Advancements in pneumatic seed-metering devices: A review of numerical and experimental approaches
Antonio Bustos-Gaytán, Noé Saldaña-Robles, Diego R. Joya-Cárdenas, César Gutiérrez‐Vaca, J. Arturo Alfaro-Ayala, J. Barco-Burgos, Alberto Saldaña-Robles
Abstract
• This paper reports advances in the design of pneumatic seed-metering devices. • The review paper compiles and discusses novel numerical and experimental research. • This paper shows optimal operating conditions of seed-metering for different crops. • The key components of the pneumatic seed-metering devices are analyzed. The pneumatic seed-metering device is the key component of precision seeders, comprising the air chamber, seed plate, and seed-cleaning device as its main elements. Advancements in its design and optimization of operational parameters significantly improve seed distribution, thereby increasing crop yields. This work presents a critical review of experimental and numerical simulation research aimed at improving pneumatic seed-metering devices. It summarizes research on key findings and optimal operating conditions identified for various crops related to these devices, including geometric features optimizing air-chamber functionality; hole shapes in the seed plate that increase suction and improve seed retention; types of seed-cleaning devices designed to minimize multiple seeds; analytical models for estimating required seed retention pressure; the application of simulation tools to improve key components; types of seed-mixing devices promoting effective seed capture; and innovations in the development of novel components for optimized seed distribution. This review indicates that 86 % of studies examined focus on air-vacuum systems, while 14 % address air-blowing systems. The predominance of air-vacuum systems arises from their advantages, including high seeding precision, robust seed adaptability, and high-speed operation. However, fewer studies focus on seed-cleaning and anti-blocking devices. Numerical tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Discrete Element Method (DEM), and their coupling (CFD-DEM) are crucial for optimizing pneumatic seed-metering devices through the analysis of airflow, seed behavior, and their interaction. Further research is needed in this field, and this review serves as a reference for future investigations aimed at the development of new devices that can enhance seed uniformity during seeding.