Potato and onion sorting is a key technological stage in their production process. Minimizing tuber damage is a key criterion for evaluating the efficiency of sorting machines equipped with elastic coatings on their working surfaces designed to reduce impact loads. (Research purpose) The study aims to conduct kinematic and dynamic analysis of the drive mechanism of the Tolsma sorting machine’s working unit to assess its performance under the operating conditions of the AGROVER potato production cluster (Tashkent region, Republic of Uzbekistan). (Materials and methods) The methodology focuses on evaluating inertial loads which are critical to minimizing tuber damage during sorting, aligning with the broader goal of improving the machine efficiency. (Results and discussion) A graphic analysis was conducted to examine the vertical force acting on tubers during screen oscillation. The results show that the direction of this force closely aligns with gravity, leading to tuber clogging within the holes of the working surface. The minimal repulsive forces fail to ensure efficient produce movement, increasing the risk of damage due to elastic coating deformation and the oval shape of the tubers, which act as wedges. Eeven additional mechanisms do not fully resolve the problems of reduced productivity and tuber damage associated with inertial loads and screen geometry. (Conclusions) The findings support the results of kinematic and dynamic modeling. Inertial forces generated by the accelerated movement of the screens critically affect tubers-surfaces interaction, necessitating machine parameters optimization.

The paper demonstrates that positioning an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in controlled agricultural environments is possible without reliance on satellite navigation. Modifications to the standard flight controller software, specifically, the integration of modules for processing and decoding data from a video stream sensor and a laser rangefinder, ensures high accuracy in determining coordinates both in height and in plan. (Research purpose) The study aims to determine the positioning accuracy parameters of a UAV when using a video stream sensor and a laser rangefinder as primary instruments for coordinate calculation. (Materials and methods) Data from the Optical Flow & LIDAR Sensor 3901-L0X, transmitted to the UAV flight controller via the debugger port, were analyzed. The Canny detector and Gaussian filter were applied to extract precise contours of high-contrast objects on a horizontal plane and to compute the coordinates of multiple points in the processed video stream. The scaling factor of these coordinates was determined based on laser rangefinder measurements. Methods of mathematical statistics were used to process the research data and calculate errors in determining positioning coordinates. (Results and discussion) The findings indicate that combining data from the video stream sensor with height measurements from the laser rangefinder yields high accuracy and enables aerial imaging of agricultural biological objects in greenhouse environments. (Conclusions) The study determined that the software for processing video stream and laser rangefinder data enables aerial imaging in greenhouse environments, achieving UAV spatial coordinate calculation accuracy exceeding 95 percent.

The paper highlights that the diverse natural conditions for flax cultivation and harvesting across different regions of the country require improvements in the reliability of both serially produced and newly developed machinery for the flax industry. (Research purpose) The study aims to develop a methodology to increase the durability of flax harvesters through the design both new and standardized components, with the goal of extending machine service life by a factor of 1.5. (Materials and methods) Reliability indicators at the first stage of machine creation were determined by calculations, reliability indicators of serial machines were determined on the basis of operational tests and surveys in farms, as well as during accelerated bench tests of individual components and machines as a whole. (Results and discussion) The results show that the presented calculations effectively support the performance evaluation of flax harvesters using a generalized load mode. It is demonstrated that standardizing the operating modes of mechanisms eliminates the need for lengthy static (statistical) field tests and enables prediction of component durability. Furthermore, regulating these operating modes creates the foundation not only for improving the reliability of service life estimates but also for programming accelerated bench tests and the prediction of drive component durability. (Conclusions) The proposed methodology can be recommended for addressing durability challenges in the components and assemblies of flax harvesters. The study confirms the need for developing a wear-resistance improvement strategy based on the formalization of accumulated knowledge using modern tools and engineering techniques. The provided examples demonstrate that developing new components, specifically the stripping mechanism and the pickup drum, and introducing standardized units can increase machine durability by a factor of 1.5.

The paper highlights that air (aspiration) separation of meal particles by density and size using an air flow is the most efficient and economically viable method for removing husks from protein in sunflower meal. Reducing husk content and increasing protein concentration enhances the feed value and broadens the application scope of the meal, particularly in highyield livestock farming. (Research purpose) The study aims to improve the efficiency of protein fraction extraction during the purification of sunflower meal in a vertical pneumatic channel equipped with battery-type and column-type air accelerators, as well as input flow deflectors. (Materials and methods) The research was conducted at the Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM using a model of a pneumatic separation channel. The column-type and battery-type air accelerators ensured uniform airflow distribution across the input material layer, improving separation efficiency and enhancing the precision of input material separation. (Results and discussion) The developed model of the vertical pneumatic channel provides a protein yield of at least 75 percent and an impurity removal rate of no less than 70 percent. (Conclusions) The live cross-section coefficient of the accelerator in the model pneumatic channel should be maintained at 50–60 percent, and the height of the battery-type accelerator should range from 55 to 75 millimeters. The recommended installation height of the battery-type accelerator above the input flow deflectors is between 160 and 220 millimeters. The optimal specific load of the processed material is up to 2.0 kilograms per cubic centimeter per hour. At a machine throughput of up to 2 tons per hour, the protein content in the raw material ranges from 35 to 40 percent.

The paper highlights that existing steam cultivators do not always meet the quality requirements for the technological process of surface tillage, particularly when equipped with sweep shares. The performance of steam cultivator working bodies can be improved through a fundamental redesign involving the complete elimination of sweep shares. (Research purpose) The study aims to determine the optimal arrangement of working bodies on the frame of a steam cultivator. (Materials and methods) The proposed design of the new working element, excluding sweep shares, consists of a shank with a chisel and consecutively mounted left- and right-sided flat cutters. (Results and discussion) The study identified three distinct soil conditions affecting the draft resistance of the steam cultivator’s working element: solid –without loosened soil on the sides; semi-solid – with loosened soil on one side; and free – with loosened soil on both sides. It was established that most efficient arrangement of an even number of working bodies on the cultivator frame is a two-row configuration with adjustable working width. In this arrangement, half of the working bodies operate under solid conditions, one operates under semi-solid conditions, and the rest operate under free conditions, which ensure the lowest draft resistance. (Conclusions) The calculations yielded the following optimal parameters for arrangement of working bodies on the steam cultivator frame: a two-row arrangement with an even number of working bodies; a total of 6 working bodies; a machine working width of 3 meters; a longitudinal spacing between working bodies of 52–54 centimeters ; and a transverse spacing of 48–50 centimeters.

The study investigates the displacement of the soil layer under different plowing methods. A distinct effect of longitudinal displacement during layer inversion was identified. (Research purpose) To examine the kinematics of the longitudinal displacement of the soil layer under different inversion methods (into its own furrow and into the adjacent furrow) and to provide a quantitative assessment of this phenomenon. (Materials and methods) The phenomenon of longitudinal displacement was discovered during a kinematic study of physical soil layer models. For the experiments, a plastic model of a soil layer was constructed with dimensions of 1 centimeter in thickness, 2 centimeters in width, and 7.5 centimeters in length. The layer was subjected to a 180° twist over a distance of 5 centimeters. This displacement can be attributed to the elevation of the model’s center of gravity above the furrow bottom during inversion, which occurs twice due to the sequential shift of the layer’s supporting edges. As a result, the central line of the model becomes curved. (Results and discussion) The projection of the curved line onto the plane of the furrow bottom is always shorter than the actual length of the line itself. As a result, unless the layer is forcibly stretched, it inevitably undergoes longitudinal displacement toward the clamped end. The study established relationships that make it possible to determine the magnitude of this displacement, as well as the velocity and acceleration of the soil layer’s cross-section during inversion, based on the kinematic parameters of the layer. (Conclusions) The magnitude of the soil layer’s longitudinal displacement is directly proportional to its thickness and is influenced by the stability and twisting coefficients.

Hyperspectral analysis is a non-invasive method that reduces losses and improves fruit quality by accurately identifying defects during sorting. A key requirement for obtaining reliable data is stable, uniform illumination provided by specialized light sources with a controlled spectrum. The integration of such systems into automated production lines minimizes human error, increases productivity, and supports the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. (Research purpose) The study aims to substantiate the selection of parameters for the hyperspectrometer and the light source within the illumination system. (Materials and methods) The optical identification module used in this study consists of stepper motors, rack-and-pinion and screw drives with bearings, and a platform with rubber rollers, the speed of which is regulated by a three-phase motor powered through a frequency converter. The stand suspension can move both horizontally and vertically at a preset speed. SpecGrabber and CubeCreator software was used to collect and process data during scanning, enabling subsequent image analysis using Gelion software. (Results and discussion) A hyperspectrometer was selected for the identification module, and the main light sources for the illumination system were determined. (Conclusions) The calculated luminous flux is 934 watts per square meter, which falls within the sensitivity range of 100–1500 watts per square meter for the Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) detector. This confirms that the camera can capture hyperspectral data under the specified exposure and illumination conditions. It was determined that four halogen lamps should be installed in the illumination module, providing an illuminance level of 3010 lux. At this lighting level, reliable spectral graphs were obtained for both healthy and diseased fruit areas. Additionally, the short exposure time of 2.1 milliseconds per spectrometer frame resulted in a total scanning time of less than 2 seconds.

Improving control accuracy in robotic platforms remains a highly relevant challenge, particularly in the presence of mechanical nonlinearities. One of the most common issues is backlash, which causes deviations from a straight trajectory during motion, and adversely affects the overall stability and precision of the control system. (Research purpose) The objective of this study is to develop a control system for a dual-axis platform with two degrees of mobility that effectively recognizes and compensates for the mechanical backlash effects. To achieve this, a system was designed to ensure stable platform motion while minimizing the impact of backlash on trajectory accuracy. (Materials and methods) A mathematical model of the control system was developed, representing backlash as a hysteresis effect. Several backlash compensation methods were investigated. The implemented control algorithms included linear controllers such as the Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) controller and a phase-shift controller, as well as nonlinear algorithms based on fuzzy logic (Fuzzy Logic Controller). The system model and control algorithms were simulated using MATLAB and the Simulink library. (Results and discussion) Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control methods effectively compensate for mechanical backlash, ensuring more stable and accurate platform motion. The effectiveness of these methods was confirmed under both idealized and real-world operating conditions. (Conclusions) The developed control system significantly improves platform accuracy and stability, broadening its applicability across a wide range of robotic applications.

The primary factor contributing to the increase in anthropogenic impact on the environment is the intensification of agricultural production, driven by substantial investments of material resources and financial capital aimed at increasing output and enhancing the economic efficiency of crop production. As a result, the analysis, assessment, forecasting, and management of the anthropogenic impact of intensive mechanized technologies are becoming priority areas of scientific research. (Research purpose) This study aims to develop a mathematical model for the comprehensive assessment of the negative environmental impact caused by technological processes in agriculture. (Materials and methods) The research is based on the analysis of scientific publications and regulatory documents concerning the environmental impact assessments of technological processes in intensive agricultural systems. Key indicators used for evaluating the environmental impact in agroecosystems include soil pesticide concentration, fertilizer application rate and distribution uniformity, as well as the presence of erosion-prone soil particles. (Results and discussion) A generalized criterion, the probabilistic coefficient ψтр , which tends toward unity, was proposed to assess the degree of negative environmental impact.. A mathematical model was developed to calculate the potential environmental impact of technological processes in crop production. (Conclusions) The results indicate that if the technological processes cause no significant negative impact on the environment, the value of the coefficient is less than or equal to one. If exceeds one, it signals a negative environmental effect and the need for mitigation measures to minimize anthropogenic pressure on the natural environment.

This paper presents a systematic, multidimensional analysis of the historical and engineering evolution in the design of working tools for tillage machines, covering the period from the origins of agriculture to contemporary high-tech solutions. (Research purpose) The study identifies developmental patterns in design approaches, tracing the transition from artisanal production of basic agricultural implements, based on empirical knowledge, to the emergence of scientifically grounded methods of calculation and design, built on the advances in mechanics, materials science, and agrophysics. (Materials and methods) The research demonstrates that the introduction of new materials with improved performance characteristics, combined with the shift toward engineering calculations and virtual modeling (CAD/CAE/CAM), laid the foundation for the transition from universal to adaptive and smart design solutions. (Results and discussion) The study highlights the role of digitalization in improving the reliability, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability of modern tillage machine components. It identifies key differences between the Soviet engineering school and international design methodologies. The paper underscores the contribution of scientific schools and research institutes to the development of soil-cutting theory and draft resistance calculations. Progress in the hardening of working tools is illustrated through the use of thermal and vibrational treatments, surfacing techniques, and coatings based on hard alloys. These technologies are presented not as isolated processes, but as integral components of the broader evolution in engineering design. Contemporary design trends are examined, including the application of digital twin technology, parametric geometry, precision agriculture technologies, and artificial intelligence. The study also addresses issues related to environmental sustainability, climate-adaptive engineering solutions, and sustainable agricultural practices. (Conclusions) The study concludes that an interdisciplinary approach is essential for the effective design of tillage implements, integrating agronomy, mechanical engineering, materials science, and digital technologies.

An important aspect of studying the development of agricultural chemicalization in Russia is the retrospective analysis of the key infrastructural components supporting its scientific and technical development, since the widespread application of chemical agents and methods has always depended on the coordinated activities of numerous diverse organizations. (Research purpose) To conduct a historical and retrospective analysis of the formation and evolution of the infrastructure supporting agricultural chemicalization in Russia. (Materials and methods) Monographs, regulatory documents, and both research and review scientific publications were analyzed using chronological, genetic, and descriptive methods. (Results and discussion) The initial infrastructure of agricultural chemicalization in Russia was shaped by higher education institutions, where the scientific foundations of agrochemistry and plant protection were developed. Over time, specialized research institutes were founded further strengthening the scientific base. A major intermediary between science and practice was the Agrochemical Service, created in 1964. Initially organized as a network of control and consulting laboratories, it evolved into a powerful production system by 1979 but was later fragmented due to nationwide disintegration processes. The Soyuzselkhoztehnika system played a pivotal role in supporting and coordinating the agrochemical service network. A unique management model of chemicalization emerged within the Soviet state framework, enabling the systematic infrastructure development. Industry-specific administrative bodies and institutions responsible for science and technology policy functioned both as executors of Party leadership decisions and as their advisors. (Conclusions) The coordinated interaction among various infrastructural components of the agricultural chemicalization system facilitated the development of scientific schools, the establishment of a solid theoretical framework, and the creation of significant production capacities. These achievements enabled the Soviet agro-industrial complex to reach impressive results during the Soviet period and laid a strong foundation for its sustainable performance in the following decades.