equipment. (Results and discussion) The seeder contains a seed hopper mounted on a frame; equipped with sowing devices and seed tubes. Seeds are supplied through hollow rotating shafts of spherical cutting discs. These discs are mounted on a frame with their concave part facing the soil surface. At the same time the cutting discs are positioned at an angle relative to both the soil and the direction of movement with the possibility of adjusting the angle of inclination between 0 to 90 degrees. In one row; the inclination of the discs is the same; and in the adjacent row; the inclination is reversed. Additionally; the cutting discs in the second row are positioned perpendicularly relative to those in the first row. The cutting discs in the third row are offset relative to the discs in the first and second rows in a perpendicular direction at varying intervals. This arrangement ensures complete soil coverage; preventing untreated gaps. Behind the third row of discs; loosening elements are installed in the form of vertical spherical discs with alternating teeth and grooves along the cutting edge. These elements are positioned on the left and right sides relative to seeder’s movement and arranged in pairs above each cutting disc; with opposite attack angles. (Conclusions) The proposed solution for the seeder simplifies its design and reduces metal consumption; enabling the use of smaller class tractors for high-speed continuous sowing of cereals; legumes; oilseeds; and perennial grasses.

The paper emphasizes the importance of considering the dependence of soil tensile resistance on the relative moisture content when using flat-cutting working tools. Additionally; it highlights the dependence of soil tensile resistance on rhombic cross-section blades and the number of cutting planes. This study focuses on examining the effect of the blade sharpening angle on the specific cutting resistance of the fertile soil layer. (Research purpose) To study the soil layer destruction process using flat­cutting working bodies. (Materials and methods) A new soil-tillage tool was developed and subjected to preliminary theoretical analysis. The experimental methodology focuses on measuring only the vertical component of the soil layer’s pressure acting on the working tool. Theoretical analysis demonstrates that the side brackets supporting the blade move along pre-designed guides. (Results and discussion) The research novelty lies in establishing relationships that describe the dependence between the parameters and operating modes of the new working body during its interaction with the soil. A method for the engineering calculation of the working body’s interaction with surfaces has been proposed. The findings indicate that; in heavy loam; the lowest resistance is achieved with a tine on the working organ width of 5 centimeters and a length of 7 centimeters when the ratio of the tine width to the distance between the tines is 2-3.5. (Conclusions) It has been established that the tine length should be approximately equal to the distance between the tines. The study also highlights the impact of sharpening on the technical condition of working bodies and the overall productivity of the tool. Analytical data indicate that for blades with a large cutting width; increasing the cutting depth is more effective in reducing specific cutting resistance.

A literature review revealed that the distribution of air flows and indoor temperatures is influenced by several key factors; including building design; external climatic conditions; internal heat sources; and ventilation system operation. It was demonstrated that livestock buildings exhibit a temperature gradient along the room height; which can reach 6 degrees Celsius or more. An assessment of potential air temperature variations at different heights across various types of livestock facilities was conducted. It has been found that the use of ceiling fans enables a more uniform distribution of air; ensures the standard airflow velocity in the working area; and helps to reduce the concentration of harmful gases and microorganisms in animal zones. (Research purpose) The study aims to develop recommendations for selecting ceiling fans in agricultural premises to equalize air temperature at different heights and ensure uniform distribution of supply air; while maintaining regulated air flow velocity in animal housing areas. (Materials and methods) Various approaches and models for describing the propagation of compact jets and supply air jets from axial ceiling fans were analyzed. (Results and discussion) The range of possible variations in the ceiling fan performance was determined ensuring the normative air velocity in the animal zone; depending on suspension height and blade diameter. General analytical expressions were presented for modeling the propagation of both free and confined compact air jets. Additionally; the behavior of confined compact air jets in buildings with typical height characteristics was analyzed. (Conclusions) The obtained analytical expression defines the relationship between ceiling fan parameters and air flow characteristics; considering the regulated air flow velocity in the working zone. Calculated dependencies and recommendations were provided for determining the optimal number of ceiling fans needed to equalize the air temperature along the room height.

Tractors K-700A and K-701 of the Kirovets family manufactured by Kirovsky Zavod have been used in agriculture for more than fifty years and their effective operation would have been impossible without the established repair and maintenance base; vast regulatory and technical documentation; equipment for maintenance and repair. (Research purpose) The research purpose is analyzing the development and production experience of the Virgin Land Branch of GOSNITI to improve the efficiency of servicing high-power tractors obtained during the creation of the repair and maintenance base of tractors K-700A and K-701. (Materials and methods) Conducted an analysis of the developed regulatory and technical documentation and equipment for the organization of repairs. The repair and maintenance base for Kirovets tractors created on their basis made it possible to ensure the required level of readiness and maintain reliability indicators. (Results and discussion) It was shown that the created repair and maintenance base corresponded to the needs of the time and provided high technical and economic performance indicators in accordance with the current GOST. The time and material resources spent on the search for causal relationships between the parameters and operating conditions of tractors affecting operational reliability; depending on the operating conditions; the completeness of routine maintenance work carried out; the quality assessment of repairs carried out; the input quality control of new and refurbished spare parts; were significantly reduced. (Conclusions) The experience of the Virgin Land Branch of GOSNITI has shown that an integrated state approach to the implementation of large projects proves its economic efficiency; which amounted to 1.5-4.4 rubles of profit per ruble of state investment in the 1980s. The result of this approach was the development of more than 75 results of development work and their serial or individual implementation; which made it possible to improve the repair and maintenance base for more than 100;000 repairs per year; which is currently of particular relevance for ensuring food security of the Russian Federation.

Aerial photography has become an essential tool in agriculture; allowing farmers and agronomists to monitor the condition of agricultural land in real time. (Research purpose) This study aims to conduct a retrospective analysis of the evolution of aerial photography technology in agriculture; establish a chronological framework for its development; and provide a comprehensive overview of its advancements. (Materials and methods) A systematic literature review was conducted using a historical-analytical approach. The analysis included original works by both domestic and international authors; including monographs; scientific journals; conference proceedings; museum exhibits; photographic materials; and publicly available software source codes. (Results and discussion) Four key stages in the development of aerial photography equipment were identified based on advancements in camera technology and the aerial platforms on which they were mounted. A comparative analysis of aerial photography devices was conducted; tracing the evolution from wet collodion plate cameras to modern digital aerial cameras mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). (Conclusions) The development of aerial photography equipment for agricultural land mapping has progressed in leaps rather than through gradual increments. Currently; UAVs equipped with visible-spectrum and multispectral cameras are the most relevant for agricultural applications. Future advancements in digital aerial photography cameras will focus on improving spatial resolution; hybridization; and intelligent functionalities.

In recent years; various types of agricultural machinery; particularly Chinese-manufactured tractors; have entered the Russian market. Assessing their operational properties requires statistical data on reliability; theoretical and field studies; as well as certification tests conducted at state machine-testing stations. (Research purpose) To analyze the Russian agricultural machinery market; including Chinese manufacturers; and assess the technical; economic; and operational properties of tractors based on engine speed characteristics; to evaluate the impact of the wheel contact area on traction tangential force and overall traction performance. (Materials and methods) Building on previous theoretical studies; a comparative analysis of the operational properties of Chinese- and Belarusian-manufactured tractors was conducted. Field tests were carried out to evaluate the operational properties of the Belarus 2122.3 and Zoomlion PL2304 tractors; in combination with the IMT 616.16 cultivator. The research employed a combination of computational; structural-design; and economic-mathematical methods; as well as comparison; measurement; and descriptive techniques. (Results and discussion) The operational characteristics of the tractor-implement units and the influence of engine speed characteristics on their performance were determined. Additionally; the effect of wheel size on the realization of tractor tractive properties was examined. Comparative calculations provided insights into tractor efficiency. (Conclusions) The technical and economic indicators of the Zoomlion PL2304 tractor; such as operating weight; engine power; energy saturation; ballast weight; specific fuel consumption; and gearbox working range; contribute to the more efficient utilization of key operational properties; particularly productivity and fuel consumption.

This paper emphasizes the challenges associated with mechanizing and ensuring quality control in the process of sowing seeds using seed tapes (seed ropes). Each examined invention integrates design and technological solutions developed to improve efficiency and effectiveness. (Research purpose) The study aims to examine the development and evolution of aggregated seed tape planters; focusing on their structural features; and component base. (Materials and methods) The study employs a historical-analytical approach drawing on publications from scientific print sources; patent documents from databases such as Espacenet; the Federal Institute of Industrial Property; the Database of Patents of the USSR; and photographic materials. (Results and discussion) The study provides information on the development of the first devices designed for seed tape sowing. It identifies typical design solutions for seed tape sowing technology across different countries. (Conclusions) A review of existing inventions has been conducted; leading to the identification of several promising design and technological solutions for the development of new machines in this category. Specifically; the study highlights the employment of tape-guiding elements that reduce tape breakage and seed damage; as well as tape break detection and tension control systems. It also emphasizes the versatility of the tape-guiding system; which accommodates tapes of different types and sizes. Additionally; the study highlights the incorporation of soil-cultivating units; a disc-anchor coulter for creating an even and compacted seed bed for the seed tape; and a localized irrigation system to accelerate seed germination and facilitate the biodegradation of the tape carrier.