Evaluation of monitoring systems for seeder seed spacing uniformity

Abstract

Proper seed placement in the soil is crucial for optimal germination and initial plant growth during the seeding operation. Ideally, seeds should be positioned at a predetermined and uniform spacing and depth. However, in practice, there is often a significant deviation from the desired seed placement.Research on a seed flow detection device for seed metering systems of seeders is highly important. It ensures monitoring of the seeding rate, detects missed seeding, allows real-time reseeding during the precision seeding process, and increases overall precision seeding intelligence. Achieving a uniform distribution of seeds in a furrow maximizes the growing area for each plant and enhances yields by reducing competition among neighboring plants. Furthermore, uniform seed placement helps in weed suppression. Precision agriculture plays a crucial role in optimizing crop yield and resource efficiency, and accurate seed spacing is a fundamental aspect of this practice. This paper provides a concise overview of monitoring systems designed to ensure seed spacing uniformity in seeders, addressing the challenges associated with traditional methods and highlighting the advancements in technology. The review encompasses various sensor technologies, including optical, piezoelectric, radio wave, and computer vision-based systems, which enable real-time monitoring of seed placement during the seeding process. The integration of these monitoring systems with seeders allows for instant feedback and adjustment, minimizing the risk of uneven seed distribution. The synthesis of information from recent studies and technological developments underscores the significance of continuous research and innovation in monitoring systems for achieving optimal seed spacing uniformity in modern agriculture.