Targeting optimal power consumption: Optimizing operational parameters for orchard furrowing and fertilizing machine

In response to the problem of excessive power consumption during the furrowing operation of orchard furrowing fertilizer machines, an optimization experiment of furrowing operation parameters for orchard furrowing fertilizer machine was conducted based on discrete element simulations. This research focused on the impact of furrowing device operation parameters on furrowing power consumption under full machine operating conditions. Firstly, a kinematics analysis of the soil granules during cutting was done. The mathematical model of soil granules through three movement processes of rising, detachment, and falling was established to determine the main factors affecting the power consumption of furrowing. Secondly, in assessing the furrowing power consumption, the stability coefficient of the furrowing depth, and the percentage of soil cover, alongside the key parameters of furrowing depth, forward propulsion velocity, and furrowing blade rotation speed, a comprehensive quadratic orthogonal rotation regression experiment was meticulously conducted. It was established that test metrics and test parameters regress. Finally, the test parameters were comprehensively optimized after analyzing each factor's impact on the test metrics. The orchard furrowing fertilizer machine's optimal operating parameters were determined, and the verification test was performed. According to the field test findings, the forward propulsion velocity was 785 m/h, and the furrowing blade rotation speed was 190 r/min when the furrowing depth was 275 mm. At this point, the furrowing power consumption was 2.39 kW, the soil cover percentage was 69.06%, and the furrowing depth stability coefficient was 95.08%. These results were in line with the requirements of orchard furrowing operation. The findings of the study can be utilized as a guide for structural changes to orchard furrowing equipment and the management of furrowing operation parameters.