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Design and Experimental Study of Banana Bunch Transportation Device with Lifting Mechanism and Automatic Bottom-Fixing Fruit Shaft

Authors :
Weiqin Li
Zhou Yang
Xing Xu
Weixi Li
Xingkang Mo
Jiaxiang Yu
Jieli Duan
Source :
Agriculture, Vol 14, Iss 7, p 1161 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

In addressing the challenges of high labor intensity, cost, and potential mechanical damage to banana fruit in orchards, this study presents the design of a banana bunch transport device featuring a lifting mechanism and an automatic fruit shaft bottom-fixing system. The device is tailored to the planting and morphological characteristics of banana bunches, aiming for efficient, low-loss, and labor-saving mechanized transport. Key design considerations included the anti-overturning mechanism and the lifting system based on transportation conditions and the physical dimensions of banana bunches. A dynamic simulation was conducted to analyze the angular velocity and acceleration during the initial conveying stages, forming the basis for the fruit shaft bottom-fixation mechanism. A novel horizontal multi-point scanning method was developed to accurately identify and secure the fruit shaft bottom, complemented by an automated control system. Experimental results showed a 95.83% success rate in identification and fixation, validated by field trials that confirmed the necessity and stability of the fixation mechanism. To enhance the durability of the fruit shaft bottom-fixation mechanism, a multi-factor test was conducted, optimizing the device’s maximum travel speed and minimizing the banana bunch’s oscillation angle. Field tests showed an oscillation angle of 8.961°, closely matching the simulated result of 9.526°, demonstrating the reliability of the response surface analysis model. This study offers a practical and efficient solution for banana bunch transport in orchards, showcasing significant practical value and potential for wider adoption.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20770472
Volume :
14
Issue :
7
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Agriculture
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.9ff2e9b1cd9c435183c0e180b80f2d46
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071161