Development of Mechatronic Systems for Targeted Division and Selection of Seed Material
Authors:   Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University, Aliiev Elchyn , Aliieva Olha ,   Institute of Oilseed Crops of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine, Govorukha Volodymyr ,   Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University, Kobets Oleksandr ,   Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University
Published: February 2025

One of the key stages in seed material processing is sorting, as seed mixtures typically contain impurities of various origins. These impurities include stems, leaves, mineral inclusions, weed seeds, and damaged seeds of the primary crop. Seed sorting, as a subtask of separation, relies on the physical differences between the components of the mixture. The main physical characteristics of seeds include size, shape, weight, color, density, and others. These properties determine the parameters of modern seed cleaning equipment, influencing its design and operational efficiency. Modern separation methods based on physical and mechanical properties have been reviewed, focusing on aerodynamic characteristics (pneumatic columns), size (screens of various shapes), density (pneumo-vibratory separators), elasticity, electrophysical properties (dielectric separators), and color (photo separators). Technological lines for the separation of small-seeded crops have been presented, taking these parameters into account. The designs of adaptive aerodynamic, vibratory screen, vibro-pneumatic separators, selective seed graders, and photoelectronic separators have been described in detail. These machines are equipped with sensors, electric motors, control units, and software, enabling enhanced productivity and separation quality. For instance, an adaptive aerodynamic separator ensures uniform airflow, promoting efficient mixture separation, while the vibro-pneumatic separator can automatically adjust the inclination of the working surface to optimize the process. The integration of adaptive mechatronic systems into primary seed production processes significantly improves seed quality, reduces energy consumption, and ensures the flexibility of technological lines. Research results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed designs, fostering the development of modern methods for seed material separation. Furthermore, the development and implementation of these advanced systems align with the increasing demand for high-quality seeds in agriculture. The use of adaptive mechatronic systems allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment of separation processes, minimizing human intervention and errors. This not only enhances the precision of sorting but also contributes to sustainable practices by reducing waste and energy usage. In conclusion, the evolution of seed sorting technologies underscores the importance of innovation in agricultural machinery. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as photoelectric sorting and pneumatic systems, the agricultural industry can meet the growing challenges of productivity, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The adoption of these advanced systems promises to elevate the standards of seed processing, ensuring better yields and more sustainable farming practices worldwide.