Kinematic Analysis of Transplanting Mechanism for Root Washed Paddy Seedlings Using SolidWorks

Abstract

The kinematic analysis of a planting mechanism is essential for understanding its operational behavior, as it enables the prediction of the mechanism’s motion at any point in its cycle and provides a basis for further design improvements. By using computer-assisted analytical methods, a complete rotation analysis can be performed quickly and accurately, avoiding the time-consuming steps required in traditional graphical approaches. SolidWorks motion analysis was used to simulate the mechanism’s full operating cycle, providing results comparable to theoretical predictions. The displacement trends of the crank–rocker mechanism closely matched analytical results, validating the accuracy of the model. However, the theoretical angular velocity and acceleration were higher due to idealized assumptions such as negligible link mass and friction, whereas SolidWorks considered the actual mass and inertial effects of the components, resulting in more realistic values. At 90 rpm, one complete crank revolution occurred in 0.68 s, with 0–0.32 s as the forward stroke and 0.32–0.68 s as the return stroke. The fingertip achieved the optimal pickup position at X = 320 mm and Y = 182 mm, with a maximum lift of 335 mm and a planting depth of 49.5 mm. The follower’s angular velocity ranged from 58.9 to 443 deg/s, indicating non-uniform motion due to changing mechanical advantage. The validated model confirmed that the mechanism provided smooth and synchronized motion suitable for simultaneous seedling pickup and planting, and the consistent fingertip trajectory supports integration with sensor-based conveying systems for precise, automated operation.