CAD-Based Design and Fabrication of a Power-operated Seed Drill for Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Sowing

Abstract

Agricultural mechanisation plays an important role in improving the timeliness and consistency of crop establishment while reducing dependence on manual labour. Small and marginal farmers require compact and affordable sowing equipment that can be fabricated and maintained using locally available resources. The present study focused on the CAD-based design and fabrication of a power-operated seed drill intended for wheat sowing. A complete three-dimensional Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model was developed using NX-10 software to establish the dimensions, arrangement, and assembly relationships of the main frame, seed hopper, seed metering mechanism, furrow opener, ground wheels, battery-operated drive unit, and chain-and-sprocket transmission system. Materials were selected by considering mechanical strength, machinability, weldability, corrosion resistance, availability, and fabrication requirements. The machine was fabricated using conventional workshop operations including measurement and marking, cutting, turning, drilling, grinding, electric-arc welding, thread cutting, surface finishing, and mechanical assembly. A 24 V, 250 W DC geared motor with a 24 V lithium-ion battery was incorporated as the power unit. The completed prototype was inspected for component fitment, alignment, structural integrity, and smooth movement of rotating components. The CAD-assisted approach facilitated systematic component development and assembly while providing engineering drawings for fabrication. The present paper is limited to the design, fabrication, and preliminary inspection of the prototype; laboratory calibration and field performance evaluation are reserved for a subsequent study.