Design and development of a prototype small-plot research harvesting system

Abstract

A critical issue for the grain farming industry is the continuous development of new and improved varieties. This often requires field experiments in small plots. Due to the small size of the plots and the large number of them, harvesting these trials often becomes very inefficient and expensive. Contamination and Occupational Health and Safety issues may also be involved. This paper describes the design and development of a prototype small-plot research harvesting system. The system features a beater type thrashing system which combines the dual functions of removing the grain from the crop and the thrashing system. The material then falls under gravity and is inducted into the conveyance air stream by means of a venturi. The grain and the trash are finally separated in a vertical air aspirator. Due to the self-cleaning nature of this design, the possible contamination between different plots has been avoided. The system is also compact and light. The potential improvements for the commercial production are identified.