Desarrollo de una máquina semiautomática para la colocación de semillas de 5 mm hasta 10 mm en almácigos de 28x28 cm.

Abstract

The objective of the present titling work is to implement a semi-automatic seed drill to place seeds from 5 to 10 mm in 28x28 cm seedlings; it is an easy machine to operate and low cost compared to those offered in the national and international markets with similar characteristics. The complete process comprises three main systems: the mechanical system, the sowing mechanism and the vacuum generation system working in a coordinated manner, so that the process is carried out successfully from the placement of the substrate loaded soil, going through the sowing and finally returning to the initial point to be removed, place a new tray and repeat the process as many times as required; everything is possible through the use of PLC (LOGO), main element that receives and processes the signals sent from the different types of sensors. The sensor type laser gives the position of the tray at the moment of machine starting; the vacuum sensor allows knowing if the seeds of the container have been taken for later transfer to the discharge holes and those finals of running strategically located permit the actuators stop at a certain point in order not to cause function problems. The tests carried out on the planter were with a sample of 5 trays equivalent to 500 seedlings; in which it was found that an efficiency of 85% of cavities planted correctly can be obtained, and with the remaining 15% empty cavities or with more than one seed were obtained using a maximum pressure of 0.6 MPa. In conclusion, it is feasible to execution to minimize the time required for planting seeds and increase the production of seedlings considering its price and the benefits obtained, so it is recommended to implement the machine to increase the seed production.