Community Involvement in the Development and Evaluation of

Mechanized Seed Planter for the Farmers of Bokod, Benguet

A Project Study Proposal

Presented to the Faculty
Of the Mechanical Engineering Department
School of Engineering and Architecture
Saint Louis University

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

By:
Engr. Marcelino N. Lunag Jr. (Faculty Research Promoter)
Miguel Ivan Kent M. Cortez
Hans Xavier P. Dy
Jade E. Ednalaguim
Kyle Christopher B. Manalo
Ana Allyzon A. Mejia
Jasper Ray H. Milo
Rizalino A. Olbinado Jr.
Kyle B. Pucti
Carl Louis R. Soriano
Tristan Kim Jordan M. Soriano

December 2018
 SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
School of Engineering and Architecture
Electronics Engineering Department

INDORSEMENT

This Research entitled Community Involvement in the Development and

Evaluation of Mechanized Seed Planter for the Farmers of Bokod,
Benguet, Saint Louis University A.Y. 2017-2018 prepared and submitted by
Miguel Ivan Kent M. Cortez, Hans Xavier P. Dy, Jade E. Ednalaguim, Kyle
Christopher B. Manalo, Ana Allyzon A. Mejia, Jasper Ray H. Milo, Rizalino A.
Olbinado Jr., Kyle B. Pucti, Carl Louis R. Soriano and Tristan Kim Jordan M.
Soriano in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree BACHELOR OF
SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING has been examined and hereby
recommended for proposal defense.

Engr. Marcelino N. Lunag Jr.

Promoter/Lead Author

Members of the Panel

Engr. Tristan Joseph G. Banisa

Panel Member

Engr. Jeffrey Z. Duran

Panel Member

Engr. Geneross R. Padua

Panel Member

ii
 Table of Contents

Title Page i
Indorsement ii
Table of Contents iii
List of Figures v
List of Tables vi

Chapter 1 – The Problem & Its Setting

1.1 Background of the Study 1

1.2 Statement of the Problem 5

1.3 Theoretical & Conceptual Framework 5

1.4 Scope and Delimitation 7

1.5 Constraints of the Study 8

1.6 Significance of the Study 9

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms 10

Chapter 2 – The Research Methodology

2.1 Design and Development of the Mechanized Seed Planter 11

2.1.1. Population and Locale of the Study 11

2.1.2. Collection of Seeds 11

2.1.3. Design Considerations 12

2.1.4. Parts of the Mechanized Seed Planter 12

2.1.5. Design Computations 17

2.2 Performance Evaluation 20

a. Pre-test Investigations 20

iii
 b. Field Test 22

2.3 Maintenance of the Mechanized Seed Planter 25

2.4 Management 26

2.4.A. Team Management 27

2.4.B. Time Management 27

2.4.C. Budget Management 29

Chapter 3 – Review of Related Literature

Agriculture and Mechanization 31

Design of Different Crop Planters 32

Seed Metering Devices 35

Performance Evaluation of Different Crop planters 38

Appendix A 42

Appendix B 48

Appendix C 53

Bibliography 54

iv
 List of Figures

Figure 1.1 Design Thinking Framework of the Study 6

Figure 2.1 Isometric View: Mechanized Seed Planter 13

Figure 2.2 Top View: Mechanized Seed Planter 14

Figure 2.3 Side View: Mechanized Seed Planter 14

Figure 2.4 Front View: Mechanized Seed Planter 14

Figure 2.5 Power Transmission of the Mechanized Seed Planter 17

Figure 2.6 Maintenance Procedure Flow Chart – Before Using the Planter 25

Figure 2.7 Maintenance Procedure Flow Chart – After Using the Planter 26

v
 List of Tables

Table 2.1 Kinematic Considerations of the Planter Mechanism 19

Table 2.2 Delegation of Tasks 27

Table 2.3 Chronogram of Activities 28

Table 2.4 Line Item Budget 29

vi
 Chapter 1 – The Problem & Its Setting

1.1 Background of the Study

In this new innovative world, nation’s progress will always have a colossal

impact in almost everything. Vital to the development of a community, agriculture

and technology are one of the main factors that affect the growth of the nation.

The Philippines is considered as an agricultural country, having 51%

arable lands and 12.09 million people in the agricultural industry (Philippine

Statistics Authority, 2012). This comprises almost 35.6% of the country’s labor

force. Production of crops is one of the country’s methods of providing a stable

food supply, apart from importing goods from other countries.

Most of the country’s farmers are small scale farmers and they usually rely

on machete or wooden sticks to sow different seeds. These are used to open the

soil as the farmer drops the required number of seeds and covers them up. This

traditional planting method is tedious, causing fatigue and backache due to the

longer hours required for careful hand metering of seeds if crowding or bunching

is to be avoided, according to Bamgboye and Mofolasayo (2006).

The country’s industrialization also discourages individuals to pursue the

livelihood of farming and instead, opt for more commercialized jobs in the urban

areas. There exists a common notion that farmers are living a poor lifestyle and it

requires a great deal of physical labor. This decreases the appeal of the farming
livelihood, therefore decreasing the already dwindling potential workforce of the

country with the young people tending to take jobs with less physical labor and

has promising salaries. In this light, technological advancement and innovation

may be a plausible solution to the now dominant problem of producing more

workforces for the agricultural sector of the country. The manual method of

planting is labour intensive but can benefit considerably from simple

mechanization (Iya et al., 2010).

Agricultural mechanization is the application of machinery, technology and

increased power to agriculture, largely as a means to enhance the productivity of

human labor and often to achieve results well beyond the capacity of human

labor (Khan, 2017). Mechanizing labor not only decreases labor costs, it also

decreases the need for human input; thus, minimizes failure in production by -

eliminating the factor of human error. Technologies offer potential pecuniary

benefits to farmers via increasing yields and savings in management costs and

input use. Moreover, the innovations also introduce some non-pecuniary benefits

in the farm operation due to their convenience in use and the increased flexibility

in agricultural tasks they provide (Demont et al., 2001).

However, in introducing mechanization today, it is necessary to achieve a

sustainable agriculture, that is, farming in sustainable ways based on an

understanding of ecosystem services. The environmental impact depends on the

production practices of the system used by farmers. For example, farmers have

access to the government's non-collateral credit program which requires the use

of powerful machinery, sophisticated irrigation, petroleum-based fertilizers and

2
pesticides which are actually destructive. Pesticides banned in most

industrialized countries, like Carbofuradan and BHG, are still recommended

(Mondejay, 1982). According to Jain (2012), “As the twenty-first century

advances, we may come to have a different kind of agriculture combining high-

crop yields with management practices based on renewable resources of energy

and advancement of technologies.” Developing a sustainable farming aligns with

the culture of tribal Filipinos and other marginal peasants in isolated or neglected

areas that maintains agricultural systems that preserve the ecological balance,

not only of material nature (soil, water, etc.), but also of social nature and its

interactions. Without doing so, global warming is projected to have significant

impacts on conditions affecting agriculture, including temperature, precipitation,

and glacial run-off.

In the Philippines, Cordillera Region is one of the trailblazers when it

comes to farming. Despite complex land areas, Cordillerans are able to have

abundant harvests due to nutritious soils and to its century-tested farming. The

municipality of Bokod, Benguet is one of the small towns in the Cordillera that is

reliable in crop production. Locals depend on farming on a daily basis. It is their

source of income, food, and wealth. The town of Bokod’s main products are

plants farmed through seeds: beans, corns, and carrots, among others.

Of the available mechanization used in the Bokod farmers’ seed planting,

tractors and seed drill is known to them. Tractors are mainly used for the

preparation and tilling of the land but not on the actual planting operations. Also,

it costs quite some money to have one for small scale farmers. The seed drill has

3
been introduced to the farmers last year. Seed drill sow seeds at specified rate

and at the proper depth and in rows (Khan, 2017). However, its major drawback

is that farmers have to put a required number of seed in the drill every time they

sow a hole. A survey conducted by the researchers shows that, due to the

topographical characteristics of the place, high maintenance cost for some of the

machines used, and physical exhaustion due to bad ergonomics, Bokod citizens

yearn for change through a practical but efficient way of farming by the use of an

effective and user-friendly device.

In small scale landscaping and gardening, to integrate mechanization in

their planting techniques, manually operated seed planters can be used (Khan,

2017). A seed planter is simply a wheel or tool used to sow seeds. A mechanized

seed planter helps to improve their style of planting and increases the efficiency

of farmers drastically. It also provides a hopper for the seeds to eliminate

limitation of a seed drill and deposit seeds at a specified rate in hills and rows

spaced to permit inter-row cultivation as compared to traditional planting where

the farmers estimate the distance of every crop. Seed planters automatically drop

seeds in the holes created by the machine which will help farmers to finish

planting with just a small amount of time.

Current planting operations of the farmers leads to: excess effort in

planting seeds, more time being consumed, risk of having back pain, lower

production of crops, and less motivation. Due to these problems being

encountered by the farmers, the present study introduces the development and

evaluation of a mechanized seed planter through the involvement of the

4
benefactor, the farmers of Bokod, Benguet. The present work applies

engineering techniques to reduce human effort, specifically in seed planting;

provide a product that is cheap, with available materials for construction,

environmentally friendly, easy to maintain, and less laborious to use.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The main problem of the study was how to develop and evaluate a

mechanized seed planter to be used by the farmers of Bokod, Benguet.

Specifically, it sought to do the following objectives:

1. To determine the requirements and considerations in the design and

construction of the mechanized seed planter based on the preferences of

farmers.

2. To evaluate the performance of the mechanized seed planter through:

a) Pre-test investigation to determine the rate of seed discharge,

uniformity of seed spacing, and percentage damage of seeds.

b) Field test to determine the planter’s operating performance on the

field capacity, basis of field efficiency, and planting depth.

3. To know the maintenance procedures to ensure the functionality of the

mechanized seed planter.

1.3 Theoretical & Conceptual Framework

The researchers used the design thinking framework for the study (Figure

1.1). Design thinking framework and processes are designed to emphasize the

importance of human-centered design. Thus, it encourages connectivity,

5
participation, collaboration and understanding the desired end-user, i.e. farmers

of Bokod, Benguet.

1. Understanding the recommendations and

preferences of the farmers of Bokod, Benguet.
2. Seed farming methods being utilized by the
farmers.

1. Prescribed function of a seed planter.

2. Considerations on the construction of the
mechanized seed planter.

1. Proposed design and materials to be used in the

mechanized seed planter

1. Design and construction of a mechanized seed

planter.

1. Pre-test investigation of the prototype for the

measurement of rate of seed discharge,
percentage damage of seeds, uniformity in row
spacing.
2. Field test of the prototype to determine its field
efficiency, field capacity, and planting depth.

Figure 1.1 Design Thinking Framework of the Study

Based on the framework, input variable of the study was determined by

the persona of the farmers. By collaborating with them, the researchers ensure

that the study was based on what the farmers really need to help improve their

planting operations.

6
 Considering the output of the framework, the project was expected to

produce a functional mechanized seed planter. Proper implementation of the

processes led to faster and easier seed planting methods.

1.4 Scope and Delimitation

The study is quantitative in nature and is focused on design and

evaluation of a mechanized planter for seeds only. Farmers in Bokod, Benguet

are intended to be the end-user of the mechanized seed planter. Also, interview

and questionnaire were used as data gathering tools to determine the farmers’

preferences on requirements, specifications, and features of a mechanized seed

planter.

The mechanized seed planter was designed to adapt to the topographical

profile of the farmlands in Bokod, Benguet.

In conducting this study, the following assumptions were made:

1. The farmers fully understand the questions asked and provide honest

expressions of their knowledge.

2. The design of the mechanized seed planter does not include the function

of placing fertilizer into the soil. Farmers are to fertilize the soil manually or

by means of another separate device when needed.

3. Soil is already tilled using other device or manually before operating the

mechanized seed planter in the field. This is to ensure that the soil is soft

enough to be penetrated by the planter and avoid excessive force in doing

so.

7
1.5 Constraints of the Study

One constraint of the study is of economic constraint. The project is

customer-based, that is, it was made for the farmers of Bokod, Benguet. Thus,

their economic capability was considered to ensure that the replication of the

mechanized seed planter is feasible.

Furthermore, to address the manufacturability constraints in the

mechanized seed planter, the materials used were the ones available locally for

easy construction and accessibility when there is a need in replacing parts. Big or

complicated machines were not used in the construction of the planter.

In terms of environmental aspects, the mechanized seed planter is

human-powered; thus it does not have emissions of any kind on the environment

and will not have any harmful byproducts.

The ease of operation and proper maintenance procedures for the

mechanized seed planter were also considered to ensure sustainability in its

operation. The parts are strong enough that it can last a long time without

declining the planter’s functionality. Sustainability is important for easy

understanding and future patronage of the farmers in using the mechanized seed

planter.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study wanted to design a planter that would help the farmers of

Bokod, Benguet and would also benefit the following:

8
 Future Researchers: The ideas, design and methodologies presented in

this study may be used as a reference for future studies and could help make

improvements to the design in order to always continue the flow of innovation

through research.

Mechanical Engineering Students and Present Researchers: This would

serve as a practice and a learning experience in our chosen field of engineering

which would prepare us in the actual practice.

Farmers of Bokod: The outcome of this study will greatly benefit the

farmers of Bokod, Benguet, as one of the objectives of the study was to help the

farmers plant more efficiently without exerting much effort and with a cost that

would be beneficial to them. As such, it would greatly improve their crop yield

and reduce the strain of the farmers in the community.

Saint Louis University: The study fulfilled a Louisian’s duty to become

more competitive and have social involvement. It developed minds and attitude

to make more researches that would benefit all. This would also serve as a

wakeup call for others at the university to go out and help people.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Field Capacity - rate of how fast the mechanized seed planter is planting a

land area; total land area that mechanized seed planter can plant over a

given span of time.

9
2. Field efficiency - a measure of how the mechanized seed planter can be

operated effectively for planting purposes. It is the total number of hours

the planter is planting divided the total operating time of the planter.

3. Seed discharge rate - rate of how fast the planter is discharging seeds; the

total weight of seed discharged over a period of time.

4. Precision planters – planter with a delivery system that translates seed

metering accuracy (the uniformity in the time interval between individual

seeds metered) to seed placement accuracy (the uniformity of seed

spacing along the furrow).

5. Seed germination - the stage of seedling development when active growth

first becomes evident. In practice, a seed is considered to have

germinated when the radical has emerged 2–3 mm from the ground.

6. Furrow – a trench of groove made on the soil surface by a hoe, plow,

tractor, or other implement where seeds are sown and fertilizer is placed

before the furrow is closed up.

10
 Chapter 2 – The Research Methodology

This experiment utilized the experimental approach that determined the

required factors to further improve the farming operations. Data was acquired to

evaluate the performance characteristics of the mechanized seed planter. The

following outlines the methods used to answer the problem and to attain the

objective of the study.

2.1. Design and Development of the Mechanized Seed Planter

2.1.1. Population and Locale of the Study

The present study was dedicated to benefit the farmers of Bokod,

Benguet. The researchers coordinated with the chairman of the farmers’

association and local government officials of Bokod, Benguet to determine

the number of farmers that can contribute to the specifications of the

planter.

The researchers used interviews and questionnaires to align the needs

and wants of the farmers. Then, the researchers proposed a design of a

planter utilizing mechanisms to incorporate with the farmers’ planting

techniques. Collaboration was made upon proposal to the farmers to give

them a better understanding on the operation of the planter. Then the

researchers proceeded to the fabrication of the planter.

2.1.2. Collection of Seeds

 The seed to which the planter was made to operate with was based on

the most frequently planted seed by the farmers: sweet peas. The seeds

were bought from a local garden center. The mechanized seed planter was

designed to cater sweet peas through a specialized seed metering device.

2.1.3. Design Considerations

The design of the mechanized seed planter was based on the following

considerations:

i. The ease of fabrication of component parts

ii. Ease of operation of the machine

iii. Locally available materials

iv. Cost considerations of the materials.

Furthermore, the mechanisms of the mechanized seed planter were

included opening the furrow, metering the seeds, depositing the seed from

the seed metering wheel, and covering the furrow.

2.1.4. Parts of the mechanized seed planter

The following were incorporated on the design and fabrication of the

mechanized seed planter:

13
 Figure 2.1 Isometric view of the planter

Metering Wheel – the heart of the device which distributes the seeds

uniformly in controlled space tailored in the farming method of the farmers

of Barangay Bila, Bokod, Benguet. The metering wheel was made of nylon.

Advantages of this material include local availability, high tensile and

flexural strength which resulted in a material that is wear, chemical, and

thermal resistant. This material will be safe from degradation brought about

14
by the moist infiltration in the seeds. The metering wheel consists of

rectangular cells bored equidistant from each other along the periphery.

The diameter of the wheel is 104 mm, with a thickness of 62.5 mm. The

cells’ dimensions were based on the size and number of sweet pea to be

deposited by the metering wheel.

Metering Device Housing – contains the metering disc turned in a

shaft with a 35.2 mm diameter and 100 mm length. The housing is made of

cast iron, 106 mm internal diameter and 70 mm length. Two slots of 29 x 7

mm were made at the upper and lower portions of the hollow pipe. The

seeds from the hopper will pass through the upper slot to the metering

wheel from where they will be discharged through the lower slot into the

discharge tube.

Furrow Opening Device – a pointed tool fabricated to form a narrow

slit in the soil for seed deposition. The design adopted is for forming narrow

slit under heavy soils for placement of seeds at medium depths. The

material used for the construction is an angle bar with a length of 200 mm

and a height of 325 mm. The furrow opener was made of angle bar (with

length of 200 mm and height of 325 mm) and sheet metal with rake angles

(i.e. the angle made between the leading edge of the opener and the

direction of travel) of less than 90 degrees

Furrow Closing Device – allows proper covering and compaction of

the soil over the seeds in the furrow. It was made of rectangular mild steel

15
plate of dimension 200 mm x 320 mm. The pipe for attachment to the

support was welded to the middle of the upper edge of the plate. The

covering device was inclined at an angle of 45° to the direction of the travel

for optimum covering of the soil. It was fastened with nut and bolt to the

frame through a hole drilled on the frame. This was made perpendicular to

the direction of travel of the machine to facilitate proper covering of the soil.

Feed Hopper – The feed hopper was constructed having a frustum of a

pyramid cross section made of mild steel with open base and top

dimensions of 45 x 50 mm and 260 x 200 mm, respectively.

Chain and Sprocket – Two sprockets of the same size were utilized in

the device: standard sprocket with 18 teeth, inclined at an angle of 10° with

respect to the horizontal. The driving sprocket is attached to the driving

wheel to transmit power to the driven sprocket located on the sides of the

frame through the use of a chain.

Handle – the handle consists of two mild steel pipes of 17 mm

diameter, each of length 150 mm.

Driving Wheel – a 20-in diameter bicycle wheel was installed in front of

the planter having lugs on its periphery to increase traction and reduction

slip.

Discharge Tube – a 230-mm trapezoidal-shaped tube that links with a

short cylindrical pipe from which the seeds drop into the furrow.

16
2.1.5. Design Computations

The necessary computations for acquiring the design characteristics

and parts were based from the formulae suggested by Khan (2017):

a) Power Transmission

Chain Seed Seed

Drive
Handle Drive metering Metering
wheel
System shaft Device

Figure 2.5 Power Transmission of the Mechanized Seed

planter
b) Power Developed by the planter

i. Force needed to push the machine

𝐻𝑃 = 0.35 − .092 log 𝑡

where: t = operation time in minutes (120 to 240 minutes for humans)

Considering 3 hours of continuous work: 𝑯𝑷 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟒𝑯𝑷

𝑃𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 (𝑘𝑔𝑓 ) × 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 (𝑚⁄𝑠)

𝐻𝑃 =
75
𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 = 0.7 𝑚⁄𝑠
𝑃𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 × 0.71
0.14 =
75
𝑷𝒖𝒔𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 = 𝟏𝟓𝒌𝒈𝒇
ii. Load on the chain

𝑄 = 𝐾𝑡 𝑃𝑡
𝜑 = 35° 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 (𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒)
𝐾𝑡 = 1.15 (𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑑 𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑒𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑖𝑛)
𝑃𝑡 = 𝑝𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒

17
 𝑄 = 1.15(15.05)
𝑸 = 𝟏𝟕. 𝟑𝟏 𝒌𝒈𝒇
Equivalent chain load on shaft, 𝑄𝑣 = 𝑄𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜑 = 17.31 𝑠𝑖𝑛(35°) = 𝟗. 𝟗𝟑𝒌𝒈𝒇

iii. Shaft Diameter

Maximum bending moment

𝑀𝑏 = (𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑛 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑒𝑙 × 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟ℎ𝑢𝑛𝑔) + (𝑄𝑣 × 𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟ℎ𝑢𝑛𝑔)
𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟ℎ𝑢𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑓 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑒𝑙 = 15 𝑐𝑚
𝑂𝑣𝑒𝑟ℎ𝑢𝑛𝑔 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡 = 5 𝑐𝑚
𝑀𝑏 = (15 × 0.15) + (9.93 × 0.05)
𝑀𝑏 = 2.7465 𝑘𝑔 − 𝑚

𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 = √𝑀𝑏 2 + 𝑀𝑡 2 = √2.74652 + 0.6752

= 2.828 𝑘𝑔 − 𝑚

3 16𝑀
𝑒𝑞
𝐷=√
𝜋𝜏

𝜏 = 5.01 𝑘𝑔/𝑐𝑚3

3 16(2.828)
𝐷=√ = 𝟏. 𝟒𝟐𝟐 𝒄𝒎
𝜋(5.01)

iv. Capacity of Seed Hopper

To determine the capacity of the hopper when it is fully loaded, the

following formula was used:

𝐻
𝑉= (𝐴1 + 𝐴2 + 2√𝐴1 𝐴2 )
3

𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒: 𝐻 = ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡, 𝐴1 = 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑜𝑝, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴2 = 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑎 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒

𝐴1 = 310𝑥230 𝑚𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴2 = 30𝑥110𝑚𝑚

18
 400 2
𝑉= (71300 + 3300 + √(71300)(3300))
3

= 11, 991, 888.74 𝑚3 𝑜𝑟 𝟏𝟏, 𝟗𝟗𝟐 𝒄𝒎𝟑

v. Seed Metering Wheel for Different Crops & Kinematic

Considerations of the Mechanized Seed Planter

The number of cells for the seed metering wheel depended on the

desired plant spacing for the sweet peas and the size of the drive wheel

to achieve such spacing.

The distance between adjacent cells was designed to make the

kinematic movement from the driving wheel to the seed metering wheel

discharge specified number of seeds at the desired seed-to-seed row

distance in the furrow. The relationship of the rotating mechanisms was

determined by:

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑑 = 𝜋 𝐷 𝑟𝑒𝑣

Table 2.1: Kinematic Considerations of the Planter Mechanism

Distance Traveled Revolutions

Drive Spacing
Spacing (required in the furrow) πDdrive wheel
Wheel

Larger Spacing Spacing

𝑥 Dlarger sprocket πDdrive wheel
πDdrive wheel
Sprocket

19
Smaller 1 1
𝑋 Dsmaller sprocket 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙
Sprocket

Dmetering wheel
Seed
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑥Dmetering wheel
Dmetering wheel
Metering
𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙 1
=
Wheel 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙

The distance traveled by the smaller sprocket in drive shaft is equal to

the distance traveled by the larger sprocket in metering shaft:

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡 = 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡

Spacing 1
𝑥 Dlarger sprocket = 𝑋 Dsmaller sprocket
πDdrive wheel 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙

𝜋𝐷𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡 𝐷𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑒𝑙

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙 =
𝐷𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡 × 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔

𝐷
but; 𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 = 𝐷 𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡
𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑡
thus,
𝜋 𝑥 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑒𝑙
𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑙 =
𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 𝑥 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔

2.2. Performance Evaluation

a) Pre-test Investigations

The machine was calibrated in the laboratory to determine the depth of the

hole made, the rate of discharge, the precision of seed planting mechanism,

consistency of seed spacing in rows, percentage of seed damage, and

imbedding of the soil.

20
 Calibration. The middle part of the machine is where the seed hopper

and the adjustable planting wheel are located. To determine the rate of seed

discharge, the seed hopper was loaded with seeds at approximately ¼ of the

volume of the hopper. The planter was jacked up to allow for free rotation of

the drive or transport wheels. A mark was made on the driving wheel to

indicate the reference point to count the number of revolutions when turned,

and a plastic bag was placed on the seed discharge tube to collect the seeds

discharged. The driving wheel was rotated for ten times at low speed as

would be obtained on the field. A stop watch was used to measure the time

taken to complete the revolutions. The seeds collected in the plastic bag were

weighed on a balance and the procedure was repeated ten times.

Seed Spacing. The metering wheel was constructed so as to have

spaces properly corresponding to the required seed spacing per row. The

diameter of the metering wheel was based on the desired discharged seeds

per revolution of the machine. A 10m run was marked out on the plain ground

and the planter was run within that length at a walking speed. A measuring

tape was used to measure the distance between successive hills dropped.

Damage Test. The seeds that were discharged from the tube were

observed for any external damage. Seeds with visible sign of damage were

separated from good seeds. Damaged and good seeds released in the 10

revolutions were weighed separately using triple beam balance. This

procedure was repeated for 10 trials. The percentage damaged seeds was

computed using the formula:

21
 𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒔
𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑺𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝑫𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒆 = 𝒙 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑻𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒔

b) Field Test

A field of 25 square meters was used for the performance test of the

planter. This land was properly tilled (ploughed and harrowed) to obtain a

good soil condition for the crop, and workable condition for the planter. The

field efficiency, field capacity, planting depth of seeds and uniformity of seed

spacing were determined.

Field Efficiency. In order to determine the field efficiency, the planting

operation was performed longitudinally with a constant forward speed as

determined by noting the distance of travel using measuring tape and

corresponding time to complete the distance with the aid of a stopwatch

while planting the area of the prepared field. The effective operating time

excludes the time spent to fill the seed hopper, remove stumps and other

obstructions. The field efficiency was calculated from equation suggested by

Condra (2017):

𝟏𝟎𝟎𝑻𝒆
𝜺 = 𝑻𝒕

𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒:
𝜀 = 𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 (%)
𝑇𝑒=𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 (𝑚𝑖𝑛)
𝑇𝑡 = 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 (𝑚𝑖𝑛)

22
 Field Capacity. The capacity of the planter was determined in terms of

the area of land covered per time during planting. The capacity of the planter

was obtained from the following expression (Iya et al., 2010):

𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒂 𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓

𝑪𝑷𝑨 =
𝟏𝟎, 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆

𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒:

𝐶𝑃𝐴 = Capacity of planter in hectare/time

Planting Depth. The average depth of seed placement was determined

by running the planter to and from over an area of 25 square meters without

the furrow covering device and with medium setting of the furrow opener

(Bamgboye & Mofolasayo, 2006). During the process, the time taken to travel

the length of the field was recorded to determine the average speed of

operation in the field. Along the furrow, each hill was investigated for depth of

planting. A measuring tape was used to measure the required depth.

2.3 Management

Documentation on the management of the present study was made to deal

with the control of activities, people, and materials of the research for an easier

and systematic approach of the study. The following basically outlines the

management for the present study.

2.3.A. Team Management

The delegation of tasks for this research (Table 2.2) was based on the

knowledge, strength, accountability, and capability of the researchers. They

23
 were responsible for the collaboration with the right people to help in

performing the task and on finishing it on time.

Table 2.2 Delegation of Tasks

Member Task
Engr. Marcelino N. Lunag Jr. Faculty Promoter
Milo, Jasper Ray H. Leader
Ednalaguim, Jade E. Assistant Leader
Financial Manager
Dy, Hans Xavier P.  Treasurer
Mejia, Ana Allyzon A.  Material Manager
Representative/ Spokesperson to
Pucti, Kyle B.
Farmer
Manalo, Kyle Christopher B. Design Manager
Olbinado, Rizalino A. Jr.
Manufacturing/Fabrication
Cortez, Miguel Ivan Kent
Soriano, Carl Louis R.
Testing
Soriano, Tristan Kim Jordan

2.3.B. Time Management

The chronogram of activities (Table 2.3) was made to track the progress

of the research. It served as the reference to which the researchers consult

with to find if they finished a task at a reasonable time frame.

Table 2.3 Chronogram of Activities

ACTIVITIES MONTH
MAR

MAY
AUG

NOV
OCT

DEC

APR
SEP

JAN
FEB

A. Finalization of research X X
groups lecture on

24
 research, approval of
project topic
B. Preparation of research
proposal
1. Literature review, X X
preliminary interviews,
needs assessment
2. Writing of Introduction X X
(with problem
objectives research
questions, significance
etc.)
3. Writing of the methods X X
section (with identified
research design,
preliminary overview
of operation of the
proposed project,
preliminary block
diagram)
4. Identification of X X
minimum material
requirements,
preliminary design of
the planter/materials
needed
5. Finalization of X
proposal and defense
6. Incorporation of X
suggestions/
recommendations
C. Project Design and
Construction
1. Finalization of the X X
mechanical design of
the planter
2. Procurement of the X X
materials,
construction of the
design
D. Testing/Troubleshooting
1. Testing of the X X
prototype
2. Testing/Troubleshooti X X X
ng to complete the
project, recording of

25
 results
E. Preparation of final
report/output
1. Writing the X X X X
manuscript
2. Editing X X X
3. Presentation and Oral X X
defense
4. Revisions X X

Furthermore, the brainstorming of ideas regarding the research,

together with the composition and revision of the manuscript, was done

during the common free time of the researchers.

26
 Chapter 3 – Review of Related Literature

Agriculture and Mechanization

Modern era is marching towards the rapid growth of all sectors including

the agricultural sector. To meet the future food demands, the farmers have to

implement the new techniques which will not affect the soil texture but will

increase the overall crop production (Upadhyaya et al., 2017).

According to Andure, Indani, Jadhav, Kawde, and Khamankar (2018) seed

sowing machine is designed for small farmers to improve their productivity. This

machine can be made by raw materials also which saves the cost of whole

project and is easily manufactured in available workshops. The only cost is of the

metering device. Hence by using this machine we can achieve flexibility of

distance and control depth variation for different seeds hence usable to all seeds.

The advantage of using precision seed planter includes saving seeds,

fewer working hours, more uniform spacing in the row and depth of planting, and

for these reasons it follows that the crop will be uniform in height and strength,

which is a prerequisite for high yields (Turan et al., 2015).

For most farmers, the planting operation causes more anxiety than any

other farm operation (Bouchandira, 1984). Manual method of seed planting

results in low seed placement and spacing efficiencies, and serious back ache

for the farmers which limit the size of field that can be planted. The cost price of
imported and local planters have also gone beyond the purchasing power of

most of our farmers (Khan et al., 2015). Moreover in manual seeding, it is not

possible to achieve uniformity in distribution of seeds and a farmer may sow at a

desired seed rate but inter-row and outer-row distribution of seeds are likely to be

uneven resulting in bunching and gaps in field and poor control over depth of

seed placement (Andure et al., 2018).

Using machines which can perform a number of simultaneous operations

has a number of advantages. As day by day the labor availability becomes a

great concern for the farmers and labor cost is more, the seed planter reduces

the efforts and total cost of sowing the seeds (Andure et al., 2018).

Planting machinery can be broadly classified on the basis of: the number

of rows planted in one pass of the machine; the type of planting machine based

on the resultant planting pattern; and the type of power source used to propel the

machine (Murray et al., 2006). Furthermore, on the basis of power source,

human-powered planters are typically categorized as being either hand-

held/carried or pulled or pushed.

Design of Different Crop Planters

The basic requirements for small scale cropping machines are that they

should be suitable for small farms, simple in design and technology and versatile

for use in different farm operations (Kyada & Patel, 2014).

28
 The basic objectives of sowing operation is to put the seed and fertilizer in

rows at a desired depth and seed-to-seed spacing, cover the seeds with soil, and

provide proper compaction over the seed (Kyada & Patel, 2014).

Seed germination and emergence are affected by mechanical factors:

uniformity of depth of placement of seed; uniformity of distribution of seeds along

rows; transverse displacement of seed from the row; prevention of loose soil

getting under the seed; uniformity of soil cover over the seed; mixing of fertilizer

with seed during placement in the furrow (Upadhyaya et al., 2017). To achieve

the best performance from a seed drill or planter, the above factors are to be

optimized by proper design and selection of the components required on the

machine to suit the needs of the crops (Andure et al., 2018).

To achieve the best performance from a seed planter, the above limits are

to be optimized by proper design and selection of the components required on

the machine to suit the needs of crops (Andure et al., 2018; Khan et al., 2015).

Iya, Kabri, Aliyu, and Umaru (2010) developed precision rice planter for

smallholder farmers in north-eastern Nigeria. Precision planters accurately place

single seeds or groups of seed almost equidistant apart along a furrow. They are

typically used to plant crops that require accurate control of plant population, and

spacing between and along the rows. Precision seed metering systems giving a

precision drill, hill drop or checking row planting pattern are used on this type of

planting machine (Murray et al., 2006). The machine consists of a roller-metering

device that rotates and receives constant flow of seeds from a bottomless

29
hopper, a furrow opener, and covering device. There is a front land wheel from

which the seed-metering device is directly driven through chain and sprockets.

Kyada and Patel (2014) focused on four main types of mechanism set in

sowing machine as per requirement of varying seed-to-seed spacing and depth

of seed placement from crop to crop-seed meter mechanism, plunger

mechanism, lever-fulcrum mechanism, and cam shaft transmission. Power

transmission is done by the gear sprocket transmission system. A total of seven

sprockets is used to transmit the motion to plunger and speed variation to get

variable distance between the two seeds. A total of eight types of variable

distances like 5 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm, 45 cm, 60cm are

achieved by changing speed of sprocket. Speed of sprocket is changed by

shifting chain from one sprocket to another sprocket through mechanism which is

available in geared bicycles.

A controlled seeding rate such as seeds per hectare or fertilizer

application rate is desired when planting or applying fertilizer in order to obtain

the optimum yield of a crop (Aikinse et al., 2010). Seeding at rates below the

optimum increases the risk of not attaining the maximum yield potential for a

given environment while seeding maize at populations above the optimal

increases the risk of encountering stress at critical growth stages and suffering

yield reductions.

Due to different crops having different requirements for the seed planting

in the field, the usefulness of the single crop planter is limited. Hence the

requirement of the manually operated multi-crop planter is very high (Khan et al.,

30
2015). Khan (2017) designed a manually operated multi-crop planter based on

physical properties of maize, pigeon pea okra and red gram seeds by developing

seed metering wheel suited for each type of seed.

Seed Metering Devices

Seed metering devices are those devices that meter the seed from the

seed box and deposit it into the delivery system that conveys the seed for

placement (Kyada & Patel, 2014). The operational requirements for seed

metering systems include: the ability to meter the range of seed types to be

planted by the machine; the ability to meter these seeds over the range of

seeding rates required to meet individual crop and/or particular environmental

conditions; the ability to maintain the predetermined rate (output) and spacing

(accuracy) over the range of conditions likely to exist at planting; and a high level

of operational reliability, which is important in view of the generally narrow

planting window available (Murray et al., 2006). The metering system selected for

the seed should not damage the seed while in operation (Andure et al., 2018).

Most can be classified as either ‘precision’ or ‘mass flow’ depending

primarily on their principle of operation and the resulting planting pattern. Mass

flow meters attempt to meter a consistent volume of seed per unit of time to give

an average seed spacing equal to the desired spacing, while precision type seed

meters attempt to select single seeds from the seed lot and deliver them from the

meter at a pre-set time interval. If this time interval is maintained as the seed is

being delivered to, and placed in, the seedbed, the seeding pattern will be one

where the seeds are equidistant along the furrow (Murray et al., 2006).

31
 Gunavant, Shinde, & Yadav (2017) used scotch-yoke mechanism as the

main working mechanism of this seed planting machine. Bevel gears are used for

the transmission of motion in perpendicular axis. On the shaft of the second

bevel gear where the scotch-yoke mechanism is mounted, linear motion is

transmitted to the strip which controls the seed rate by opening and closing the

hopper outlets. When the strip reciprocates with constant stroke by this

mechanism at constant intervals, the holes of the strip and the hopper matches

and seeds flow through the holes.

The pneumatic seeding system was applied by Lijing, Hui, and Shaochun

(2016). It was mainly composed of an air pump, a seed box, a centralized

metering device, an air-seed mixing chamber, a conveying tube, a guide tube, a

distributor, and final tubes. Seeds were metered from the seeding wheel of the

centralized metering device. The high-pressure air from the pump and the seeds

met in the mixing chamber, and then mixed into air-seed two-phase flow. They

flowed through the conveying tube and the guide tube, and then were distributed

into eight pieces by the distributor.

To solve the problems on non-uniform spacing of seeds along the rows

and lack of control on planting depth growth related problems and degrades the

quality of a sensitive crops, an attempt was made by Ahmadi, Ghassemzadeh,

Moghaddam, and Kim (2008) to develop a precision seed drill with a roller-type-

metering device. Design parameters affecting the uniformity of seed distribution

were studied from the view point of roller and brush geometry. Appropriate

32
design of the groove profile as well as spiral shape of the groove results to easier

loading of seeds on the groove.

The seed metering mechanism used for the work of (Ikechukwu et al.,

2014) was the wooden roller type with cells on its periphery. For this design, the

drive shaft directly controls the seed metering mechanism which eliminates

completely attachments such as pulleys, belt systems, and gears thereby

eliminating complexities which increase cost, and increasing efficiency at a highly

reduced cost.

The metering mechanism used by Francis (2017) was constructed from

the principle of bicycle braking system where the seed metering component is

linked to the regulator handle. Applying the regulator handle causes the seed

meter to open for a seed from the hopper to pass through the lower slot tube, into

the opened furrow (Francis, 2017).

The stationary ring surrounding the plate should fit well for best

performance. Plates with round or oval holes were used for drilling and hill

dropping seed. The diameter of the metering device fabricated by (Rabbani et al.,

2016) was 16.8 cm with 8 cells open for passing the seed. The entire metering

device is attached to a vertical shaft. A differential mechanism was used between

the vertical shaft and a horizontal shaft, attached to the runner wheels.

Plate type precision seed meters are taken here to be those that

principally use a moving plate with indents, i.e. holes, cells or cups, around its

periphery and metering performance is generally highly dependent on matching

the size (length, breadth and thickness) of the indents to the size of the seed.

33
Plate meters can be sub- classified as ‘horizontal plate’, ‘inclined plate’ or

‘vertical plate’ types-The top of the plate is exposed to the seed and the close

tolerance between the disc and the housing provides for both cut-off and the

retention of seeds in the cells until deposited into the seed delivery system at the

base of the meter. Typically, the metering rate is adjusted by changing the

velocity ratio of the plate or by selecting a plate with more or less cells around its

periphery. Seed metering performance is highly dependent on the use of graded

seed and the match between the seed and cell sizes. The width of the meter

housing is usually fixed, so the overall width of the plate must remain constant,

irrespective of the seed size. The plate is usually made up from a number of

matched thinner plates of varying thickness to account for the seed size as well

as the width of the plate chamber (Murray et al., 2006).

Performance Evaluation of Different Crop planters

There have been various ways of sowing the seeds, but precision planting

has always been desirable. Precision planting is the placement of a specified

number of seed in the soil at desired plant spacing in a row. Keeping this in mind,

the performances on precision planter is evaluated in terms of depth of planting,

field capacity, field efficiency and seed damaged by the planter (Francis, 2017).

Calibration of the seed metering device should be done accurately to get

right seed rate and seed spacing. The machine should operate at normal working

speed (2- 3 km/hr), because too fast causing splitting the seed and slow walking

decrease field capacity of the machine (Rabbani et al., 2016).

34
 Field efficiency is defined as the percentage of time a machine operates at

its rated speed and width while in the field (Condra, 2017). Condra (2017) also

cited that field efficiencies for row crop planters range from 50 to 75 % for

planting speeds of 6.5 to 11.0 km/h. Field efficiency indicates how well machinery

is suited for use within a particular field. It examines the relationship between

actual productive time in the field and overall time spent in the field. Actual

productive time in the field for planting operations is time spent planting. Non-

productive times include turning time, infield travelling time, time loading seed,

time spent folding/unfolding the planter, adjustments made to the machine or

equipment and any other items relative to planting when not in the field.

Investigation of the field efficiency and effective field capacity of a planter

involved continuous observation and timing of each activity involved in the

planting operation (Bamgboye & Mofolasayo, 2006). Effective field capacity is

defined as the actual rate of land or crop processed in a given time. An operator

does not operate a machine at constant theoretical field capacity field due to

various factors that include field characteristics; obstacles within fields; turning

and idle traveling; handling seed, chemicals, and fertilizers; machinery

adjustment, lubrication, and refuelling; and other downtime (Condra, 2017).

Optimum planting depth has two essential components: the depth of the

furrow relative to the original soil surface and the depth of soil covering the seed.

The depth from the original soil surface has implications for the level and likely

duration of moisture availability to the seed (Murray et al., 2006). Uniform seed

spacing and depth result in better germination and emergence and increase yield

35
by minimizing competition between plants for available light, water, and nutrients

(Ahmadi et al., 2008).

Turan (2015) performed a field testing of three seed in sowing maize at

three different speeds of sowing, 6, 8 and 10 km/h. At a speed of 6 km/h all three

planters worked with a coefficient of variation less than 25% and with values from

19.25 to 22.72%, which meets the criteria of quality planting. The percentage of

pairwise ranges from 1.66 to 2.64%. The percentage of empty spaces were from

4.24 to 4.93%. The proportion of seeds sown at a given space were from 92.5 to

94.09%, which is an indicator that sowing was successfully.

Bamgboye and Mofolasayo (2006) developed manually operated two-row

okra planter and it was evaluated for performance by conducting field and

laboratory tests. A percentage difference between the weights of seeds

discharged from the two hoppers of 4.97% was obtained during testing; while the

seed rate was 0.36kg/hr. A reduction in percentage damage of 3.51% was

attained with spacing varying from 59cm to 70cm, and an average depth

between 8mm and 9mm. The overall average efficiency of the planter was

71.75%.

Oduma, Ede, and Igwe (2014) developed a manually operated cowpea

precision planter. An average weight of 4.62g of seeds was discharged during

the test, at the planting space varying from 48.4cm to 49.6cm obtained from the

field and laboratory test respectively. The planter effectively metered out two

seeds per discharge at average planting depth of 2.22cm with minimum seed

damage of 2.34% during operation. The planter could be adjusted to metre more

36
seeds at more or less planting depths depending on the choice of the farmer.

The field efficiency of 71.71% and average field capacity of 0.260 ha/hr were

obtained from the test.

37
 Chapter 4 – Project Design, Construction, and Testing

Overview of the Operation of the Project

The planter is operated by pushing it through the soil where the seed is to

be planted. The drive wheel rotates and drives the mechanisms to plant seeds.

The mechanism of the mechanized seed planter has to perform the following

functions:

1. to open the furrow,

2. to meter the seeds,

3. to deposit the seed from the seed metering wheel, and

4. to cover the furrow.

The first function above is accomplished by using the furrow opener.

Furrow opener is the specific device that opens the furrow into which the seed is

placed. The furrow opener used in the present study was made of angle bar and

sheet metal with rake angles (i.e. the angle made between the leading edge of

the opener and the direction of travel) of less than 90 degrees. Furrow opener

digs a furrow by penetrating the soil and displacing the soil upward and outward

to form a “U” or “V”-shaped furrow. It has a provision for vertical adjustment to

enable alteration of planting depth as required. It is important that the furrow

opener be rigidly held in its working position to maximize control over

both furrow depth and seed placement. To deal with the bending stress, more

rigid size of angle bar was used.

Seed metering mechanisms include the hopper, metering house, and the

metering wheel as its heart. Cells of the metering house are filled with a

predetermined amount of seeds from the hopper through the upper hole of the

metering house. The cells must be precise in dimensions suited for the sweet

peas. Overlapping seeds and excess seeds due to unfitting dimension of cell

results to shearing and clogging of seeds; thus, difficult operation of the planter

and higher seed damage. Average measurement, instead of maximum, with

minimum clearance from the seeds was considered in the design of the cell

which has resulted to a better effect in the operation. Furthermore, the metering

wheel is centered in the metering disc to allow smooth and consistent rotation of

the wheel together with seed in itself.

Seeds from the metering wheel are discharged to the furrow as the

metering wheel is rotated until the filled cell passes through the lower hole of the

metering house. The seed is the deposited through the discharge tube. This

function of the planter is attributed to effectiveness of the seed-to-seed spacing.

Seed spacing is affected by the speed of the planter and the height of seed

metering mechanism from the ground. Higher speeds decrease the effectiveness

of seed rate; thus, more chance of missed hole and space. Also, operational

speed can offset the time of the seeds falling in the discharge tube. Thus the

delay causes a wider seed spacing compared to the recommended value. The

metering mechanism was lowered to eliminate this problem.

39
 Finally, as the planter is pushed, the furrow closing device drags back the

soil into the furrow to cover the discharged seed. The furrow closing device is

composed of steel rod made into a rectangular and flat cover design. It operates

by dragging the soil through plowing action like in the gardening. A horizontal rod

was also added near the bottom to help with dragging the soil back effectively. It

is rigidly fixed at the parking stand of the planter for the user’s ease in the control

of the covering action.

Block Diagram of the Seed Planter Process

Figure 4.1 Block Diagram - Mechanized Seed Planter Process

Figure 4.1 presents the block diagram of the whole process in the

operation of the mechanized seed planter. The planter is operated manually to

have economic advantage. There are two inputs in the process; that is, the push

force applied by the user and the seeds themselves.

As the planter is being pushed by the user, the action is transmitted to the

chassis which rotates the drive wheel. The wheel itself drives two sprockets

40
through a chain. The second sprocket rotates with the shaft into which the

metering wheel is also attached.

Seed that is put in the hopper pass through the upper hole of the metering

house to fill each cells of the metering wheels as the metering wheels rotates.

The seed in a specific cell is discharged to a tube through the lower hole of the

metering house as the cell completes a 180º rotation.

A furrow opening and closing devices are connected to the chassis to do

the necessary work in the soil for planting. The mechanized seed planter makes

a furrow; then seeds are discharged at specific spacing; and lastly, the furrow is

covered back by the furrow closing device.

Design of the Planter

The planter was constructed as discussed in Chapter 2. The schematic

diagram of the planter is shown if Figures 4.2a to 4.2c. The picture of the actual

planter and its parts are shown in Figures 4.3a and 4.3b.

41
Figure 4.2a Side view of the planter

42
Figure 4.2b Front view of the planter

43
Figure 4.2c Top view of the planter

Figure 4.3a Mechanized seed planter with parts

44
 Figure 4.3b Mechanized seed planter with parts

Pre-test of the Mechanized Seed Planter

Table 4.1 shows the results obtained from the calibration of the planter for

10 trials. It shows a mean discharged seeds weight of 59.33 g. The planter has

an average seed discharge rate of 3.308 kg/hr.

It was observed that the seed discharge rate was affected by the speed of

the planter. At higher speeds, seed filling rate considerably decreases. In this

study, the planter was operated at an average of 9 rev/min which is equivalent to

a forward speed of 0.86 km/h; while Oduma (2014) implemented 2.03 km/h and

Bamgboye and Mofolasayo (2006) used 1.58 km/h. The relative lower speed of

45
the planter was to help in achieving proper metering of seeds into the cell and

better seed discharge rate.

Table 4.1 Seed Discharge Rate

Time to travel Seed
Seed Discharge
Trial 10 revolutions Discharge
(grams)
(sec) Rate (kg/hr)
1 55.69 43.0 2.780
2 91.20 58.7 2.317
3 68.23 69.3 3.656
4 63.72 59.2 3.345
5 66.89 60.3 3.245
6 68.03 52.0 2.752
7 81.14 55.6 2.467
8 45.29 63.5 5.047
9 60.22 66.1 3.952
10 67.13 65.6 3.518
Average 66.75 59.33 3.308

Table 4.2a & Table 4.2b present the seed spacing per seed discharge for

the span of 10m. Table 4.2a shows the data of the seed spacing between holes

with successfully discharged seeds, while Table 4.2b shows data for the missed

holes for the whole test.

The counted numbers of discharged seeds per hole were only good seeds

as for seed germination. The planter effectively metered out the required 3

satisfactory seeds per discharge as recommended by the farmers of Bokod.

46
 The planter shows fairly uniform seed spacing with an average value of

5.88 in. The value was based only on the data with successful discharged seed

as distances from missed holes cannot be properly accounted. The planter

achieved a good seed-to-seed distance for planting sweet pea, comparing to a

value of 6 in as recommendation by the farmers of Bokod.

Furthermore, percentage missed rate is computed from the data of Table

4.2b. From a total of 67 holes of the span, the test incurred 14 missed holes. A

five percent missed rate is considered insignificant (Khan, 2017). The planter,

however, resulted a missed rate of the planter is 21.21%. It is observed that

most empty discharge happen consecutively due to bulking of seeds in the

hopper and on the hole of metering house. Frequent shaking while operating the

planter were done to help in moving the seeds and fill the metering wheel

continuously as possible.

47
 Table 4.2a Seed Spacing of Successfully Discharged Holes
Number of Seed Number of Seed Number of Seed
Seeds Spacing Seeds Spacing Seeds Spacing
Discharged (in) Discharged (in) Discharged (in)
4 6 4 5 2 5
4 5 3 6 4 8
4 5 3 5 4 6
5 6 2 6 3 4
4 5.5 5 6 1 5.5
3 6 4 6 3 6.5
4 5 4 5 4 5
2 5.5 3 7 4 5
2 7 4 6.5 3 6
3 5 3 5.5 3 6
3 5.5 4 5.5 3 6
3 6 4 5.5 3 6
3 5.5 4 6 3 6
3 5.5 3 6 2 6
4 6 3 5.5 1 5
3 6 3 7 Average 5.88

Table 4.2b Missed Holes

Distance
Number of Holes with
from Last
Seeds Empty
Discharged
Discharged Seed
Seed/s (in)
1 19 2
4 27 3
3 12 1
2 12 1
1 20 2
0 30 5
Total 14
Percentage Missed Rate 21.21%

Table 4.3 shows the average percentage of seed damage from the

operation of the planter with 10 trials. The test resulted in an average of 9.08% of

damaged seed. Khan (2014) stated 5% damaged seeds is non-significant.

Bamgboye and Mofolasayo’s (2006) study is on a mechanized planter of okra

48
which resulted an average of 3.51% damaged seeds. Khan (2014) found a 2.2%

damaged seed for a pigeon pea planter. Higher percentage damage of seeds of

the present studies happened mainly because of the variability of sweet pea

sizes which causes some shearing between the metering disc and the rotating

metering wheel. Higher speeds of the planter were seen to contribute to seed

clogging in the seed hopper, increasing damaged seeds. 20 in (50 cm) drive

wheel used in the prototype is larger compared to the drive wheels of existing

literatures, 35-cm (Oduma, 2014) and 30-cm (Bamgboye & Mofolasayo, 2006).

Having a larger drive wheel results to a higher gear ratio, resulting to faster

rotational speed of the metering wheel. High speeds in the metering wheel

increases the percentage of damaged seeds when in operation. The mechanized

seed planter sweet pea was still relatively effective as it still discharged the

required number of good seeds as seen in Table 4.2.

Table 4.3 Percent Seed Damage

Damaged Good Percent Seed
Trial
Seeds (g) Seeds (g) Damage (%)
1 4.1 38.9 9.53
2 10.6 58.7 15.30
3 1.6 48.9 3.17
4 5.1 53.9 8.64
5 3.9 57.0 6.40
6 4.4 46.9 8.58
7 4.2 51.0 7.61
8 6.7 56.7 10.57
9 7.9 58.0 11.99
10 5.9 59.7 8.99

49
 Average Percent Seed Damage (%) 9.08

Field Test of the Mechanized Seed Planter

The field test was done on an agricultural farm in Balaoan, La Union. The

length and width of the testing field was 15m and 1.67m, respectively. The total

land area on which the planter was tested was 25 sq. m.

The effective field capacity of the planter is defined as the area covered by

the planter per unit time. Thus, for the measurement of the effective field

capacity, the area covered by the planter in one row for a particular time has

been calculated.

The result for the field capacity test is presented in Table 4.4. The time for

every stoppage was recorded, and the total trial time was also recorded. Thus,

the actual planting time was obtained by deducting the total stoppage time from

the total trial time. The calculation for the field capacity is shown below:

𝑃𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐶𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 =
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒

Trial 1:

25 𝑠𝑞. 𝑚. 3600
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐶𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 = ×
173.67 𝑠 10000

𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐶𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 = 0.0518 ℎ𝑎/ℎ𝑟

Trial 2:

50
 25 𝑠𝑞. 𝑚. 3600
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐶𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 = ×
154.76 𝑠 10000

𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐶𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦 = 0.0518 ℎ𝑎/ℎ𝑟

For the first trial, it took a total of 173.67 seconds to cover the whole area,

while it took 154.76 seconds for the second trial. The effective field capacity was

recorded as 0.0518 and 0.0582 ha/hr for the first and second trial, respectively.

The average field capacity is 0.0550 ha/hr.

Basing on the test results, the planter can cover a large area under a

small amount of time. The data also justifies the goal of the researchers to

improve work ergonomics, lessen time of seed preparation, and plant effectively

and efficiently.

The field efficiency was found by taking the percentage of the actual

planting time with regards to the total time of usage of the planter. The total time

of usage of the planter included the time used in preparation of seeds, refilling

seeds, turning at field end, stoppage due to various reasons, and actual planting

of seeds. The test results are shown in Table 4.4.

𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒

𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 =
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒

Trial 1:

138.67 𝑠
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 =
173.67 𝑠

𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 = 79.85%

51
 Trial 2:

121.84 𝑠
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 =
154.76 𝑠

𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 = 78.73%

The first trial yielded a field efficiency of 79.85%, while the second trial

yielded 78.73%. The average field efficiency is 79.29%. This compares favorably

with field efficiencies of 71-78% as obtained by Oduma (2014) and Iya (2010).

The satisfactory result may be due to the planter’s maneuverability, which saves

time in turning or moving the planter from one point to another.

Table 4.4 Field Capacity and Efficiency Test Results

Trial 1 Trial 2 Unit
Turning at field end 6.09 6.79 S
Fillings of Seed Hopper 3.36 6.53 S
Other stoppage 25.55 19.6 S
Actual Planting 138.67 121.84 S
Total Time 173.67 154.76 S
Field Efficiency 79.85% 78.73%
Field Capacity 0.0518 0.0582 ha/hr
Time to finish planting
11.578 10.3173 min
100 sq.m.

Speed of Planter 0.7788 0.8864 km/hr

The test on planting depth is to determine whether the planter satisfies the

parameters of planting sweet peas in Bokod. The results are shown in Table 4.5.

These were obtained by measuring the hole made by the furrower of the planter.

52
The feed hopper was empty during the test and the researchers used steel tape

to measure the depth on a flat field which is similar to the fields of Bokod.

However, results may vary on a sloped field. With an average of 2.6375 cm

planting depth for the 16 trials, the results show that the planter satisfies the

standard of the Bokod farmers in terms of the planting depth of beans which is 2-

3 cm (refer to Appendix A). Source of data variations may be traced from speed

of the planter, planting time and planter’s stoppage factors.

Table 4.5 Planting Depth

Trial Planting Depth (cm)
1 3.0
2 2.5
3 2.6
4 3.5
5 3.1
6 2.4
7 3.0
8 3.1
9 2.2
10 2.2
11 2.4
12 2.8
13 2.3
14 1.9
15 3.2
16 2.0
Average 2.6375

53
Maintenance of the Mechanized Seed Planter

Maintenance procedures for the mechanized seed planter were done

before and after using the planter. This is to ensure the functionality of the

mechanized seed planter for its longer life span. The procedures were based on

Figures 4.4 and 4.5.

Proper maintenance is the key to achieving longer seed planter life. Thus,

various inspections on the planter are to be made before and after using the

planter.

Before using the planter, the first inspection to be made is to check for the

presence of visible foreign substances on the planter. If there is, it must first be

removed. Next is to check the air pressure of the tire. If it is lacking, pump air to

the tire until the pressure is of the desirable amount. Also, lubricate the chains by

applying grease to assure smooth operation of the planter.

54
55
 After using the planter, the dust, mud, and other foreign substances must

be removed. If the paint is fading or starts to chip, repaint the planter as the paint

also serves as protection apart from aesthetic purposes. The chains must also be

well-lubricated before storing so that it will not be stuck once it is reused.

56
Bill of Materials

The budget used in the research, particularly in the fabrication of one unit

of mechanized seed planter, is presented in Table 4.6. It considered the amount

of money that the farmers of Bokod, Benguet are willing to spend on the planter,

which was found from the results of the interviews with them (Appendix A).

Table 4.6 Bill of Materials

Unit of
Item Description Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost
Measurement
Bearing 2 pc P 120.00 P 240.00
Cutting Disc 3 pcs P 100.00/ 3 pc P 100.00
Flat Bar
1 pc P 100.00 P 100.00
1/8”
Iron Pipe
1 pc P 250.00 P 250.00
1”
Galvanized Iron Sheet
1 pc P 280.00 P 280.00
1/8”
Grinding Disc 1 pc P 50.00 P 50.00
Mild Steel Angle Bar 1
P 320.00 P 320.00
20’ x ½” x ½” x 1/8” pc
Rivets P 22.50
30 pcs P 0.75
1/8” x ½”
Spray Paint for metal 1 bottle P 120.00 P 120.00
Sprocket and Chain
set
1 pc P 500.00 P 500.00
6 cm and 16 cm
sprocket
Welding Rod 1 kilo P 80.00 P 80.00
Wheel
1 pc P 150.00 P 150.00
40 cm

P 2,212.50
GRAND TOTAL

57
 Chapter 5 – Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Summary and Conclusions

The development of the mechanized seed planter was carried out with the

aim of achieving efficient seed planting based on the preferences of the farmers

in Bokod, Benguet. The mechanized seed planter is a solution to the difficulties

that the farmers face in their everyday work; it contributes significantly in

improving the planting ergonomics and planting time. Fabrication is also cost

effective as the materials used were locally available. The planter is able to

mechanize the farmer’s traditional way of farming, making their jobs easier as

they would not spend much time planting in the field.

Based on the gathered data in the pre-test investigation, it is determined

that the planter is able to discharge seeds 3.308 kg/h at a slow pace to prevent

clogging. The planter was able to discharge the recommended number of seeds

per hole but with a percentage missed rate of 21.21% due to clogging at the

metering mechanism and differences in planter speed. The 9.08% average seed

damage could also be attributed to high planter speeds and uneven terrain.

The mechanized seed planter was found to operate at a field capacity of

0.0550 ha/hr and have an average field efficiency of 79.29%. The average

planting depth is 2.6375 cm. The planter was able to effectively meter an
average of 3 seeds per hill with minimum damage to the seeds, and this

corresponds to the requirement that the farmers suggested.

Overall performance of the low cost manually operated mechanized seed

planter was relatively satisfactory. Therefore, the planter may be accepted for

demonstration and use.

Recommendations

The following are the recommendations of the researchers for the

improvisation of the operation of the mechanized seed planter by the future

researchers:

1. Find the optimum speed at which the planter may be ran to achieve

minimal seed damage and suitable seed-to-seed spacing.

2. Create a multi-row seed planter to increase the field capacity.

3. Design the planter to have a removable metering wheel so as to cater

different kinds of seeds.

4. Resolve the problem in the bulking of seeds in the planter for better

dispensing of the seeds to the wheel.

5. Add test for the uniformity of spacing after seed germination. The

distances between successive seedlings within the row will be

determined for the whole area of land planted. All operational and

adjustment problems can then be detected and ratified during the field

operation of the planter.

59
6. Focus in improving the percentage missed rate and percentage seed

damage of the planter. The design of the cell at the periphery of the

metering wheel can be changed to suit better the mechanism’s

process and eventually improve the planter’s operation.

60
 Appendix A

Interview Questions

Respondents: Kapitan, farmer’s leader, farmers

Record each interview

Get contact details at the end of interview

Ask for the following:

*Things to consider/possible factors for the improvement of the current design.
 Total number of farmers
 Standards for planting
o Spacing of seeds
o Volume of seeds used per area of land
o Spacing of rows
o Preparation of land before planting (e.g. tilling)
o Seed preparation (e.g. cleaning)
o Depth of planting the seeds
o Number of seed/s per hole
o Fertilizer used
o Total area of land used for planting:
 Earnings in planting
*Besides from the seed planter, is there any other tools used in planting the
farm?
*What are your suggestions with regards to the design of the seed planter
(parts/things to alter and/or add)?
*How much would you be willing to pay for a mechanized seed planter?
*Willingness in participating and giving feedback for the improvement of design.

61
Summary of Interviews
October 6, 2018
From farmers of Brgy. Bila, Bokod, Benguet
Interviewee: Kgd. Reynaldo Mendoza
Contact No.: 0928 3081 913
 Standards for planting
Kind of Crops planted – Corn, Peanut, Peas, High Valued Crops (Cauli,
Cabbage, Tomato)
Spacing of seeds – 5” for Peanut, 1’ for Corn
Volume of seeds used per area of land
Spacing of rows – 1 ft
Preparation of land before planting – tilling of soil, formation of plot (for
high valued crops), basal (application of fertilizer) for HVC
Seed preparation – no seed preparation, they are directly planted from
purchase
Depth of planting the seeds – 1” for beans & peas
Number of seed/s per hole – 2 seeds for corn
Fertilizer used – chicken manure, compost
Total area of land used for planting – 1 hectare

 Earnings in Planting – depends on the season, usually P30,000.00 –

P50,000.00

 Other tools used in planting – kuliglig (motorized cultivator), kalabaw,

gabyon

 Suggestions regarding the design of the seed planter – ‘Sana pwede

gulpihan ilagay yung mga seeds at pwede iadjust yung bilang ng
buto na lalabas depende sa kailangan at sa klase ng tanim. Sana may
guide for distance para sa pantay na distribution of seeds.’
‘A machine for planting seedlings of HVC can be introduced to us
farmers of Bila kagaya ng palay-planter.’
 Amount to willfully pay for a mechanized planter – P 20, 000.00

 Willingness to participate in giving feedback for an improved design – YES

62
Interviewee: Agustina C. Madilat
Contact No.: 0910 359 6864
 Standards for planting
Kind of crops planted – Cauli, Tomato, Beans
Orientation of field – Flat (Terraces)
Spacing of seeds – 5” for beans, 10” for cauli
Volume of seeds used per area of land
Spacing of rows – 5” (square) for beans, 12” or wider for cauli for the
leaves to grow
Preparation of land before planting – tilling/cultivate, formation of plot
(kama – 10” to 12” height)
Seed preparation – no seed preparation; beans, peanuts and corn are
directly planted from purchase
Depth of planting the seeds – 3” for beans, ½” for cauli
Number of seed/s per hole – 2 seeds per corner for beans (square)
Fertilizer used - granules
Total area of land used for planting – 500m2

 Earnings in Planting – P 10,000.00 / 3 days of harvest

 Other tools used in planting – kalabaw for cultivation

 Suggestions regarding the design of the seed planter – ‘adjustment sa

lumalabas na bilang ng mga buto sa isang ‘pull’ sa seed planter’

 Amount to willfully pay for a mechanized planter – P 40, 000.00

 Willingness to participate in giving feedback for an improved design – YES

 Time to do manual labor for planting – with 5 laborers; 2 days

cultivation & 2 days plantation

63
Interviewee: Nancy Pares
Contact No.: 0928 3081 913 c/o Kgd.
 Standards for planting
Kind of crops planted - Tomato
Spacing of seeds – 4”
Volume of seeds used per area of land
Spacing of rows – 4”
Preparation of land before planting – tilling of the soil
Seed preparation – ‘bunubon’ of seedling for 30 days then transplant
Depth of planting the seeds – 1”
Number of seed/s per hole – 1
Fertilizer used – granules
Total area of land used for planting – 500 m2

 Earnings in Planting – breakeven lang sa profit, not much

 Other tools used in planting – kuliglig

 Suggestions regarding the design of the seed planter – maramihan na

paglabas ng seed sa iba’t ibang butas

 Amount to willfully pay for a mechanized planter – (undecided because

she was the caretaker of the field, her son is the one who started the

plantation and is in charge on the purchase of the new kuliglig)

 Willingness to participate in giving feedback for an improved design – YES

64
Interviewee: Romeo Saguid
Contact No.: c/o Kgd. William Saguid
 Standards for planting
Kinds of crops planted – Carrots, Beans
Spacing of seeds – 8”
Volume of seeds used per area of land
Spacing of rows – 4”
Preparation of land before planting – cultivation of soil, digging of holes
Seed preparation – no seed preparation; they are directly planted from
purchase
Depth of planting the seeds – 2”
Number of seed/s per hole – 3 to 4 seeds
Fertilizer used – none
Total area of land used for planting – 500 m2

 Earnings in Planting – P 30,000.00 – P 50,000.00

 Other tools used in planting – gabion, kalabaw

 Suggestions regarding the design of the seed planter – ‘bultuhan ang

paglagay ng mga buto at isa-isang mahuhulog kada baril sa seed

planter’

 Amount to willfully pay for a mechanized planter – P 15 000.00

 Willingness to participate in giving feedback for an improved design – YES

65
Interviewee: Edgar Caparas (President of the Farmer’s Association)
Contact No.: 0948 1526 363
 Standards for planting
Kinds of crops planted – Cauli, Tomato, Broccoli, Beans, Sweet Peas,
Carrots
Spacing of seeds – 1’ for Tomato, 6” for beans
Volume of seeds used per area of land
Spacing of rows – 1’
Preparation of land before planting – tilling/cultivation of soil, formation
of plot, digging of holes
Seed preparation - bunubon for cauli, broccoli, tomato; direct planting
for beans & sweet peas
Depth of planting the seeds – 1 ½” or 2”
Number of seed/s per hole – 4 to 6 seeds
Fertilizer used – chicken manure, granules
Total area of land used for planting – 500 m2

 Earnings in Planting

 Other tools used in planting – kalabaw, kuliglig, gabion

 Suggestions regarding the design of the seed planter – not available; he

was not able to use the seed planter

 Amount to willfully pay for a mechanized planter – UNDECIDED

 Willingness to participate in giving feedback for an improved design – YES

66
 Appendix B

Questionnaire

67
Answered Questionnaires

68
69
70
71
 Appendix C
Seed Metering Wheel

Seed Metering House

72
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 Overview of the Study

Planting seed vegetables has been a common agricultural livelihood in

Bokod, Benguet. Farmers’ traditional way of planting seeds that uses repeated or

prolonged bending and reaching for seeding on the ground often leads to strain

injuries over a period of time. It has been that way until recently when mechanical

engineering department made an outreach project providing the farmers a

mechanical-aided tool for seed planting. However, criticisms on limited

mechanism the seed planter provides have geared towards a need for the

improvement of its existing design. The research will further improve the

ergonomics of planting and will make processes of planting faster and easier

based on the community’s specific needs and current situation.

Enhancement of the traditional way of seed planting outcomes a

standardization of seed planting through accessible and cost-effective planter

(tractor, in contrast, is expensive for a farmer and incapable to enter on terraces

where the seeds are planted) and eliminating overworked hours for farmers

especially during hottest hours of the day.