International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 11 | Nov 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
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Fabrication of a Low-Cost Mechanical Seed Planter Jayvant Navnath Mane 1, Suraj Dagdu Pawar 2, Vijaykumar Kerba Mane3, Dipak S. Patil4 1,2,3,4Department of Mechanical Engineering G H Raisoni College of Engineering and Management, Wagholi, Pun,
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Abstract - Agricultural productivity in India is limited due
With India’s large and rapidly growing population, agriculture continues to be crucial for sustainable development. Conventional manual practices are still widely used, but they are time-consuming, costly, and result in significant seed wastage, especially on larger farms. Hence, there is an urgent need for mechanization to reduce labour involvement, increase productivity, and ensure timely completion of farm operations. This Work addresses the needs of small-scale farmers and focuses on developing a low-cost, automated machine for optimizing ploughing and seed-sowing operations. Although it may not be as versatile as tractors, it is significantly more affordable and can save valuable time, allowing farmers to pursue other incomegenerating activities without compromising agricultural productivity. Several researchers have contributed to the advancement of seed-sowing technologies aimed at improving efficiency, precision, and productivity. Manually operated and automated machines—such as okra planters, paddy seeders, and jab planters—have shown moderate improvements in field capacity, reduced seed damage, and lower labour requirements. Innovations such as disc-type and pneumatic seeders have improved user comfort and operational efficiency, while robotic systems equipped with sensors monitor soil conditions to optimize seed placement and resource utilization. Traditional sowing methods, such as manually dropping seeds into furrows created by ploughs, often result in poor control over seed depth, inconsistent spacing, and considerable seed wastage. Many seeds remain uncovered or are lost due to erosion, animals, or weather conditions, leading to low germination rates and overseeding issues, which negatively affect crop yield due to competition for resources. The invention of the seed drill marked a major technological breakthrough by enabling uniform seed depth and proper soil coverage, significantly improving germination and overall yield [1]. Multiple researchers have developed innovative seed-sowing machines to enhance planting efficiency, minimize seed loss, and reduce labour costs. These include autonomous and manually operated devices, solar-powered systems, and robots controlled by microcontrollers or smartphones. Key advancements include the use of sensors, adjustable seedmetering mechanisms, and integration with fertilizer and pesticide dispensing systems. The materials used are costeffective and suitable for small-scale farming. Overall, these innovations emphasize precision sowing, affordability, ease of use, and adaptability to various seed types and farming conditions [2]. Several studies underline the importance of technological innovations in seed-sowing equipment to improve agricultural productivity. Researchers highlight that
to the dependence of small-scale farmers on traditional, laborintensive methods. Modern machinery is often too expensive or too bulky for marginal farmers who own less than one hectare of land. This research focuses on the fabrication of a low-cost mechanical seed planter aimed at improving sowing performance, reducing labor, and ensuring uniform seed placement. The use of locally available materiasls and simple fabrication methods helps reduce the overall cost, making the machine more accessible to small farmers. The design, which integrates a seed hopper, metering mechanism, furrow opener, and covering device, ensures both precision and efficiency in sowing. Field testing is conducted to validate performance parameters such as seed spacing, depth accuracy, and time savings. Key Words: Seed Planter, Agricultural Mechanization, Seed Sowing machine
1. INTRODUCTION The demand for food is expected to exceed production capabilities due to the increasing population and rising per capita food consumption. Mere expansion of farmland is not sufficient; higher yields from the existing agricultural land must be ensured. India has made some progress in this direction, yet many small-scale and low-income farmers continue to rely on out dated and time-consuming methods because they cannot afford expensive modern machinery. These farmers typically own less than 1 hector of land and depend on manual labour or cattle for ploughing and sowing. In contrast, farmers in developed countries can cultivate hundreds of acres using advanced machinery. Because farming is labour-intensive and plays a vital role in national growth and development, engineers have attempted to reduce human effort by mechanizing farm operations. Researchers have explored several innovative approaches, including mechanical and solar-powered systems, seedmetering technologies, and Adriano-based automated sensor systems. India, being predominantly an agricultural nation with nearly 75% of its population dependent on farming, still practices largely out dated techniques. Poor mechanization and low power availability are key reasons for low agricultural productivity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop efficient, modern machinery for operations such as sowing, spraying, weeding, and similar tasks to enhance productivity and support multiple cropping cycles. To achieve this goal, agricultural machines must be properly designed and adapted to suit specific crop requirements.
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