Sensor-Integrated Design and Field Validation of an Automated Corn Plot Seeder with Dynamic Parameter Optimization

To improve planting efficiency in corn plot seeders, a high-capacity automated planting system was designed. The planting system's mechanical dynamics (including seed movement trajectories and force interactions) were systematically analyzed during seeding processes. To optimize the seed cartridge, key influencing factors such as the tip angle (blade geometry of the opener) and the tilt angle (installation orientation of the opener), the operating speed of the pushrod, and the opening position were considered. Using Design-Expert 8.0 for multifactorial response surface optimization, the seed cartridge yielded optimal performance with a tip angle of 30°, tilt angle of 49°, pushrod speed of 90 mm/s, and opening position at -9 mm, resulting in 99.33% seeding qualification rate. To address planting accuracy challenges for corn seeders, three-stage sensor modules (QR code recognition, cartridge positioning, and seed drop detection) effectively resolved seed-plot mapping mismatches between seeds and assigned plots. Field validation using the 2BQX-2 pull-type plot seeder reduced manual intervention by 76% while maintaining 0.1% error tolerance in plot-specific seeding. These advancements provide a modular, sensor-driven framework for retrofitting existing agricultural equipment, with particular significance for large-scale crop breeding operations.