Development of a Double Row Tractor Operated Yam Minisett Planter

Abstract

Drudgery in manual yam minisett planting was identified as a major constraint facing yam cultivation in Ghana. The main objective of the study was to develop a double row yam minisett (DRYM) planter using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A potato planter was adopted and modified to suit the design of DRYM planter. The main task was to perform 3D modeling of the planter major components using FEA method. Analysis of systems (ANSYS) software was used for FEA. Minisett and soil physical properties were factored into the design processes. Total deformation and equivalent (Von-Mises) stress were 0.442 mm and 7.37 MPa for hopper; 0.01 mm and 9.18 MPa for ridger bottom and that of furrow opener were 1.8-0.6 mm and 6.27 MPa, respectively. Maximum total deformation and equivalent (Von-Mises) stress were below material specification of 50 mm and 250 MPa for structural steel, and 20 mm and, 440 MPa for mild steel, respectively. The study concluded that the entire design was within the material property and permissible stress limits of the materials used. Yam planter development will enhance farmer satisfaction.