DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF MAIZE PLANTER FOR

SMALL SCALE FARMING

DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF MAIZE PLANTER FOR SMALL SCALE
FARMING

By
Jerome V. Chipanda

The Project Book Submitted in Partial/Fulfillment of the Requirements for

Award of the Bachelor Degree of Mechanical Engineering at Mbeya University
of Science and Technology

July, 2024
 CERTIFICATION

The undersigned certifies that he has read and hereby recommends for acceptance by Mbeya
University of Science and Technology a project entitled: “Design and fabrication of maize
planter”, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor in Mechanical
Engineering of Mbeya University of Science and Technology.

………………………………….
MR. E. TWEVE
(Supervisor)

Date: ……………………….

Accepted for Board of College of Engineering and Technology

Signature ………………….
PRINCIPAL/DIRECTOR

Date …………………………………..

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 DECLARATION

AND

COPYRIGHT

I, JEROME V CHIPANDA declare that this project is my own original work and that it has
not been presented and will not be presented to any other University for similar or any other
degree award.

Signature …………………….

This project is a copyright material protected under the Berne Convention, the Copyright Act
1999 and other international and national enactments, on that behalf, on intellectual property,
it may not be produced by any means in full or in part, except for short extract in fair dealings,
for research or private study, critical scholarly review or discourse with an acknowledgment,
without the written permission of Mbeya University of Science and Technology, on behalf of
the Author.

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

First of all, I would like to give special thanks to my first and foremost be unto the Almighty
God for the good health and enlightenment.
The success of any report depends largely on the encouragement and guidelines of our
supervisors and others. Let me take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to those
who have contributed to the successful completion of this project work.

I would also like to acknowledge our Project coordinator Mr. EVANS TWEVE for his
guidance and support in preparing this work.
I would like to express my gratitude to all staff members of Mbeya University of Science and
Technology, especially the Mechanical Engineering Department staff, for their good
accessibility whenever they were needed for consultation, I’m obliged to remember the Mbeya
University of Science and Technology library staff for being responsible to their work and
lovely supports during materials accessing.
Lastly, special thanks to all my relations and friends who have one way or another contributed
to the success of this stage of project work. May God bless them all.

iii
 DEDICATION

Considering the Lord's effort in my life, I would like to dedicate this project proposal to my
Lord God because he is the one to make everything succeed. I would like also to dedicate to
my whole family as part of my great thanks to them for my full support to my education to
succeed on my journey to be a Mechanical Engineer.

Also, I dedicate this work to my friends and all the people who touch my heart in different
ways. I a special feelings of gratitude to my loving and caring parents Job and Teachers who
have always loved me unconditionally their examples have taught me to work hard for things
that I aspire to achieve and their words of encouragement always ring in my ear, May God
bless you all for the support you have in my life.

iv
 ABSTRACT

Manual maize planting remains labour-intensive and inefficient, hindering productivity and
impacting livelihoods. In the present scenario, most of countries do not have sufficient skilled
manpower in the agricultural sector and that affects the growth of developing countries.
Therefore, farmers have to use upgraded technology for cultivation activity (digging, seed
sowing, fertilizing, spraying. So it’s time to automate the sector to overcome this problem
which in turn will also eliminate the requirement of labourers and also avoid the wastage of
time.

This project focuses on the design and fabrication of a specialized machine for planting maize
efficiently and accurately.
The machine integrates advanced engineering principles to automate the planting process,
optimizing seed placement and spacing while enhancing productivity. Key aspects include the
development of a robust mechanical system, incorporation of precision planting mechanisms,
and integration of user-friendly controls. The proposed maize planting machine aims to address
challenges associated with manual planting methods, offering farmers a reliable solution to
enhance crop yield and efficiency in agricultural operations.
The significance of this project is to reduce manpower and time required for Maize planting
and also it would increase efficiency in line spacing as well as increase maize former and it is
production.
In the completion of this project methodology such as interviews, observation, literature review
and consultation were used for the collection of data and information necessary for the project.
In general, this project is vital for increasing the production of maize in our country so I
recommend multiple maize planter tractors to be developed and another machine for adding
value to the maize before being exported to be designed such as grading, de-stoner, and
packaging machine.
Maize cultivation is popularity now a day in our country because of the multifarious use of
maize in human food and especially in the poultry industries. Maize is cultivated manually
which is time-consuming, labour intensive and costly. A low cost manually operated push-type
maize planter was designed and the planter consists of two supportive wheels behind the
planter, a seed hopper, a vertical plate-type seed metering device, a seed tube, a pair of bed
former and a handle. Power was transmitted from the ground wheels to the metering device
through gear.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................................. i

DECLARATION .................................................................................................................. ii

AND ..................................................................................................................................... ii

COPYRIGHT ....................................................................................................................... ii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT ...................................................................................................... iii

DEDICATION ..................................................................................................................... iv

ABSTRACT ......................................................................................................................... v

LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................... ix

LIST OF FIGURES .............................................................................................................. x

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................. xi

CHAPTER ONE ................................................................................................................... 1

1.0 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Problem Statement .......................................................................................................... 2

1.2 Expected Solution ........................................................................................................... 3

1.3 Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 3

1.3.1 Main Objective ............................................................................................................. 3

1.3.2 Specific Objective ........................................................................................................ 3

1.4 Scope and Limitation of the Project ................................................................................. 3

1.5 Significance of the Project ............................................................................................... 4

CHAPTER TWO .................................................................................................................. 5

2.0 Literature Review ............................................................................................................ 5

2.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 5

2.1.1 Maize ........................................................................................................................... 5

2.1.2 Nutritional Characteristics of Dry Maize ...................................................................... 6

2.1.3 Maize Planting Techniques which are being Used in Tanzania are as Follows .............. 6

2.1.4 Planter Classification .................................................................................................... 6

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2.1.5 The Number of Rows Planted ....................................................................................... 7

2.1.6 The Method of Attachment to, and the Type of Power Source ...................................... 7

2.1.7 The Type of Planting Machine Based on the Resultant Planting Pattern ........................ 7

Planters can be Broadly Classified as: ................................................................................... 7

2.1.8 Furrow Opening Devices .............................................................................................. 9

2.1.9 Tine Type Openers ..................................................................................................... 10

2.2.0 Bearing....................................................................................................................... 10

2.2.1 Standard Dimensions and Designations of Ball Bearings ............................................ 11

2.2.2 Chain Drive ................................................................................................................ 13

2.2.3 Project Gap................................................................................................................. 14

CHAPTER THREE............................................................................................................. 15

3.0 Methodology ................................................................................................................. 15

3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 15

3.1.0 Literature Review ....................................................................................................... 15

3.1.1 Methods that would be Used for Data Gathering......................................................... 15

3.1.2 Material and Components Selection............................................................................ 15

3.1.3 Summary of The Materials Selected ........................................................................... 16

3.1.4 Design Considerations ................................................................................................ 17

3.1.5 Assemble and Test Prototype ...................................................................................... 17

3.1.6 Prototype Performance Testing ................................................................................... 17

CHAPTER FOUR ............................................................................................................... 18

4.0 Results and Discussion .................................................................................................. 18

4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 18

4.2 Criteria to be Considered in the Selection of the Best Alternative .................................. 18

4.3 Design Alternative One ................................................................................................. 19

4.4 Design Alternative Two................................................................................................. 19

4.5 Design Alternative Three............................................................................................... 20

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4.6 Design Calculation ........................................................................................................ 23

4.6.1 Seed Hopper Design ................................................................................................... 23

4.6.2 Design of Shaft........................................................................................................... 24

4.6.3 Determination of the Shaft Diameter .......................................................................... 25

4.6.4 Bearing Selection ....................................................................................................... 27

4.6.5 Chain Design .............................................................................................................. 29

4.6.6 Design Procedures of Chains Drive ............................................................................ 29

4.6.6.1 Velocity Ratio of the Chain Drive ............................................................................ 30

4.6.7 Drive Wheel ............................................................................................................... 35

4.6.8 Metering Device ......................................................................................................... 35

4.6.9 Manufacturing Process ............................................................................................... 36

CHAPTER FIVE ................................................................................................................ 38

5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation.................................................................................. 38

5.1 Conclusion .................................................................................................................... 38

5.2 Recommendation........................................................................................................... 38

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................... 39

APPENDICES .................................................................................................................... 41

viii
 LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1 Principal Dimensions f or Radial Ball Bearing According To IS 2494-1974 ........ 12
Table 3.1 Parameters of Single Row Maize Planter ............................................................. 16
Table 3.2 Specification of Manually Operated Maize Planter .............................................. 16
Table 4.1 Score Table ......................................................................................................... 21
Table 4.2 Weight Factor Table ............................................................................................ 22
Table 4.3 Matrix Method Table ........................................................................................... 22
Table 4.4 Values of X and Y for Dynamically Loaded Bearings .......................................... 28
Table 4.5 Number of Teeth on the Smaller Sprocket ........................................................... 30
Table 4.6 Characteristics of Roller Chains According To IS: 2403 — 1991 ......................... 31
Table 4.7 Operation Sequence and Material Used ............................................................... 36

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1 Shows Farmers Planting Maize Locally With Hands ............................................ 2
Figure 2.1 Mwongozowa Kilimo Bora Cha Mahindi ............................................................. 5
Figure 2.2 Row Maize Planter for Tractor ............................................................................. 8
Figure 2.3 Aspero Double Compartment Drill Maize Planter................................................. 8
Figure 2.4 Sprockets and Chain ........................................................................................... 13
Figure 4.1 Planter with Round Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism .......................................... 19
Figure 3.2 Planter with Square Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism .......................................... 20
Figure 4.3 Planter with Belt Delivery Mechanism ............................................................... 21
Figure 4.5 Sprockets and Chain ........................................................................................... 29
Figure 4.6 Length of Chain ................................................................................................. 32

x
 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

Acronyms Description
ARI Uyole Agricultural Research Institute Uyole
Kg Kilogram
Kg/M3 Kilogram per meter cube
Kg/min Kilogram per minute
Min Minutes
N Newton
RPM Revolution Per Minutes

xi
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Planting is the process of placing (putting) seeds in the soil for good germination in the field.
The manual method of planting is a tedious job and results in inaccurate seed placement and
spacing and resulted in general body pain for the farmer Planter is a device which helps in the
placement of seeds in a desired position, thereby assisting the farmers in saving time and money
Maize sometimes referred to as corn is a popular staple food in Tanzania as well as an important
raw material for industries. It is processed in different forms as livestock feed. Maize is an
important source of carbohydrates, protein, iron, vitamin B, and minerals. Tanzanians and other
Africans consume maize as a starchy base in a wide variety of porridges, pastes, grits, and beer.
Fresh maize is eaten parched baked, roasted or boiled. Despite previous efforts, maize and other
seed planting in Tanzania is still largely traditional and manual, characterized by drudgery and
time wasting. In large farms, tractor-drawn planters are usually preferred, however, manually
powered planters are considered more economical and suitable for gardens and smallholder
farmers cultivating less than two hectares of land.
Sowing or planting began with the early men using the bare hands and later graduated to the
use of sticks then to the use of crude implements like cutlasses and hoes for planting and general
tillage operations. Efforts have been put in place to simplify human labour over time in sowing
seeds through the innovations of seed planters. (SOYOYE, 2020)
Manually Operated Template Row Planter
In the work of a manually operated template row planter was designed and developed to
improve planting efficiency and reduce the tediousness involved in manual planting method.
Also, it increased seed planting.
accuracy and it was made of durable and cheap material affordable for small-scale peasant
farmers. The operating, adjusting and maintaining principles were made simple for effective
handling by unskilled operators (farmers).
Manually Operated Multi-Crop Planter
worked on the design and fabrication of a manually operated planter sowing for different seeds.
It is cheap, easy to maintain and less labourious to use. The multi-crop planter has the capability
of delivering the seeds precisely with uniform depth in the furrow, and also with uniform
spacing between the seeds. The seed planter consists of the main frame, adjustable handle, seed
hopper, seed metering device, adjustable furrow opener, adjustable furrow closer, drive wheels,
seed tube and ball bearings. Most of these were fabricated from mild steel material, except for

1
the metering mechanism which was made from good quality nylon and the seed funnel tube,
which was made from rubber material. The seed metering device was designed to be
interchangeable to allow for the different varieties and types of seeds. The single-row manually
operated multi-crop planter is very simple to use, the various adjustments are made with ease,
and has reasonable efficiency.

1.1 Problem Statement

Manual sowing has the problem of not giving adequate spacing between row to row and plant
to plant leading to less population of crops than recommended by the agronomists. Also, there
is the problem of placing the seeds at the correct depth and correct soil coverage. Manual
sowing is time-consuming and costly. Hence, there is a need for an appropriate seed drill for
sowing. Sowing maize by hand increases production costs as extra man-hours are required for
thinning operation as excessive seeds are inevitably sown per hole in addition to drudgeries
and the boring nature of the work. The maize planters available in the market are imported,
designed to operate in large farms, expensive and not suited to local conditions Therefore more
profitable to develop a simple system that is manually operated single-row maize planter it is
easy to use less labour cost compared to traditional method. It can be operated by one person,
who completes its planting working within one pass on the prepaid field like seed-to-seed
distance, preparing bed row to row. It was affordable and easy to maintain which alleviated
these difficulties and thus, increased maize production in the rural areas.

Figure 1.1 Shows Farmers Planting Maize Locally With Hands(www.Mwongozo kilimo bora cha
mahind)

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1.2 Expected Solution

As mentioned earlier, Planting is one of the most significant aspects of problems in crop
cultivation. Sowing of seeds means planting the seed at a particular point and covering it with
soil. At that time, farmers have to plough the soil before one or two weeks of planting and also
have to plough the soil during sowing. This means that they have to plough the soil at least two
times during cultivation. Crop planting operation is the art of placing seeds in the soil to obtain
good germination and crop stands. Given various problems faced by the farmers mentioned in
Chapter 1 and the subsequent literature review, this project is aimed at developing Maize-
sowing machine. This machine can be utilized to sow Maize seeds with the accurate amount
of seeds with correct interspacing between the lines of the location of planting. It can be utilized
to incorporate different diameters of seeds according to the types of soils, different locations
of the fields and different climatic conditions.

1.3 Objectives

This project aims to design and fabricate a maize planter to reduce drudgery in crop production
and for use of peasant farmer

1.3.1 Main Objective

The main objective of this project is to design and fabricate of maize planter.

1.3.2 Specific Objective

Therefore, to achieve the main objective, the following are the specific objectives that help to
fulfil the stated main objective as follows;
i) To study existing maize planting machines,
ii) To design and fabricate the components (seed hopper, planter units, shafts, coulter
blades, seed tube, depth control wheel),
iii) To select materials and standard components (bearings, chains) and
iv) To assemble and test the prototype.

1.4 Scope and Limitation of the Project

The proper fabrication of the maize planter machine is completed to ensure the planting of right
amount of maize seed in the agricultural field. This maize planter machine has also a provision
to plant the seeds with correct interspacing between the lines of planting of crops.

3
1.5 Significance of the Project

It is easy to use less labour cost compared to traditional methods. It can be operated by one
person, which completes its planting working within one pass on the prepaid field like seed-to-
seed distance, preparing bed row to row. It was affordable and easy to maintain which
alleviated these difficulties and thus, increased maize production in the rural areas.

4
 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Literature Review

2.1 Introduction

To meet the needs and reduce the difficulties of maize farming for rural, small, and medium-
sized farmers, a self-propelled maize seeding machine has been produced with locally available
materials

2.1.1 Maize

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important grain crop in the world. It is introduced
relatively as a new crop in Tanzania, especially in the southern region. Every year 1.2 million
tons of maize is utilized, of which only 42% is produced in the country and the remaining is
imported from other countries. More than 90% of maize is used as poultry feed and the
remaining in the fish sector and as human food products. The country has a great potential to
improve and expand maize production. Maize is a crop with versatile uses and it has an
enormous market potential in Tanzania (M. A. Rabbani, M. M. Hossain, J. F. Asha and N. A.
Khan , 2016)

Figure 2.1 Mwongozowa Kilimo Bora Cha Mahindi(BSc Irrigation and water resources (SUA))

5
2.1.2 Nutritional Characteristics of Dry Maize
i. They give us a lot of energy in the form of calories which help us to maintain our
vitality.
ii. They contain little fat, but of a high quality and with many health benefits.
iii. They have high carbohydrate and fibre content.
iv. They are very high in carbohydrates, especially starches.
v. Because of their magnesium content, they help the contraction and relaxation of
muscles.
vi. Because of their iron content, they help prevent anaemia.
vii. Because of manganese, helps us keep in the proper state our brain and respiratory tract.
viii. For their content in B vitamins, particularly vitamin B3 and vitamin B, they help us get
energy from fat, protein and carbohydrate intake to properly grow and maintain our
defenses in good condition.

2.1.3 Maize Planting Techniques which are being Used in Tanzania are as Follows

i. Planting Maize by using panga which is used for digging holes, a planter throws a seed
into the hole and covers the seed by putting soil into the hole with his or her foot.
ii. Planting Maize by using a hand hoe which is used to make a line (slot) on the land,
other labour throw seeds on the line at a specified spacing, and other labour put
fertilizer between the seeds while the other labour covers the seed with fertilizer by
their feet.
Some Maize tend to use a rope which has nodes for seed control (distance between plant and
plant) during the planting process.

2.1.4 Planter Classification

Planting machines can be classified based on the following category
i. The number of rows planted in one pass of the machine;
ii. The method of attachment to and the type of power source used to propel the machine;
and
iii. The type of planting machine based on the resultant planting pattern.

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2.1.5 The Number of Rows Planted

The number of rows planted/holes punched per pass of the machine is directly related to how
many furrow openers it has. Machines can be classified as single-row, row five-row, or 40-
rowrows depending on the number of furrow openers.
2.1.6 The Method of Attachment to, and the Type of Power Source
Based on the power source used to provide the draft (i.e. the horizontal component of the force
required to propel the machine through the soil), planters can usually be classified as human,
animal or tractor-powered.
Methods of attachment are those that typically see the planter pulled by, pushed by or carried
and pulled by the power source.
Human-powered planters can typically be categorized as being either: hand-held/carried; or
pulled or pushed. Animal-powered planters are typically categorized as pulled. Tractor-
powered planters can generally be categorized as being trailed; semi-mounted; or
front/mid/rear mounted. Trailed planters are attached to, and pulled by, the tractor’s drawbar
hitch point. The machine requires its own transport/depth control wheels to provide the
additional support required.

2.1.7 The Type of Planting Machine Based on the Resultant Planting Pattern

Planters can be Broadly Classified as:

i. Broadcast Planters
Broadcast planters randomly distribute seeds on the soil surface. As the seeds are deposited on
the soil surface (i.e. not in furrows created by a furrow opener) an additional operation (e.g.
harrowing) may be needed to cover the seed. The use of a broadcast fertilizer spreader to
distribute seed on the soil surface is the most common example of the broadcast planter. This
type of planter is useful for establishing small seeds, particularly those with light requirements
for germination such as some pasture grasses.

7
 Figure 2.2 Row Maize Planter for Tractor (used Farm Equipment, Wengers)

ii. Drill Planters

Drill planters randomly drop seeds in furrows to form definite rows of established plants. This
type of planter uses a mass flow type seed meter and is extensively used for the establishment
of both winter and summer crops where there is no need to place plants equidistant down the
rows. For example, almost all cereal crops (oats, wheat, barley, etc.) are planted by drill type
planters.

Figure 2.3 Aspero Double Compartment Drill Maize Planter (used Farm Equipment, Wengers)

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 iii. Precision Planters
Precision planters accurately place single seeds or groups of seed almost equidistant apart along
a furrow. They are typically used to plant crops that require accurate control of plant
population, and spacing between and along the rows. Crops in this category include almost all
the horticultural crops and field crops such as sorghum, maize, sunflower, soybeans and cotton.
Precision seed metering systems giving a precision drill, hill drop or check row planting pattern
are used on this type of planting machine.

iv. Dibble/Punch Planters

Dibble planters place a seed or a number of seeds in discrete holes, rather than furrows, dug in
the seedbed. Typically, although not necessarily, the holes are equally spaced and aligned so
as to form rows. Hand-operated dibble planters are commonly used to establish crops
(particularly inter-crops) in small-scale, low-resource agricultural crop production systems
v. Specialized Planters
Specialized planters are those that do not plant seeds but rather whole plants (i.e. seedling trans
planters), plant stems (e.g. sugar cane whole stick or set type planters) or tubers (e.g. potato
planters).

2.1.8 Furrow Opening Devices

The furrow opener is the specific device that opens the furrow into which the seed is placed.
The opener may incorporate or enclose a portion of the seed delivery system and/or the seed
boot that facilitates seed placement in the furrow
Types of Furrow Opener
Most furrow openers can be broadly classified as a runner, concave disc, disc coulter, bio
blade, tine, punch or powered as shown in the figure
There is considerable design diversity within each type. The general action by which they
create a furrow or a hole (into which the seed is placed) differs but can be broadly described as
follows:
i. Runner type furrow openers tend to form a furrow by displacing soil downwards and
outwards (i.e. press out a furrow);
ii. Tine type furrow openers tend to open the furrow by displacing soil upwards and
outwards on both sides of the furrow (i.e. dig a furrow);

9
 iii. Concave disc type furrow openers tend to open a furrow by cutting and displacing soil
upwards and outwards to one side of the furrow (i.e. cut and dig a furrow);
iv. Disc coulter type furrow openers either ‘cut’, ‘cut and dig’ or ‘cut and press’ out a
furrow depending on the particular type employed;
v. Punch type furrow openers do not create a furrow but rather ‘punch’ a series in
individual holes into which the seed is placed (i.e. punch a hole by pushing small
volumes of soil downward and outwards);
vi. Powered type furrow openers tend to cut and till a narrow furrow into which the seed
is placed (i.e. cut and till a furrow);
vii. Bioblade type furrow openers tend to create a furrow by cutting and lifting soil; the
soil essentially falls back into place after seed placement (i.e. cut and lift).

2.1.9 Tine Type Openers

A wide range of tine type openers is used and an even wider range of names is used for
particular shapes/designs within this broad grouping. In general, tine openers have rake angles
(i.e. the angle made between the leading edge of the opener and the direction of travel) of less
than 90 degrees. Tine type openers tend to ‘dig’ a furrow by penetrating the soil and displacing
soil upward and outward to form a ‘U’ or ‘V’-shaped furrow. Under high surface residue
conditions, tine type openers need to be preceded by a soil and residue cutting device to cut the
surface residue.

2.2.0 Bearing

A bearing is a machine element which supports another moving machine element (known as a
journal). It permits a relative motion between the contact surfaces of the members while
carrying the load. A little consideration will show that due to the relative motion between the
contact surfaces, a certain amount of power is wasted in overcoming frictional resistance and
if the rubbing surfaces are in direct contact, there will be rapid wear. To reduce frictional
resistance and wear and in some cases to carry away the heat generated, a layer of fluid (known
as lubricant) may be provided. The lubricant used to separate the journal and bearing is usually
a mineral oil refined from petroleum, but vegetable oils, silicon oils, greases etc., may be used.
(R.S.KHURMI, 2005).

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2.2.1 Standard Dimensions and Designations of Ball Bearings

The dimensions that have been standardised on an international basis are shown in the table
below. These dimensions are a function of the bearing bore and the series of bearings. The
standard dimensions are given in millimetres. There is no standard for the size and number of
steel balls.
The bearings are designated by a number. In general, the number consists of at least three digits.
Additional digits or letters are used to indicate special features e.g. deep groove, filling notch
etc. The last three digits give the series and the bore of the bearing. The last two digits from 04
onwards, when multiplied by 5, give the bore diameter in millimetres. The third from the last
digit designates the series of the bearing. The most common ball bearings are available in four
series. The following table shows the principal dimensions for radial ball bearings.
(R.S.KHURMI, 2005)

11
Table 2.1 Principal Dimensions f or Radial Ball Bearing According To IS 2494-1974
(R.S.KHURMI, 2005).

12
2.2.2 Chain Drive

Chains are made up of number of rigid links which are hinged together by pin joints in order
to provide the necessary flexibility for wrapping round the driving and driven wheels. These
wheels have projecting teeth of special profile and fit into the corresponding recesses in the
links of the chain. The toothed wheels are known as sprocket wheels or simply sprockets. The
sprockets and the chain are thus constrained to move together without slipping and ensures
perfect velocity ratio.

Figure 2.4 Sprockets and Chain (R.S.KHURMI, 2005)

The chains are mostly used to transmit motion and power from one shaft to another, when the
center distance between their shafts is short such as in bicycles, motor cycles, agricultural
machinery, conveyors, rolling mills, road rollers etc. The chains may also be used for long
center distance of up to 8 meters. The chains are used for velocities up to 25 m / s and for power
up to 110 kW. In some cases, higher power transmission is also possible
The Following are The Advantages of Chain Drive Over Belt or Rope Drive:
1. As no slip takes place during chain drive, hence perfect velocity ratio is obtained.
2. Since the chains are made of metal, therefore they occupy less space in width than a
belt or rope drive.
3. It may be used for both long as well as short distances.
4. It gives a high transmission efficiency (up to 98 percent).
5. It gives less load on the shafts.
6. It has the ability to transmit motion to several shafts by one chain only.
7. It transmits more power than belts.
8. It permits high speed ratio of 8 to 10 in one step.
9. It can be operated under adverse temperature and atmospheric conditions

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2.2.3 Project Gap

In this project, the work of the Maize planting machine, many researchers have talked about
and worked especially on machines that use different energy, therefore making these machines
require more expertise in using and also in modifications and increasing the cost in its
production, they also could not look at the lowest society for example the lowest farmers who
mainly use to plant corn by hand. This machine will be able to be used by a person of low or
medium height because it is easy to operate, it does not require education in using it, it also
uses less power to use it, it also makes the work of planting corn easier.

Unlike other machines, this machine will use power from the user himself and will also be able
to simplify the work of planting corn compared to the method of planting by hand because in
this machine the user will put the seeds in the hopper, the process of digging a hole for the
seeds to plant and cover will be done by the machine In general, this is the difference between
this machine and many others

14
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 Methodology

3.1 Introduction

To fulfil this project these are the methodologies to be followed for the completion of the whole
project.

3.1.0 Literature Review

To meet the needs and reduce the difficulties of maize farming for rural, small, and medium-
sized farmers, a self-propelled maize seeding machine has been produced with locally available
materials

3.1.1 Methods that would be Used for Data Gathering

i. Visitation
This would be done by paying a visit to the place where can data and information’s on beans
could be taken such as visiting a beans farm, ARI Uyole.
ii. Interviews
Interviews would be conducted to different people and professionals to data required from
them. The following could be interviewed farmers, Agriculturist specialist, shopkeepers
(hardware) and mechanical technicians.
iii. Consultation
This would be done to get advice and guidance during the designing of the machine, during
documentation as well as on what data to be collected and where can be obtained, how to
present and also where to pay a visit. In this method, Engineers, Lecturers, Doctors and project
supervisors would be consulted.

3.1.2 Material and Components Selection

The following section discusses the agronomic requirements for crop establishment. The
purpose is not to make an exhaustive study but rather to identify the principal machine-seed/soil
interactions to provide a basis to:
i. Identify the functional/operational requirements of planting machinery;
ii. select machine components concerning cropping system requirements; and
iii. set and manage planting machines.
The materials used for this research work were carefully selected based on three
considerations/requirements

15
 i. Fabrication requirement which refers to the machinability and weldability of the
materials.
ii. Economic requirement which is Paramount in any design has to do with cost and
availability of the materials.
iii. Service requirement of the materials which refers to their properties like strength,
toughness, malleability, ductility, corrosion resistance, maintainability

3.1.3 Summary of The Materials Selected

Table 3.1 Parameters of Single Row Maize Planter

S.No. Names of parameters Symbol Units
1 Holes in seed metering mechanism Holes 4No(s)
2 Ground wheel diameter D 250mm
3 Seed hopper volume SV M3
4 Row to row distance Rd 60cm
5 Plants to plants distance Pd 30cm

Table 3.2 Specification of Manually Operated Maize Planter

Name of the component No. of items Dimension (mm) Material
Frame 1 Length 540 widths300 Mild steel
Handle 1 Length 390 Circular pipe
Seed hopper 1 Height 130 width 210 Mild steel sheet
metal
Seed metering wheel shaft 1 Length180 dia 160 Medium carbon
steel
Seed metering house 1 Dia 250 Wood
Side wheel 2 Dia 300 Steel
Large sprocket 1 No of teeth 16 Medium carbon
steel
Small sprocket 1 No of teeth 15 Medium carbon
steel
Ball bearing 4 Dia 160 Bronze
Seed tube 1 Dia 160 Mild steel sheet
Total weight Approximately 15kg

16
3.1.4 Design Considerations

i. Control Range: The range of control of the machine is 10 meters.

ii. Lateral of Stability: The ease of fabrication of the components

iii. Safety of the operator

iv. Availability of materials

v. Cost of materials

vi. Simplicity.

3.1.5 Assemble and Test Prototype

Fabrication of the maize planting machine is done in parts. The hopper is fabricated from
16guage steel sheets. The machine chassis is fabricated from 25.4mm square pipe. A welding
machine, hack saw, square, vice and angle grinder were used.

3.1.6 Prototype Performance Testing

Preliminary test mainly to ascertain that the main functional parts are working as expected. Ten
rows will be marked out on the land area with inter row spacing. The planter hopper will be
filled with maize seeds and positioned appropriately along the rows and pushed to plant.
Number of seeds dropped per planting point and seeds damaged will be determined by visual
observation. Time of operation will be measured using a stop watch.

17
 CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 Results and Discussion

4.1 Introduction

The best design of the Maize planting machine has been obtained by considering the Seed
delivery mechanism

The Seed Delivery Mechanism is mounted at the outlet of the seed meter, which is used to
guide seeds to furrow smoothly.

The following are the three alternatives which are going to be used
i. Maize planter with round seed tube delivery mechanism
ii. Maize planter with square seed tube delivery mechanism
iii. Maize planter with belt delivery mechanism
4.2 Criteria to be Considered in the Selection of the Best Alternative

1. Manufacturability: This measure of the easiness of the machine to be manufactured.

2. Functionality: This is how a machine does its work as intended to do.

3. Maintainability: This explains the measure of simplicity in maintenance.

4. Safety: This criterion takes into consideration the operator's safety.

5. Cost: this criteria aim to ensure the affordability of purchasing the machine.

6. Ergonomics: This criterion explains the efficient environment around the machine.

7. Durability: The measure of how a machine can perform intended work without failure.

8. Environmental friendly: This is a measure that how a machine can be good to operators and
all the environment around it.

9. Aesthetics: Is a measure of how a machine looks beautiful

18
 4.3 Design Alternative One

Maize Planter With Round Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism

Figure 4.1 Planter with Round Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism(Researcher)

When working, seeds are “shot” through the seed sowing disc because of the force of air flow
and therefore it is insensitive for both slopes and vibrations.

Advantages
i. Low cost
ii. Easy to maintain
Disadvantages
i. Not safe
ii. Low production
iii. Difficult to operate

4.4 Design Alternative Two

Maize Planter With Square Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism

A square seed tube is used for keeping seeds dropped from seed meter along its wall to maintain
uniformity of seed spacing.

19
 Figure 3.2 Planter with Square Seed Tube Delivery Mechanism(Researcher)

The shape of the square seed tube is designed based on the trajectory of seed flow. When the
rotation speed of seed plate is less than 30 r/min, square seed tube performs well and uniform
seed spacing can be kept

4.5 Design Alternative Three

Maize Planter With Belt Delivery Mechanism

Belt delivery system was developed to ensure the uniformity of seed spacing when planters
worked at high speed

20
 Figure 4.3 Planter with Belt Delivery Mechanism(Researcher)

The delivery system can improve working speed of planters to a fastest speed of 10-16 miles
per hour.
Matrix Method
By using the decision matrix method then, the best alternative will be selected among of the
three alternatives
Table 4.1 Score Table
SCALE SCORE

Excellent 5

Very good 4

Good 3

Average 2

Poor 1

Also the table below shows the weight factors that are used to select the best design
alternative of the project.

21
 Table 4.2 Weight Factor Table
S/N CRITERIA POINTS

1 Manufacturability 13
2 Function ability 15
3 Maintainability 20
4 Safety 14
5 Production cost 11
6 Ergonomics 6
7 Durability 9
8 Environmental friendly 7
9 Aesthetics 5
TOTAL 100

Matrix Method Showing the Best Alternative

Table 4.3 Matrix Method Table
ALTERNATIVE(I) ALTERNATIVE(I ALTENATIVE(II
I) I)

S/ CRIITERIA WEGHT SCORE PRODU SCORE PROD SCORE PROD

N CT UCT UCT

1 Manufacturabilit 00.133 4 .30.529 5 .0.6526 4 0.52

y

2 Function ability 00.155 4 0.6 2 0.3 2 0.3

3 Maintainability 0.2. 5 1 3 0.6 1 0.2

4 Safety 00.145 2 0.28 3 0.42 2 0.28

5 Production cost 00.115 2 0.22 2 0.22 1 0.11

6 Ergonomics 00.06 2 0.12 3 0.18 2 0.12

7 Durability 00.09 2 0.18 4 0.36 2 0.18

22
8 Environmental 0.07 1 0.07 1 0.07 2 0.14
friendly

9 Aesthetics 00.05 1 0.05 1 0.1 1 0.05

TOTAL 1 25 3.04 24 2.9 17 1.9

Conclusion
Since the second alternative has a higher score than the first alternative and third alternative,
therefore the First alternative which is Maize planter with round seed tube delivery mechanism
is the best solution.

4.6 Design Calculation

Having selected the optimum alternative (optimum alternative I) it is necessary to perform

design calculation for proper selection of the sizes of the various components of this machine.
The following are the machine component to designed with their parameters

4.6.1 Seed Hopper Design

It stores the seeds to be sown in the soil. The higher the capacity of the hopper, the lesser the
time needed to refill the hopper during planting. The material used for the design was 2mm
thick mild steel sheet metal.
Basics of hopper design
Hopper Capacity
Density = 0.01 grams per cubic millimeter
Mass = 2070.82 grams
Surface area = 137197.27 square millimeters

The Volume Capacity of Hopper

𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 =
𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦

2070.82
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 =
0.01

Volume= 268937.37 cubic millimeters

23
Weight of Hopper Material

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 = 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑥 𝑎𝑐𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑑𝑢𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦

Take g= 9.81N/kg

𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 = 2.07082 𝑥 9.81

Weight of hopper = 20.3147N

4.6.2 Design of Shaft

The materials for the shaft should have the following properties:
i. It should have high strength.
ii. It should have good machinability.
iii. It should have good heat treatment properties.
iv. It should have high wear resistance properties.

For the shafts purchased under definite physical condition specifications, the permissible shear
stress (τmax) may be taken as 30 per cent of the elastic limit in tension (Syt) but not more 18 per
cent of the ultimate tensile strength (Sut). In other words, the permissible shear stress is τmax =
0.3 Syt or 0.18 Sut, whichever is less (S.J.GUPTA, May, 2003) From the selected material: -
Ultimate tensile strength (Sut) = 700N/mm2
Yield strength (Syt) = 390N/mm2
Maximum bending stress (𝜎) = 𝜎𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 84 N/mm2 (R.S.KHURMI, 2005)
So τmax = 0.3 x 390 = 117N/mm2 or τmax = 0.18 x 700 = 126N/mm2
As the less value is to be considered, τmax= 0.75 x 117= 88N/mm2 = Maximum shear strength.
According to A.S.M.E code, the bending and torsion moments are to be multiplied by factors
kb and kt to account for shock and fatigue in operating conditions. Where k m is the combined
shock and fatigue factor applied to bending moment while kt is the combined shock and fatigue
factor applied to torsion moment. Since the load and fatigue will be applied gradually; from
the table km and kt are selected as 1.5 and 1.5 respectively. (R.S.KHURMI, 2005)

24
Let
Τ = allowable shear stress
𝜎 = allowable bending stress.
km= combined shock and fatigue factor for bending
kt= combined shock and fatigue factor for torsion.
Recall that torque transmitted by the driven shaft is given by
60
𝑇 = Power of driving shaft × 𝑁−𝑚
2𝜋𝑁2
Where
T = torque transmitted by the driven shaft
N2 = Speed of the driven shaft
N T
From, N1 = T2
2 1

10 15
=
N2 60
N2 = 40rpm
Loading diagram of the input shaft considered as a simply supported beam subject to transverse
point loadsBy considering the sign conversion The load diagram is shown below

4.6.3 Determination of the Shaft Diameter

Shaft design consists primarily of the determination of the correct shaft diameter to ensure
satisfactory strength and rigidity when the shaft is transmitting power under various operating
and loading conditions. Design of shafts of ductile material based on strength is controlled by
maximum shear theory. The material for the shaft is mild steel rod. For a shaft having little or
no axial loading, the diameter may be obtained using the ASME code equation given as:

25
𝜋𝑑3 𝜏
= √(𝑘𝑚 𝑀)2 + (𝐾𝑡 𝑇)2
16
Assumptions
Power delivered by human range from 350 to 750W
Power delivered(P)= 500W
According to the diameter of the outer wheels, speed of the wheels=50rpm

From,
2𝜋𝑁𝑇
𝑃=
60
Then,
60P
T = 2πN

60 × 500
T=
2π × 50

=95.50Nm
𝜋𝑑3 𝜏
Te= = √(1.5 × 14456.34)2 + (1.5 × 95.50)2
16

Te=21.6849878Nm=21684.9878Nmm
But 𝜏 =allowable shear stress/Factor of safety
Factor of safety= ultimate load or maximum load/Design load
Maximum load= 235.26N
Design load= 117.63N
235.26N
Factor of safety= =2
117.63N

From
𝜋𝑑3 𝜏
Te = 16𝑓𝑠

3 16 × Te × 𝑓𝑠
𝑑=√
𝜋×𝜏

3 21684.9878 × 16 × 2
𝑑=√
𝜋 × 56

26
d=15.80mm say 16mm
Therefore Diameter Of Shaft = 16mm
4.6.4 Bearing Selection

Bearings are selected based on their load carrying capacity, life expectancy and reliability. Ball
bearings are fixed in the bushing provided at the two ends of the frame in other to support the
eccentric shaft on which the wheels are attached. They allow the carrying of an impressive load
without wear and tear and with reduced friction. This device ensures the smooth operation of
the wheels. The material for the bearing is high speed steels
Shaft diameter=16mm
Torque T=95.50Nm
Speed of the metering shaft N =50 RPM

Assumptions
Machine working 6hours per day
Average life of bearing LH is approximately 6000 hours for agricultural machine (khurmi)
Life of bearing in revolution L
Therefore; Take L.h= 25000ℎ𝑟𝑠 to be used in bearing selection.
r=d/2= Radius
W. A= T/r= 95500/15= 6366.67N
W. A=6366.67N
W. R=Reaction force acting on the bearing,
The W. R=96.10N

Dynamic Load Rating for Ball Bearing Under Variable Loads

The approximate rating life(service) of the roller is based on fundamental equation
𝐿 = [𝐶𝑃]𝐾x106 revolutions; but 𝐶 = [𝐿/106]1/𝐾
𝐶 = basic dynamic load rating
𝑃= equivalent dynamic load rating
𝐾 = 3 for ball bearing and 10/3 for roller bearing
𝑃 = 𝑋.𝑉.𝑊𝑅 + 𝑌.𝑊𝐴
Where WR = Radial Load,
WA = Axial or thrust load
X = Radial Load factor,

27
Y = Axial load factor
V = Rotational factor V = 1 If inner race rotating and 1.2 If outer race rotating
Table 4.4 Values of X and Y for Dynamically Loaded Bearings

From the table; the value of Y=1, X=0.56 for deep groove ball bearing and V=1 since inner
race is rotating
P= 0.56 x 1 x96.10 + 6366.67 x 1
P= 6420.49N
The relationship between life in revolution(L) and The life in working hours is given by
L=60×N×LH
L=60×50×25000=75 ×106 revolutions

∴ Life of bearing in revolution L is 75 ×106 rev

For basic dynamic loading
1⁄
𝐿 𝑘
𝐶 = 𝑊 ( 3)
10
But k = 3 for ball bearing

28
 1⁄
75 ×106 3
𝐶 = 6420.49 ( )
103

Therefore, C= 26.07KN
Due to diameter of shaft and dynamic loading bearing number 307 which has basic dynamic
loading of 26.07 kN from table 28.6 Khurmi et al. Hence bearing of 307 designations can be
selected.

4.6.5 Chain Design

The chains are mostly used to transmit motion and power from one shaft to another, when the
centre distance between their shafts is short such as in bicycles, motor cycles, agricultural
machinery, conveyors, rolling mills, road rollers etc. The chains may also be used for long
centre distance of up to 8 meters. The chains are used for velocities up to 25 m / s and for power
up to 110 kW. In some cases, higher power transmission is also possible. (R.S.KHURMI,
2005),

Figure 4.5 Sprockets and Chain (R.S.KHURMI, 2005)

4.6.6 Design Procedures of Chains Drive

The chain drive is designed as discussed below:

1. First of all, determine the velocity ratio of the chain drive.
2. Select the minimum number of teeth on the smaller sprocket or pinion
3. Find the number of teeth on the larger sprocket.
4. Determine the design power by using the service factor, such that Design power = Rated
power × Service factor
5. Choose the type of chain, number of strands for the design power and r.p.m. of the smaller
sprocket

29
6. Note down the parameters of the chain, such as pitch, roller diameter, minimum width of
roller
7. Find pitch circle diameters and pitch line velocity of the smaller sprocket.
8. Determine the load (W) on the chain by using the following relation, i.e. W = Rated power
Pitch line velocity
9. Calculate the factor of safety by dividing the breaking load (WB) to the load on the chain
(W). This value of factor of safety should be greater than the value given in Table 21.2.
10. Fix the center distance between the sprockets.
11. Determine the length of the chain

4.6.6.1 Velocity Ratio of the Chain Drive

We know that the velocity ratio of chain drive,

𝑁1 𝑇2
v. r = =
𝑁2 𝑇1

Where
N1 = Speed of rotation of smaller sprocket in r.p.m.,
N2 = Speed of rotation of larger sprocket in r.p.m.,
T1 = Number of teeth on the smaller sprocket, and
T2 = Number of teeth on the larger sprocket.
Now N1= 200 and N2= 40rpm
Then velocity ratio= 5
we find that for the roller chain, the number of teeth on the smaller sprocket or pinion (T1) for
a velocity ratio of 6 are 15

Table 4.5 Number of Teeth on the Smaller Sprocket

∴ Number of teeth on the larger sprocket 16

We know that
design power = Rated power × Service factor (KS)

30
The service factor (KS) is the product of various factors, such as load factor (K1), lubrication
factor (K2) and rating factor (K3). The values of these factors are taken as follows:
1. Load factor (K1) = 1, for constant load
= 1.25, for variable load with mild shock
= 1.5, for heavy shock loads
2. Lubrication factor (K2) = 0.8, for continuous lubrication
= 1, for drop lubrication
= 1.5, for periodic lubrication
3. Rating factor (K3) = 1, for 8 hours per day
= 1.25, for 16 hours per day
= 1.5, for continuous service
Table 4.6 Characteristics of Roller Chains According To IS: 2403 — 1991

From Table, we find that corresponding to a pinion speed of 1000 r.p.m. the power transmitted
for chain No. 08B. Therefore, a chain No. 08B with single strands can be used to transmit the
required power. From Table, we find that Pitch, p = 12.7 mm

31
 Figure 4.6 Length of Chain. (R.S.KHURMI, 2005)

Average Velocity of the Chain

It’s given by the formula below
𝑇𝑃𝑁
𝑉=
60

D = Pitch circle diameter of the sprocket in meters, and

P = Pitch of the chain in meters.

50 × 12.7 × 15
𝑉= = 0.15875𝑚/𝑠
60 × 1000
The average velocity of the chain = 0.159m/s

The Length of the Chain

The length of the chain (L) must be equal to the product of the number of chain links (K) and
the pitch of the chain (p).
L = K. p

T1= Number of teeth on the driver sprocket, = 15 Teeth

T2 = Number of teeth on the driven sprocket, = 16 Teeth
p = Pitch of the chain, = 12.7mm
x = Centre distance = 800mm
The number of chain links may be obtained from the following expression, i.e.

T1 +T2 2x T2 -T1 p
K= + +[ ]x
2 p 2π

Where:
T1 is the Number of teeth on the smaller sprocket =15Teeth
T2 is the Number of teeth on the larger sprocket = 16 Teeth
p is the Pitch of the chain = 12.7 mm
x is the Centre distance = 800 mm
K is the number of chain links
32
The value of K as obtained from the above expression must be approximated to the nearest
even number.

15+16 2x800 16-15 2 12.7

K= + +[ ]
2 12.7 2π 800
K = 142
L = Kp = 142 x 12.7
The length of chain from Pedal shaft to driven shaft is 1803.4mm

Power Transmitted by Chain

The power transmitted by the chain on the basis of breaking load is given by
𝑊𝐵 × 𝑉
𝑃=
𝑛 × 𝐾𝑆

Where
WB = Breaking load in newton’s,
v = Velocity of chain in m/s
n = Factor of safety, and
KS = Service factor = K1.K2.K3
The service factor (KS) is the product of various factors, such as load factor (K1), lubrication
factor (K2) and rating factor (K3). The values of these factors are taken as follows (Gupta and
Khurmi,2005):
i. Load factor (K1) = 1, for constant load
= 1.25 for variable with mild shock
= 1.5 for heavy shock load

ii. Lubrication factor (K2) = 0.8 for continue lubrication

= 1, for drop lubrication
= 1.5 for periodic lubrication

iii. Rating factor (K3) = 1, for 8 hours per day

= 1.25 for 16 hours per day
= 1.5 for continuous services.

33
Ks = 1.25 x 1.5 x 1 = 1.875
The breaking strength of the chain may be obtained by the following empirical relations, i.e.
WB = 106p2 (in newton’s) for roller chains = 106p (in newton’s) per mm width of chain for
silent chains Where p is the pitch in mm.
WB= 106p2
WB =106 x 12.72 =17096.74N
n = 12.12 from the table of chain type(APPENDIX D)
17096.74 × 1.2
𝑃= = 902.798W
12.12 × 1.875
The power transmitted by the chain on the basis of breaking load is 902.798Watt
The Tension on the Chain
The total load (or total tension) on the driving side of the chain is the sum of the tangential
driving force (FT), centrifugal tension in the chain (FC) and the tension in the chain due to
sagging (FS).
We know that the tangential driving force acting on the chain,

power transmitted (in watts)

𝐹𝑇 =
speed of the chain (in m ⁄ s)

Centrifugal tension in the chain,

FC = m.v2 (in newton’s) and
Tension in the chain due to sagging,
FS = k.mg.x (in Newton’s)
Where
m = Mass of the chain in kg per meter length,
x = Centre distance in meters, and
k = Constant which takes into account the arrangement of chain drive = 2 to 6, when the center
line of the chain is inclined to the horizontal at an angle less than 40º
k= 1 to 1.5, when the center line of the chain is inclined to the horizontal at an angle greater
than 40º.
From,
𝑇𝑃𝑁 48 × 12.7 × 150
𝑉= = = 1.524m/s
60 60 × 1000

Then,

34
 902.798W
𝐹𝑇 = = 592.39N
1.524m/s
FC = m.v2
But velocity (v) is taken as greater or equal to 5m/s
FC = m.v2 = 0.7 x (5)2 = 17.5N
FS = k.mg.x = 1.5 x 0.7 x 9.81 x 0.650 = 6.6953N
The total load (or total tension) = FT + FC + FS
= 592.39N+ 17.5N + 6.6953N = 616.59N
The total load (or total tension) on the driving side of the chain =616.59N.

4.6.7 Drive Wheel

Wheels of larger diameters are to reduce rolling resistance especially in the case of traction
wheels. In this project, the front wheel is designed to be a traction wheel to enhance movement
on loose soils. It is made of a 6mm thick mild steel plate cut out into 80mm width and folded
into a circle of 300mm diameter. The wheel has 3mm thick and 20mm wide flat bars as spokes
which are welded to a hub containing a bearing. The front wheel provides drive for the metering
mechanism through a chain and sprocket system.
Normally, we know that according to agriculture the distance between the two holes of maize
is 30cm (this is standard)
Let the distance covered be 90cm meaning we will have three holes
The 90cm length will be used to design the outside diameter of the wheel.From 𝑙 = 𝜋D
Where 𝑙 = length
𝜋𝐷 = circumference of the wheel
90𝑐𝑚 = 𝜋𝐷
90𝑐𝑚
D= = 28.65𝑐𝑚 ≈ 30 𝑐𝑚
𝜋

The diameter of the wheel = 30cm

4.6.8 Metering Device

Metering mechanism is the heart of sowing machine and its function is to distribute seeds at
the desired application rates. In planters it also controls seed spacing in a row. A seed planter
may be required to drop the seeds at rates varying across wide range. Proper design of the
metering device is an essential element for satisfactory performance of the planting machine.
The seed metering device used for this work is the wooden roller type with cells on its
periphery. The size and number of cells on the roller depends on the size of seed and desired

35
seed rate. In this design, the wooden roller lifts the seeds in the cells and drops these into the
seed funnel which is conveyed to the open furrow through the seed tube.
As we have said that, the standard distance between the holes is 30cm.
Let us use this 30cm to get the diameter of the Metering device
From 𝑙 = 𝜋d
30 = 𝜋d
30𝑐𝑚
= 𝑑 = 9.55𝑐𝑚 ≈ 10𝑐𝑚
𝜋
The diameter of metering device = 10cm
To calculate the hole into which the seed will be carried away, the circumference of the
metering device is used,
From 𝑙 = 𝜋d=30cm
Let (n) be the number of holes, from the outside wheel 𝑛 = 3
30cm
= 10𝑐𝑚 = 𝑎𝑟𝑐 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐e
𝑛

∴ The distance between hole = 10cm

4.6.9 Manufacturing Process

The table below show sequence of operation and tools used for each operation during
manufacturing of precision planting machine.
Table 4.7 Operation Sequence and Material Used
NO NAME MATERIAL MACHINE USED OPERATION
01 Shaft Mild steel Lathe machine Facing
Drill machine Turning
Threding
02 Drive wheel Stainless steel Rolling machine Rolling

03 Frame Rectangular pipes Power saw Cutting

Mild steel Welding machine Welding
04 Handle Mild steel Lathe machine Turning
Facing
05 Metal sheet Stainless steel Hand grinder Cutting and grinding
06 Hole Center punch Hole making
07 Bolt and nuts Mild steel Spinner Tighten nut and bolt

36
08 Weld device Electric welding Welding

09 Vernier Vernier calipers Measurement of outer

and inner diameter

37
 CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation

5.1 Conclusion

The machine designed for planting Maize it makes a slot, put Maize seed, then put back the
soil to cover the seed when one person pushes the machine forward. This machine helped the
former to use less labour because it takes 8 hours for one operator to plant one hectare. This
machine is manual operated precision planter so it does not need any source of power and also
it is ergonomically designed to prevent back-pain to the operator. to sum up, this project helps
me to use mechanical skill that I learn in this University to solve the challenge that face the
small Maize farmer in our country in planting Maize at the required spacing at sort time and
by less manpower.

5.2 Recommendation

On behalf of this project the following are recommendations:

i. Multiple row Maize planter should be developed
ii. Machine for adding value to the Maize should be developed such as destoner, grading
as well as packaging.
iii. Research on proper Maize planting spacing to be used should be conducted
iv. The University should fabricate many machine of planting Maize that could provide
service to the Maize farmer around our campus.

38
 REFERENCES

Ademiluyi, A. O, and Oladejo, J. O. (2018). Development of a Hand-Operated Maize Planter

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 APPENDICES

APPENDIX I
Cost Estimation For The Project
The types of costs that have been considered are;
a) Material cost
b) Labour cost
c) machining cost
d) overhead cost
e) Material cost
Project cost estimation sheet
SN Description Quantity Price Subtotal
01 Rectangular pipe 60mm x 3ft @4000/= 12000/=
40mm x 3.2mm
02 Square pipe 20mm x 20mm 1ft @12000/= 12000/=
x 2.5mm
03 Sprockets 2 @8000/= 16000/=
04 Seed tube 1 @10000/= 10000/=
05 Seed hopper 1 @10000/= 10000/=
06 Seed metering wheel 1 @15000/= 15000/=
07 Bolts and nuts 4 @5000/= 20000/=
08 Bearing 4 @20000/= 80000/=
09 Steel bar 1 @10000/= 10000/=
10 Shaft 2 @10000/= 20000/=

1. The labour cost This is the cost charged to compensate the energy and time consumed
to manufacture this machine.
2. The labour cost charged is 50% of the total material cost. Therefore, Labour cost =
50/100𝑥200,000 = 100,000 Therefore, labour cost = T.sh 100,000/=.

3. Machining cost Machining costs are the costs paid to the machinist for machining
some parts of the machine.
4. The machining cost as charged by the machinist is 25% of the material cost. Thus,
Machining cost= 25/100 𝑥200,000 =50,000 Therefore, Material cost is 50,000/=.

5. The overhead cost The overhead cost is taken as 40% of the summation of labour cost,
machining cost.

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 6. Thus, Overhead = 40/100 𝑥 (100,000 + 50,000) = 60,000/=
7. TOTAL COST The total cost of planting machine is taken as the summation of
material cost, labour cost, fabrication and machining cost.
8. Total cost=material cost+labour cost machining cost overhead cost = Therefore the
total cost is T.sh 410,000/=.

APPENDIX II
. Power rating (in kW) of simple roller chain

APPENDIX III
Number of teeth on the smaller sprocket

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APPENDIX IV
Characteristics of roller chains according to IS: 2403 — 1991.

APPENDIX V
Values of X and Y for dynamically loaded bearings;

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APPENDIX VI
Values of service factor (KS)

APPENDIX VII
Simulation Analysis

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45