Development of an electronic profilometer to measure mobilization variables in soil harrowing

Abstract

Aim of study: This experiment's objective is to develop an automatic data acquisition system for profilometry, evaluating four harrowing speeds. Area of study: Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Brazil. Material and methods: We experimented at the laboratory using a completely randomized design, comparing the data of modified roughness, raised and mobilized area, blistering, and thickness. These were acquired with traditional and electronic profilometers in seven replications. We executed the field test in lines, using a completely randomized design. The profilometers were in the plots and the targeted speeds in the subplots. We submitted the data for analysis of variance and when significant, to Tukey's test and regression analysis. Main results: Laboratory testing showed no significant difference in the parameters of modified roughness, elevated and mobilized area, blistering, and thickness, denoting the phase validation that indicates applicability in the field. The field testing presented superior results for the electronic profilometer in elevated and mobilized areas and soil layer thickness. That is due to the absence of interference in the measurements that occur in the conventional profilometer caused by the insertion of the rods in the soil. Research highlights: The increase in the mechanized set speed provided the reduction of the elevated area and soil blistering caused by the rise in disc rotation and consequent deviation of the soil particles.