Coupled RecurDyn-EDEM simulation and experimental analysis of a precision fertilization device

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Soil Science
• Precision Agriculture

Background:

• Increasing orchard areas and fruit production in China highlight challenges with imprecise powdered organic fertilizer application.
• Low application precision leads to fertilizer waste and reduced crop yields, necessitating improved application technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and optimize a specialized grooved-wheel fertilizer discharge device for pit fertilization machines.
• To enhance the precision and efficiency of powdered organic fertilizer application in orchards.

Main Methods:

• A RecurDyn-EDEM coupled simulation model was developed to analyze fertilizer discharge.
• Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to optimize operational (dial plate speed) and structural (scraper inclination angle) parameters.
• Fertilizer application rate (deposited mass/total discharged mass) was the key evaluation index.

Main Results:

• Optimal parameters identified: dial plate speed of 64.3 r/min and scraper inclination angle of -17.3°.
• Under optimal conditions, single application amount reached 637.98 g with a fertilizer application rate of 97.57%.
• Bench tests showed a minimal deviation of 2.11% from simulation results at optimal parameters.

Conclusions:

• The designed grooved-wheel fertilizer discharge device effectively improves the precision of powdered organic fertilizer application.
• The integrated approach of theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and bench testing validates the device's performance.
• This research offers valuable insights for designing innovative powdered organic fertilizer applicators for orchards, particularly in Southwest China's hilly regions.