**1. Introduction**

*Brassica chinensis* (BC) is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a high plant cellulose content. It is widely cultivated in China because its vegetable is favored by people in the North and South [1]. The planting mode of BC is mainly individual planting in China, and artificial seeding is also the main method for the plantation process. Because this kind of seeding method is relatively inefficient, the implementation of mechanized precision seeding technology is a primary requirement for BC cultivation.

The term "small seeds" usually refer to seeds with an average diameter of less than 3 mm, and includes most of the seeds of vegetables and flowers [2]. BC seeds are small in size, but their regular shape and high average sphericity index are suitable for highspeed precision seeding. Precision seeding is defined as the process of using a precision seeder to make a single seed fall accurately into a reserved position in the soil according to certain agronomic requirements [3]. The seed metering device is a core component for the realization of high-speed precision seeding, and its performance is one of the most important factors that affect the quality of the seeding [4]. A pneumatic metering device has the advantages of having a low seed size requirement, does not damage the seed, is

**Citation:** Li, B.; Ahmad, R.; Qi, X.; Li, H.; Nyambura, S.M.; Wang, J.; Chen, X.; Li, S. Design Evaluation and Performance Analysis of a Double-Row Pneumatic Precision Metering Device for *Brassica chinensis*. *Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, 1374. https:// doi.org/10.3390/su13031374

Academic Editor: Muhammad Sultan Received: 10 December 2020 Accepted: 12 January 2021 Published: 28 January 2021

**Publisher's Note:** MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

**Copyright:** © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ 4.0/).

suitable for single-grain precision seeding, and is suitable for high-speed seeding [5]. In order to meet the agronomic requirements of narrow-row dense planting of small sized seeds, and to achieve the goal of high-speed precision seeding, it is necessary to design a double-row precision metering device with a simple structure, strong adaptability, and good seeding performance [6].

At present, many experts and scholars have carried out research on pneumatic seed metering devices, but research on multi-row precision metering devices is not extensive. Research carried out has included an air-suction potato seed metering device that improved the seeding performance of large-size seed crops [7]. After theoretical analysis, the main structure and operating parameters of the device were determined. Two orthogonal tests (conventional tuber test and mini-tuber test) were then carried out to analyze the influence of the operating parameters on the seeding quality, which were then evaluated with corresponding indicators (multiple-seeding index (MTI), missing-seeding index (MI), and qualified index (QI)). The results of the conventional tuber test (mini-tuber test) indicated that the MTI was 1.1% (0.5%), MI was 0.8% (0.6%), and QI was 98.1% (98.9%) under the conditions of a 30 (35) r/min rotating speed, 25 (17) cm seed height, and 10 (3.5) kPa pickup vacuum pressure. A novel combination vacuum and spoon belt metering device to improve the efficiency and precise seeding of potatoes was designed by [8]. The structure and dimensions of the seed metering device are key components that have to be included in the experimental design to verify the seeding performance of the seed metering device. The experiment results found that, when the seeding belt speed was 0.43 m·s −1 , the spoon aperture was 15.72 mm, and the cleaning air pressure was 2.94 kPa, the seeding effect of the metering device was high (the missing seed index was 3.97%, the multiple seed index was 4.65%, and the qualified seed index was 91.38%). A six-row air-blowing centralized precision seed-metering device for the realization of precision seeding of *Panax notoginseng* was designed by [9]. A mechanical model of the movement process for the seed metering device was constructed based on a method combining theoretical calculations and simulation analysis. The outlet pressure of the air nozzle and the forward velocity and cone angle of the hole were selected as the test factors for carrying out the quadratic rotation orthogonal combination test. After parameter optimization, it was found that when the cone angle of the hole was 50◦ , the forward velocity was less than 0.73 m/s, and the outlet pressure of the air nozzle was 0.32–0.52 kPa, the qualified index of grain spacing was higher than 94%, the miss index was less than 3%, the multiple index was less than 5%, and the coefficient of variation of the row displacement consistency was less than 5%.

A pneumatic disk with four rows for planting rapeseed was designed by Elebaid et al. [10], and its performance under several rotating speeds and vacuum pressure values was investigated. Subsequently, the seed mass of the four-row design was measured and analyzed under the influence of rotational speed and negative pressure. It was found that the seed mass of row 1 and the seed mass of row 4 were significantly different under high-speed conditions (25 and 30 r/min). Taghinezhad et al. [11] designed and modeled a new mechanism for a sugarcane metering device with Catia software. The effect of metering device tooth length and the speed of the sugarcane billet metering device were studied in order to find the best combination for improving the distance uniformity and filling performance of the metering device cells. The analytical hierarchy process was used to select the best combination, and it was found that a 2 cm tooth length and a 0.75 m/s forward speed was the best-suited combination for the metering device, and the consistency ratio was computed as being lower than 0.1. Mandal et al. [12] designed a pneumatic seed metering mechanism for a power tiller-operated three-row precision planter. The optimum design and operating parameters of the modular seed metering device were determined by conducting experiments on the sticky belt test stand, with various performance indexes being considered. The optimum design and operation parameters were determined as follows: the number of holes for the seed metering disc was eight, the diameter of the hole was 3.5 mm, the pitch circle diameter of the disc was 116 mm, operational speed was 0.11 m·s −1 , and negative pressure was 6 kPa.

The objectives of this study are to design, fabricate, and evaluate a new doublerow pneumatic precision metering device for BC. Additionally, the effects of the cone angle (CA) of the suction hole, the angular velocity (AV) of the metering plate, and the negative pressure (NP) on the seeding performance of the metering device are investigated. Additionally, the range of optimal working parameters is determined and verified. pneumatic precision metering device for BC. Additionally, the effects of the cone angle (CA) of the suction hole, the angular velocity (AV) of the metering plate, and the negative pressure (NP) on the seeding performance of the metering device are investigated. Additionally, the range of optimal working parameters is determined and verified. **2. Materials and Methods** 

The objectives of this study are to design, fabricate, and evaluate a new double-row

being considered. The optimum design and operation parameters were determined as follows: the number of holes for the seed metering disc was eight, the diameter of the hole was 3.5 mm, the pitch circle diameter of the disc was 116 mm, operational speed was 0.11

### **2. Materials and Methods** *2.1. Structure and Working Principle of Seed Metering Device*

m·s−1, and negative pressure was 6 kPa.

### *2.1. Structure and Working Principle of Seed Metering Device* A new double-row pneumatic precision metering device for BC was designed. The

*Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 20

A new double-row pneumatic precision metering device for BC was designed. The power input mechanism of the seed metering device consisted of a sprocket which transferred power to the shaft for the rotation of the metering plate. The overall structure of the seed metering device is shown in Figure 1. The seeds in the seed box become adsorbed in the suction hole of the metering plate under the effect of NP. The stirring wheel located in the seed-filling zone rotates with the metering plate under the periodic collision by the striking column. As a result, the seeds which were originally accumulated in the seed-filling zone achieved a flowing state. The seeds adsorbed by the suction hole in the seed-filling zone are transferred using the metering plate to the seed-cleaning zone. The seed cleaning devices of the inner and outer circles scrape off the multiple seeds absorbed by one hole to ensure that one seed is absorbed by one hole. The seed rotates with the metering plate to the seed-throwing zone, and due to the cut-off of the negative pressure airway, the seed breaks away from the adsorption force of NP and falls under the action of gravity and centrifugal force. The diversion channel separates the seeds from the inner and outer circles; after that, the seeds enter the diversion tube to form a double-row seed flow. power input mechanism of the seed metering device consisted of a sprocket which transferred power to the shaft for the rotation of the metering plate. The overall structure of the seed metering device is shown in Figure 1. The seeds in the seed box become adsorbed in the suction hole of the metering plate under the effect of NP. The stirring wheel located in the seed-filling zone rotates with the metering plate under the periodic collision by the striking column. As a result, the seeds which were originally accumulated in the seedfilling zone achieved a flowing state. The seeds adsorbed by the suction hole in the seedfilling zone are transferred using the metering plate to the seed-cleaning zone. The seed cleaning devices of the inner and outer circles scrape off the multiple seeds absorbed by one hole to ensure that one seed is absorbed by one hole. The seed rotates with the metering plate to the seed-throwing zone, and due to the cut-off of the negative pressure airway, the seed breaks away from the adsorption force of NP and falls under the action of gravity and centrifugal force. The diversion channel separates the seeds from the inner and outer circles; after that, the seeds enter the diversion tube to form a double-row seed flow.

**Figure 1.** Integral structure of seed metering device: (**a**) Front view; (**b**) Side view. **Figure 1.** Integral structure of seed metering device: (**a**) Front view; (**b**) Side view.

### *2.2. Physical Properties of Brassica Chinensis*

calculated.

*2.2. Physical Properties of Brassica Chinensis*  "*Shanghai Ai Ji*" is a common variety of BC in China, and the seeds of this variety were used for the experiment. The physical properties of BC are shown in Table 1. Fifty samples were randomly selected, and the triaxial dimensions were measured using a digital vernier caliper with an accuracy of 0.01 mm. One thousand samples were weighed "*Shanghai Ai Ji*" is a common variety of BC in China, and the seeds of this variety were used for the experiment. The physical properties of BC are shown in Table 1. Fifty samples were randomly selected, and the triaxial dimensions were measured using a digital vernier caliper with an accuracy of 0.01 mm. One thousand samples were weighed five times using an electronic balance with an accuracy of 0.001 g, and the mean was then calculated.

five times using an electronic balance with an accuracy of 0.001 g, and the mean was then


**Table 1.** Physical properties of *Brassica chinensis*.

According to the results of the triaxial dimensions of seeds in Table 1, the average equivalent diameter (*De*) and the average spherical rate (*Sp*) of the seeds can be calculated by the following formulas:

$$
\overline{De} = \sqrt[3]{\overline{l} \cdot \overline{w} \cdot \overline{h}} \tag{1}
$$

$$\overline{Sp} = \frac{\sqrt[3]{\overline{l} \cdot \overline{w} \cdot \overline{h}}}{\overline{l}} \times 100\% \tag{2}$$

where *l* is the average length of the seeds, in mm; *w* is the average width of the seeds, in mm; *h* is the average thickness of the seeds, in mm; *De* is the average equivalent diameter of the seeds, in mm; and *Sp* is the average spherical rate of the seeds, in %.

According to the above equations, the average equivalent diameter of seeds (*De*) was 1.67 mm, and the average spherical ratio (*Sp*) was 96%.

### *2.3. Structural Design and Theoretical Analysis of the Metering Plate*

### 2.3.1. Determination of Key Parameters for the Metering Plate

As key parts of the seed metering device, the structure parameters of the metering plate have a significant effect on seed filling performance [13,14]. The integral structure and key dimensions of the metering plate are shown in Figure 2. The position of the outer circle hole is low at the seed-filling zone, and the pressure exerted by the upper seeds on the lower seeds is large, resulting in an increase in the seed-filling resistance of the lower seeds. Moreover, the linear velocity at the center of the outer circle hole is larger than that at the inner circle hole. The seed-filling time is relatively shorter, so the outer circle hole is more difficult to fill under the same conditions. The diameter of the outer circle hole is determined according to the size of the seeds using Equation (3):

$$d\_2 = (0.64 \sim 0.66)\overline{De} \tag{3}$$

where *d*<sup>2</sup> is the diameter of the outer circle hole, in mm.

From Equation (1), the average equivalent diameter (*De*) of seeds was 1.67 mm. The range of the diameter of the outer circle hole can be obtained by substituting *De* = 1.67 mm into Equation (3): *d*<sup>2</sup> = (1.07~1.10 mm). For this design, the diameter (*d*2) of the outer circle hole was selected to be 1.1 mm. It is more difficult to fill the outer circle hole than the inner circle, so the diameter (*d*2) of the outer circle hole was larger than the diameter (*d*1) of the inner circle hole (1.0 mm).

The number of holes on the inner and outer circles determines the size of the doublerow metering plate. With the increase in the number of holes of the inner and outer circles, the diameter of the metering plate increased accordingly. Similarly, the linear velocity at the center of the suction hole of the metering plate decreased. As a result, the seed-filling performance of the hole increased with the increase in the seed-filling time [15]. The number of holes was inversely proportional to the product of the rotation speed of the double-row metering plate (r/min) and the planting space of the seeds (mm), and directly proportional to the forward speed of the planter (m/s). The equation for calculating the number of holes is as follows:

$$N = \frac{60v\_d}{nl} \tag{4}$$

where *N* is the number of holes; *v<sup>d</sup>* is the forward speed of the planter, in m/s; *n* is the rotation speed of the double-row metering plate, in r/min; *l* is the planting space of the seeds, in mm. *Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 20

**Notes:** Ⅰ**.** The side in contact with the seed; Ⅱ. The side in contact with the NP; O. The center of metering plate; E. The center of outer circle hole; F. The center of outer circle adjacent hole.

*θ* is the cone angle of the suction hole, °; *θ*<sup>1</sup> is the angle between two adjacent holes in the inner circle, °; *θ*2 is the angle between two adjacent holes in the outer circle, °; *D* is the diameter of the metering plate, mm; *L* is the distance between point E and point F, mm; *R*2 is the radius of the center of outer circle hole, mm.

**Figure 2.** Integral structure and key dimensions of metering plate of the seed metering device in **Figure 2.** Integral structure and key dimensions of metering plate of the seed metering device in front view and side view planes.

front view and side view planes.

seeds, in mm.

mined as *N*1 = *N*2 = 60.

The number of holes on the inner and outer circles determines the size of the doublerow metering plate. With the increase in the number of holes of the inner and outer circles, the diameter of the metering plate increased accordingly. Similarly, the linear velocity at the center of the suction hole of the metering plate decreased. As a result, the seed-filling performance of the hole increased with the increase in the seed-filling time [15]. The number of holes was inversely proportional to the product of the rotation speed of the doublerow metering plate (r/min) and the planting space of the seeds (mm), and directly proportional to the forward speed of the planter (m/s). The equation for calculating the number of holes is as follows: According to the agronomic requirements, the dense planting spacing of BC is 4~5 cm with a row spacing of 10~11 cm. As such, the planting space for the seeds was *l* ≤ 5 cm = 0.05 m. According to the *Design Manual for Agricultural Machinery* [16], the linear velocity at the center of holes of the metering plate was *v* ≤ 0.35 m/s. Considering the actual installation size of the seed metering device, the radius of the metering plate with double-row holes was determined to be *R* ≥ 100 mm. According to the equation of rotation speed (*n = v/*2π*R*), it can be calculated that the rotation speed of the metering plate was *n* ≤ 0.557 r/s = 33.42 r/min. At present, the pneumatic precision metering device can generally adapt to high-speed seeding (*v<sup>d</sup>* ≥ 6 km/h = 1.67 m/s). Therefore, it can be calculated from Equation (4) that *N* ≥ 60, and the number of holes of the inner and outer circles was finally determined as *N*<sup>1</sup> = *N*<sup>2</sup> = 60.

60*vd N nl* (4) where *N* is the number of holes; *vd* is the forward speed of the planter, in m/s; *n* is the rotation speed of the double-row metering plate, in r/min; *l* is the planting space of the Since the number of holes (*N*1, *N*2) in the inner and outer circles was 60, the angle between the two adjacent holes in the inner and outer circles is as follows: *θ*<sup>1</sup> = *θ*<sup>2</sup> = 360◦/60 = 6◦ . As shown in Figure 2, three points (OEF) constitute an isosceles triangle. The distance *L* satisfies the following: *L* > *d*<sup>2</sup> + 2*l*max = 1.1 mm + 2 × 2.04 mm = 5.18 mm, where *l*max is the maximum length of seeds, mm. From the cosine theorem of isosceles triangle OEF, the equation for calculating *R*<sup>2</sup> is as follows:

$$\mathbf{R}\_2 = \sqrt{\frac{L^2}{2(1-\cos(\theta\_2))}}\tag{5}$$

at the center of holes of the metering plate was *v* ≤ 0.35 m/s. Considering the actual installation size of the seed metering device, the radius of the metering plate with double-row holes was determined to be *R* ≥ 100 mm. According to the equation of rotation speed (*n = v/*2*R*), it can be calculated that the rotation speed of the metering plate was *n* ≤ 0.557 r/s = 33.42 r/min. At present, the pneumatic precision metering device can generally adapt to high-speed seeding (*vd* ≥ 6 km/h = 1.67 m/s). Therefore, it can be calculated from Equation (4) that *N* ≥ 60, and the number of holes of the inner and outer circles was finally deter-It can be calculated from the above equation that *R*<sup>2</sup> > 49.39 mm. Considering that sufficient space was reserved for the inner circle hole of the metering plate and the space of the metering plate was fully utilized, the radius of the center of the outer circle hole was determined to be 75 mm (*R*<sup>2</sup> = 75 mm). The design of the metering plate diameter should be greater than 2*R*<sup>2</sup> and a sufficient margin should be left. Combined with the *Design Manual for Agricultural Machinery* [16], the diameter of the metering plate was finally determined to be 200 mm (*D* = 200 mm).

= 6°. As shown in Figure 2, three points (OEF) constitute an isosceles triangle. The distance

The space between the inner and outer circles holes is an important factor to ensure the seeding quality of a double-row metering device. Furthermore, the space of the holes directly affects the stability of seed movement. The relationship between the inner and outer holes is shown in Figure 3. The space between the inner and outer circles holes is an important factor to ensure the seeding quality of a double-row metering device. Furthermore, the space of the holes directly affects the stability of seed movement. The relationship between the inner and outer holes is shown in Figure 3.

*L* satisfies the following: *L* > *d*2 + 2*l*max = 1.1 mm + 2 × 2.04 mm = 5.18 mm, where *l*max is the maximum length of seeds, mm. From the cosine theorem of isosceles triangle OEF, the

*<sup>L</sup> <sup>R</sup>*

2

2

2(1 cos( )) <sup>2</sup>

It can be calculated from the above equation that *R*2 > 49.39 mm. Considering that sufficient space was reserved for the inner circle hole of the metering plate and the space of the metering plate was fully utilized, the radius of the center of the outer circle hole was

be greater than 2*R*2 and a sufficient margin should be left. Combined with the *Design Manual for Agricultural Machinery* [16], the diameter of the metering plate was finally deter-

(5)

*Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 20

equation for calculating *R*2 is as follows:

mined to be 200 mm (*D* = 200 mm).

**Notes**: A. The center of outer circle hole; B. The center of inner circle hole; C. The center of inner circle adjacent hole; D. The center of arc length BC; O. The center of the metering plate

**Figure 3.** Geometry relationship of holes of inner and outer circles. **Figure 3.** Geometry relationship of holes of inner and outer circles.

P

(6) and (7):

According to Figure 3, the following geometric relationships are determined: According to Figure 3, the following geometric relationships are determined:

$$\begin{cases} \text{ Pythagorean theorem}: l\_{AD}^2 + l\_{CD}^2 = l\_{AC}^2\\ \text{Restrictions on length AC}: l\_{AC} > \frac{d\_1 + d\_2}{2} + 2\overline{D}e \end{cases} \tag{6}$$

$$\tau\_{\text{max}} \tag{7}$$

$$\begin{cases} \begin{array}{c} l\_{\text{CD}} = R\_1 \sin\left(\frac{\theta\_1}{2}\right) \\ R\_1 = R\_2 - l\_{AD} \end{array} \tag{7} \\\\ \begin{array}{c} l\_{\text{AD}} = R\_2 - l\_{AD} \end{array} \tag{8} \\\\ \begin{array}{c} l\_{\text{AD}} = R\_1 \sin\left(\frac{\theta\_1}{2}\right) \\ l\_{\text{AD}} = R\_2 \sin\left(\frac{\theta\_2}{2}\right) \end{array} \end{cases} \tag{7}$$

 where *R*<sup>1</sup> is the radius of the center of the inner circle hole, in mm.

1

*CD*

*l R*

1 2 *AD RRl* where *R*1 is the radius of the center of the inner circle hole, in mm. The spacing (*lAD*) between the inner and outer holes can be obtained from Equations (6) and (7):

$$I\_{AD} > \sqrt{\left(\frac{d\_1 + d\_2}{2} + 2\overline{De}\right)^2 - \left[\left(R\_2 - l\_{AD}\right)\sin\left(\frac{\theta\_1}{2}\right)\right]^2} \tag{8}$$

 <sup>2</sup> <sup>2</sup> 12 1 2 sin <sup>2</sup> 2 2 *AD e AD d d l D Rl* (8) The spacing between the inner and outer holes can be obtained (*lAD* > 2.18 mm) by substituting the known parameters into Equation (8). Taking into account the reasonable use of the space of the metering plate and the non-interference of the inner and outer holes, the spacing between the holes of the inner and outer circles (*lAD*) was determined to be 8 mm.

### 2.3.2. Design of Diversion Tube for Seed Metering Device

The diversion tube guides the seeds placed on the metering plate of double-row holes to form double-rows and the seeds flow and fall smoothly along the surface of the wall. The seeds drop from the outer circle holes through the No. 1 diversion tube, and the inner circle holes through the No. 2 diversion tube. The diversion tube is shown in Figure 4.

mm.

2.3.2. Design of Diversion Tube for Seed Metering Device

The spacing between the inner and outer holes can be obtained (*lAD* > 2.18 mm) by substituting the known parameters into Equation (8). Taking into account the reasonable use of the space of the metering plate and the non-interference of the inner and outer holes, the spacing between the holes of the inner and outer circles (*lAD*) was determined to be 8

The diversion tube guides the seeds placed on the metering plate of double-row holes to form double-rows and the seeds flow and fall smoothly along the surface of the wall. The seeds drop from the outer circle holes through the No. 1 diversion tube, and the inner circle holes through the No. 2 diversion tube. The diversion tube is shown in Figure 4.

*α* is the diversion angle, °; *β* is the angle between diversion tube and horizontal plane, °.

**Figure 4.** The structure of diversion tube.

**Figure 4.** The structure of diversion tube.

After analyzing the process of seed-dropping, the diversion angle *α* of the diversion tube was finally determined to be 60°. According to the experiment measurements, the static friction coefficient was completed earlier and the average value of the static friction angle between the seed and the diversion tube (Material: DSM IMAGE8000) was 18.95°. When *β* is greater than the static friction angle, the relative movement occur between the solid surfaces. The angle *β* can be calculated as: *β =* (180° − *α*)/2 = 60°. The seeds can fall smoothly in the diversion tube and form double-row seed flows at *β* > 18.95°. In this study, narrow rows were considered for planting BC, and row space was set to 100 mm (10 cm) according to agronomic requirements. After analyzing the process of seed-dropping, the diversion angle *α* of the diversion tube was finally determined to be 60◦ . According to the experiment measurements, the static friction coefficient was completed earlier and the average value of the static friction angle between the seed and the diversion tube (Material: DSM IMAGE8000) was 18.95◦ . When *β* is greater than the static friction angle, the relative movement occur between the solid surfaces. The angle *β* can be calculated as: *β =* (180◦ − *α*)/2 = 60◦ . The seeds can fall smoothly in the diversion tube and form double-row seed flows at *β* > 18.95◦ . In this study, narrow rows were considered for planting BC, and row space was set to 100 mm (10 cm) according to agronomic requirements.

### 2.3.3. Force Analysis of Seed-Filling Process 2.3.3. Force Analysis of Seed-Filling Process

Owing to high average spherical ratio, the seeds of BC can be regarded as a sphere during the force analysis of the seed-filling process. The force analysis is aimed at the outer circle seeds that are difficult to be adsorbed by the suction hole in the seed-filling zone. During the seed-filling process, the force acting on the adsorbed seeds was divided into component forces in three directions (*x*, *y*, *z*), as shown in Figure 5. Owing to high average spherical ratio, the seeds of BC can be regarded as a sphere during the force analysis of the seed-filling process. The force analysis is aimed at the outer circle seeds that are difficult to be adsorbed by the suction hole in the seed-filling zone. During the seed-filling process, the force acting on the adsorbed seeds was divided into component forces in three directions (*x*, *y*, *z*), as shown in Figure 5. *Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 20

Note: *f* is the friction resistance of air and seed population to adsorbed seed, N; *G* is gravity, N; *J* is the centrifugal force of the seed; *FNx* is the support of the suction hole to the seed in the *x* axis direction, N; *FNy* is the support of the suction hole to the seed in the *y* axis direction, N; *FNz* is the support of the suction hole to the seed in the *z* axis direction, N; *FNxy* is the resultant force of *FNx*  and *FNy*, N; *FP* is the adsorption force on the seed, N; *F* is the resultant force of *J*, *G*, and *f*, N; *α* is the seed-filling zone; *β* is the angle between *G* and *x* axis, °; *θ* is the angle between *G* and *y* axis, °; *b* is the distance between *F* and o, m; *r*2 is the distance between *FP* and o, m;

**Figure 5.** Force analysis of seeds on suction holes.

**Figure 5.** Force analysis of seeds on suction holes.

of forces must be satisfied in the *xy* plane:

tion (10):

hole is as follows:

A suction hole adsorbs a single seed, which must meet the following moment equilibrium conditions: A suction hole adsorbs a single seed, which must meet the following moment equilibrium conditions:

> *Nx Ny*

*F <sup>P</sup>* <sup>2</sup> *b Fr* (9)

*b*

 

2 2

2 2

*G*

*J b*

 

  (11)

(12)

$$F\_b \le F\_P r\_2 \tag{9}$$

(10)

(13)

 axis: cos( ) axis: cos( )

*P*

linear velocity at the center of the suction hole, in m/s.

*x fG F y JG F*

The resultant force *FNxy* of *FNx* and *FNy* on the *xy* plane are obtained according to Equa-

2 2 2 2 ( cos( )) ( cos( )) *F G Nxy Nx Ny F F f JG*

Since *F* is numerically equal to *FNxy* (*F* = *FNxy*), Equation (9) is rewritten as follows:

 

*<sup>F</sup> fG JG*

*f G S r*

2 2 2 ( cos( )) ( cos( ))

2

*S*

( cos( )) ( cos( )) π

( cos( )) ( cos( ))

3

2

*r*

*r*

According to the pressure formula (*P* = *F*/*S*), the adsorption pressure of the suction

*<sup>P</sup> <sup>F</sup> <sup>b</sup> <sup>P</sup>*

*fG JG*

where *P* is the adsorption pressure of the suction hole, in Pa; *S* is the area of suction hole, in mm2; *f* = *mgλ*, *λ* = (6~10)tan(*ε*), *ε* is the angle of repose of seeds, in °; *J* = *mv*2/*R*2, *vh* is the

For the seeds to be steadily adsorbed by the suction hole, the equilibrium condition of forces must be satisfied in the *xy* plane:

$$\begin{cases} \text{ x axis}: f + G\cos(\beta) = F\_{\text{Nx}} \\ \quad y \text{ axis}: f + G\cos(\theta) = F\_{\text{Ny}} \end{cases} \tag{10}$$

The resultant force *FNxy* of *FNx* and *FNy* on the *xy* plane are obtained according to Equation (10):

$$F\_{\rm Nxy} = \sqrt{F\_{\rm Nx}^2 + F\_{\rm Ny}^2} = \sqrt{\left(f + G\cos(\beta)\right)^2 + \left(f + G\cos(\theta)\right)^2} \tag{11}$$

Since *F* is numerically equal to *FNxy* (*F* = *FNxy*), Equation (9) is rewritten as follows:

$$F\_P \ge \frac{\sqrt{(f + G\cos(\beta))^2 + (f + G\cos(\theta))^2}b}{r\_2} \tag{12}$$

According to the pressure formula (*P* = *F*/*S*), the adsorption pressure of the suction hole is as follows:

$$\begin{split} P = \frac{F\_P}{S} &\geq \frac{\sqrt{\left(f + G\cos(\theta)\right)^2 + \left(I + G\cos(\theta)\right)^2}b}{r\_2S} \\ &\geq \frac{\sqrt{\left(f + G\cos(\theta)\right)^2 + \left(I + G\cos(\theta)\right)^2}b}{\pi r\_2^3} \end{split} \tag{13}$$

where *P* is the adsorption pressure of the suction hole, in Pa; *S* is the area of suction hole, in mm<sup>2</sup> ; *f* = *mgλ*, *λ* = (6~10)tan(*ε*), *ε* is the angle of repose of seeds, in ◦ ; *J* = *mv*2/*R*2, *v<sup>h</sup>* is the linear velocity at the center of the suction hole, in m/s. *Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 20

> The 1000-grain weight of the seed measured in the early stage was 2.41 g, so the average mass of each seed was 2.41 <sup>×</sup> <sup>10</sup>−<sup>6</sup> kg (*<sup>m</sup>* = 2.41 <sup>×</sup> <sup>10</sup>−<sup>6</sup> kg). The angle *<sup>θ</sup>* = 60◦ and *β* = 30◦ were measured when the hole was at the optimum seed-filling position. In the early stage, the angle of repose of seeds was measured to be 25.46◦ (*ε* = 25.46◦ ), so the value of *λ* can be calculated as 3.809 (*λ* = 8 tan(25.46◦ ) = 3.809). According to the *Design Manual for Agricultural Machinery* [16], the linear velocity at the center of the holes of the metering plate was *v* ≤ 0.35 m/s. The range of distance *b* was determined to be 1.21–1.83 mm, so the average value of *b* was 1.52 mm (*b* = 0.00152 m). Substituting the above parameters into Equation (13), the *P* obtained is greater than 324.4 Pa (*P* ≥ 324.4 Pa). The 1000-grain weight of the seed measured in the early stage was 2.41 g, so the average mass of each seed was 2.41 × 10−6 kg (*m* = 2.41 × 10−6 kg). The angle *θ* = 60° and *β* = 30° were measured when the hole was at the optimum seed-filling position. In the early stage, the angle of repose of seeds was measured to be 25.46° (*ε* = 25.46°), so the value of *λ* can be calculated as 3.809 (*λ* = 8 tan(25.46°) = 3.809). According to the *Design Manual for Agricultural Machinery* [16], the linear velocity at the center of the holes of the metering plate was *v* ≤ 0.35 m/s. The range of distance *b* was determined to be 1.21–1.83 mm, so the average value of *b* was 1.52 mm (*b* = 0.00152 m). Substituting the above parameters into Equation (13), the *P* obtained is greater than 324.4 Pa (*P* ≥ 324.4 Pa).

### *2.4. Experimental Materials and Equipment 2.4. Experimental Materials and Equipment*

The seeds of "*Shanghai Ai Ji*" were used as experimental material for the study. A self-built double-row metering device bench (Figure 6) was used for the experiments. The seeds of "*Shanghai Ai Ji*" were used as experimental material for the study. A selfbuilt double-row metering device bench (Figure 6) was used for the experiments.

1. Conveyor belt; 2. Digital display governor; 3. Vacuum tube; 4. Bench; 5. Piezometric tube; 6. Positive pressure tube

used for seeding performance.

ment [17,18].

60°, and 75°.

Combined with the research results of relevant scholars and previous experimental research, the main parameters affecting seeding performance were determined to be negative pressure, angular velocity of the metering plate, and cone angle of the suction hole. Therefore, NP, AV, and CA were selected as the main experimental factors of this experi-

A suitable NP value can adsorb the seeds and ensure that only one seed is adsorbed by one suction hole. According to the theoretical calculation results, the minimum value of NP was (*P* ≥ 324.4 Pa) and based on the design of this study, a combination of a doublerow metering plate coupled with the existence of pressure loss resulted in the selection requirements for the NP value being relatively strict [19]. After the pre-experiment, the NP value was selected to be 0.5~2.5 kPa. It was found that when the rotation speed of the metering plate exceeded 35 r/min (converted to AV of 3.67 rad/s), the seeding performance of the metering device decreased sharply. As such, the AV of the metering plate was changed at 1.5–3.5 rad/s. The change in the CA of the suction hole directly affected the change in the flow field at the suction hole, which led to a change in adsorption force of the suction hole. According to the pre-experiment, when the CA of the suction hole changed from 45° to 75°, it was observed that the adsorption situation of the suction hole of the inner and outer circles was good. Therefore, three kinds of metering plate with different cone angles of the suction hole were custom-machined, having cone angles of 45°,

### *2.5. Experimental Methods and Evaluation Indicators*

Combined with the research results of relevant scholars and previous experimental research, the main parameters affecting seeding performance were determined to be negative pressure, angular velocity of the metering plate, and cone angle of the suction hole. Therefore, NP, AV, and CA were selected as the main experimental factors of this experiment [17,18].

A suitable NP value can adsorb the seeds and ensure that only one seed is adsorbed by one suction hole. According to the theoretical calculation results, the minimum value of NP was (*P* ≥ 324.4 Pa) and based on the design of this study, a combination of a doublerow metering plate coupled with the existence of pressure loss resulted in the selection requirements for the NP value being relatively strict [19]. After the pre-experiment, the NP value was selected to be 0.5~2.5 kPa. It was found that when the rotation speed of the metering plate exceeded 35 r/min (converted to AV of 3.67 rad/s), the seeding performance of the metering device decreased sharply. As such, the AV of the metering plate was changed at 1.5–3.5 rad/s. The change in the CA of the suction hole directly affected the change in the flow field at the suction hole, which led to a change in adsorption force of the suction hole. According to the pre-experiment, when the CA of the suction hole changed from 45◦ to 75◦ , it was observed that the adsorption situation of the suction hole of the inner and outer circles was good. Therefore, three kinds of metering plate with different cone angles of the suction hole were custom-machined, having cone angles of 45◦ , 60◦ , and 75◦ .

Each group of experiments was repeated three times, and its average value was taken. According to the National Standard of P.R.C (GB/T 6973-2005 Testing Methods of Single Seed Drills (Precision Drills)) [20], the QI and the MI of the inner and outer circles of the metering device were determined as the indexes of seeding performance in this experiment. This experiment measured 180 samples of planting spacing. The dense planting spacing of BC was 4~5 cm according to the agronomic requirements, so the theoretically qualified planting spacing (*L*) of this experiment was set to 4.5 cm. According to the requirements where the planting spacing was within the range of (0.5*L* = 2.25 cm, and 1.5*L* = 6.75 cm), it was qualified spacing; where the planting spacing was greater than 6.75 cm, it was miss spacing; and where the planting spacing was less than 2.25 cm, it was multiple spacing. Qualified spacing and miss spacing coupled with the total sample number (180) were used to calculate the qualified index (QI) and miss index (MI), respectively, as percentages. The experimental scheme is shown in Table 2.

**Table 2.** Experiment factors and levels.


Note: [a] NP = Negative pressure; [b] AV = Angular velocity; [c] CA = Cone angle.

### **3. Results and Discussion**

### *3.1. Single Factor Experiment*

3.1.1. Effect of Negative Pressure on Seeding Performance

From Figure 7, it can be seen that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s and the CA was 60◦ , the influence trend of NP on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circles was essentially similar. With increase in NP, the QI of the inner and outer circles first increased and then decreased, and the MI of the inner and outer circles decreased continuously. The qualified index of the outer circle (*QO*) reached the maximum value (*Qo*max = 95.45%) and the qualified index of the inner circle (*Q<sup>I</sup>* ) reached the maximum value (*QI*max = 94.58%) when the NP was 1.71 and 1.63 kPa, respectively.

centages. The experimental scheme is shown in Table 2.

3.1.1. Effect of Negative Pressure on Seeding Performance

**Level NP [a]** *x***1,kPa AV [b]** *x***2, rads−<sup>1</sup> CA [c]** *x***3, °** −1 0.5 1.5 45 0 1.5 2.5 60 1 2.5 3.5 75

From Figure 7, it can be seen that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s and the CA was 60°, the influence trend of NP on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circles was essentially similar. With increase in NP, the QI of the inner and outer circles first increased and then decreased, and the MI of the inner and outer circles decreased continuously. The qualified index of the outer circle (*QO*) reached the maximum value (*Qo*max = 95.45%) and the qualified index of the inner circle (*QI*) reached the maxi-

Note: [a] NP = Negative pressure; [b] AV = Angular velocity; [c] CA = Cone angle.

mum value (*QI*max = 94.58%) when the NP was 1.71 and 1.63 kPa, respectively.

**Table 2.** Experiment factors and levels.

**3. Results and Discussion**  *3.1. Single Factor Experiment* 

**Figure 7. Figure 7.** Effect of NP on seeding performance at AV of 2.5 rad/s and CA of 60°. Effect of NP on seeding performance at AV of 2.5 rad/s and CA of 60◦ . that adsorbed multiple seeds, which led to an increase in the multiple index of the inner and outer circles. As a result, the QI was reduced at this time.

When the NP value was low, the adsorption force of the suction holes on the seeds was relatively small such that the phenomenon of missed suctioning occurred in the suction hole of the inner and outer circles. This resulted in the MI being high (*M* ≥ 7%). At this time, owing to the large radius of the outer circle, the high linear velocity at the center of the suction hole of the outer circle, and the smaller time of seed-filling, the *Q<sup>I</sup>* was higher than the *QO*. When the NP gradually increased, the adsorption force of the suction holes on the seeds also increased, and the MI of the inner and outer circles decreased sharply. When the NP was too high, there were some suction holes in the inner and outer circles that adsorbed multiple seeds, which led to an increase in the multiple index of the inner and outer circles. As a result, the QI was reduced at this time. From Figure 7, it can also be seen that the QI of inner and outer circles was high (*Q* ≥ 92%) and the MI of inner and outer circles was low (*M* ≤ 4%) when the NP was in the range of 1.57–2.16 kPa. 3.1.2. Effect of Angular Velocity on Seeding Performance The influence trend of AV of the metering plate on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circles was fundamentally similar (Figure 8) at 1.5 kPa negative pressure and 60° cone angle. When the AV of the metering plate was low, the seed cleaning device of the inner circle had weaker collision strength for the seeds which then were reabsorbed by the suction hole. As a result, there was a higher multiple index for the inner circle, such that the

Each group of experiments was repeated three times, and its average value was taken. According to the National Standard of P.R.C (GB/T 6973-2005 Testing Methods of Single Seed Drills (Precision Drills)) [20], the QI and the MI of the inner and outer circles of the metering device were determined as the indexes of seeding performance in this experiment. This experiment measured 180 samples of planting spacing. The dense planting spacing of BC was 4~5 cm according to the agronomic requirements, so the theoretically qualified planting spacing (*L*) of this experiment was set to 4.5 cm. According to the requirements where the planting spacing was within the range of (0.5*L* = 2.25 cm, and 1.5*L*  = 6.75 cm), it was qualified spacing; where the planting spacing was greater than 6.75 cm, it was miss spacing; and where the planting spacing was less than 2.25 cm, it was multiple spacing. Qualified spacing and miss spacing coupled with the total sample number (180) were used to calculate the qualified index (QI) and miss index (MI), respectively, as per-

From Figure 7, it can also be seen that the QI of inner and outer circles was high (*Q* ≥ 92%) and the MI of inner and outer circles was low (*M* ≤ 4%) when the NP was in the range of 1.57–2.16 kPa. *QO* was higher than the *QI*. When the AV of the metering plate gradually increased, the QI of inner and outer circles first increased and reached the peak (*QI*max = 94.58%, *Qo*max = 95.45%), and then decreased. Where the AV of the metering plate was too large, the seedfilling time of the suction hole was too short when the metering plate passed through the

### 3.1.2. Effect of Angular Velocity on Seeding Performance seed-filling zone. As a result, there was missed suctioning of the suction hole of the inner

The influence trend of AV of the metering plate on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circles was fundamentally similar (Figure 8) at 1.5 kPa negative pressure and 60◦ cone angle. and outer circles, so that the MI of the inner and outer circles was high (*M* ≥ 7%). From Figure 8, it can also be seen that the QI of the inner and outer circles was high (*Q* ≥ 92%) and the MI of the inner and outer circles was low (*M* ≤ 4%) when the AV was in the range of 1.62–2.28 rad/s.

**Figure 8. Figure 8.** Effect of AV on seeding performance at NP of 1.5 kPa and CA of 60°. Effect of AV on seeding performance at NP of 1.5 kPa and CA of 60◦ .

When the AV of the metering plate was low, the seed cleaning device of the inner circle had weaker collision strength for the seeds which then were reabsorbed by the suction hole. As a result, there was a higher multiple index for the inner circle, such that the *Q<sup>O</sup>* was higher than the *Q<sup>I</sup>* . When the AV of the metering plate gradually increased, the QI of inner and outer circles first increased and reached the peak (*QI*max = 94.58%, *Qo*max = 95.45%), and then decreased. Where the AV of the metering plate was too large, the seed-filling time of the suction hole was too short when the metering plate passed through the seed-filling zone. As a result, there was missed suctioning of the suction hole of the inner and outer circles, so that the MI of the inner and outer circles was high (*M* ≥ 7%). *Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 20 3.1.3. Effect of Cone Angle on Seeding Performance The influence trend of CA of the suction hole on the seeding performance of the inner

From Figure 8, it can also be seen that the QI of the inner and outer circles was high (*Q* ≥ 92%) and the MI of the inner and outer circles was low (*M* ≤ 4%) when the AV was in the range of 1.62–2.28 rad/s. and outer circles was fundamentally similar (Figure 9) at 1.5 kPa negative pressure and 2.5 rad/s angular velocity. When the CA of the suction hole was small, the adsorption force of the suction hole

acting on the seed was relatively concentrated, which led to the phenomenon of some

### 3.1.3. Effect of Cone Angle on Seeding Performance suction holes in the inner and outer circles adsorbing multiple seeds, so that the QI of the

The influence trend of CA of the suction hole on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circles was fundamentally similar (Figure 9) at 1.5 kPa negative pressure and 2.5 rad/s angular velocity. inner and outer circles was not high (*Q* ≤ 93%). When the CA of the suction hole increased, the QI of the inner and outer circles first increased and reached the peak (*QI*max = 94.78%, *Qo*max = 95.91%), and then decreased.

**Figure 9.** Effect of CA on seeding performance at NP of 1.5 kPa and AV of 2.5 rad/s. **Figure 9.** Effect of CA on seeding performance at NP of 1.5 kPa and AV of 2.5 rad/s.

*3.2. Central Composite Design Experiment*  3.2.1. Experimental Design and Results The experimental scheme design and coding of influencing factors was performed according to the Central Composite Design in Design-Expert 8.0.6 software. This software was also used to process and analyze the experimental data. The experiment scheme and When the CA of the suction hole was small, the adsorption force of the suction hole acting on the seed was relatively concentrated, which led to the phenomenon of some suction holes in the inner and outer circles adsorbing multiple seeds, so that the QI of the inner and outer circles was not high (*Q* ≤ 93%). When the CA of the suction hole increased, the QI of the inner and outer circles first increased and reached the peak (*QI*max = 94.78%, *Qo*max = 95.91%), and then decreased.

## results are shown in Table 3. *3.2. Central Composite Design Experiment*

### **Table 3.** Experimental scheme and results. 3.2.1. Experimental Design and Results

**NO. NP [a]** *x***1, kPa AV [b]** *x***2, rads−1 CA[c]** *x***3, ° QI [d], % MI [e], % QI, % MI, % OC [f] IC [g]** 1 −1 −1 −1 85.56 13.33 91.11 8.33 2 1 −1 −1 92.78 3.33 88.89 2.22 The experimental scheme design and coding of influencing factors was performed according to the Central Composite Design in Design-Expert 8.0.6 software. This software was also used to process and analyze the experimental data. The experiment scheme and results are shown in Table 3.

3 −1 1 −1 78.33 21.67 74.44 25.56 4 1 1 −1 91.11 4.44 88.33 6.11 5 −1 −1 1 87.22 9.44 91.67 7.22 6 1 −1 1 92.78 3.89 87.78 1.67 7 −1 1 1 77.22 22.78 75.00 25.00

10 1 0 0 89.44 3.89 87.78 2.22 11 0 −1 0 93.33 3.33 91.11 1.67 12 0 1 0 87.78 7.78 88.89 8.33 13 0 0 −1 92.78 2.78 91.67 1.67 14 0 0 1 94.44 3.89 92.22 1.11


**Table 3.** Experimental scheme and results.

**Note**: [a] NP = Negative pressure; [b] AV = Angular velocity; [c] CA = Cone angle; [d] QI = Qualified index; [e] MI = Miss index; [f] OC = Outer circle; [g] IC = Inner circle.

### 3.2.2. Analysis of Variance

Multiple regression fitting of the experimental results was performed using ANOVA in Design-Expert 8.0.6 software. This is shown in Table 4. After multiple regression analysis, the regression equations of the QI (*Q*) of the inner and outer circles, the MI (*M*) of the inner and outer circles, and various influencing factors can be obtained as follows:

$$\begin{array}{l} Q\_{\rm O} = 101.399 + 19.622 \mathbf{x}\_1 + 1.951 \mathbf{x}\_2 - 0.893 \mathbf{x}\_3 + 1.875 \mathbf{x}\_1 \mathbf{x}\_2 + 0.005 \mathbf{x}\_1 \mathbf{x}\_3\\ - 0.014 \mathbf{x}\_2 \mathbf{x}\_3 - 6.567 \mathbf{x}\_1^2 - 1.287 \mathbf{x}\_2^2 + 0.008 \mathbf{x}\_3^2 \end{array} \tag{14}$$

$$\begin{aligned} M\_O &= 10.811 - 19.610\mathbf{x}\_1 - 1.740\mathbf{x}\_2 + 0.397\mathbf{x}\_3 - 2.503\mathbf{x}\_1\mathbf{x}\_2 + 0.028\mathbf{x}\_1\mathbf{x}\_3\\ &+ 0.037\mathbf{x}\_2\mathbf{x}\_3 + 5.935\mathbf{x}\_1^2 + 1.210\mathbf{x}\_2^2 - 0.004\mathbf{x}\_3^2 \end{aligned} \tag{15}$$

$$\begin{array}{l} Q\_{\text{I}} = 93.042 + 12.154 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{I}} - 1.755 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{2}} - 0.151 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{3}} + 4.028 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{1}} \mathbf{x}\_{\text{2}} - 0.028 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{1}} \mathbf{x}\_{\text{3}} \\ + 1.591 \times 10^{-15} \mathbf{x}\_{\text{2}} \mathbf{x}\_{\text{3}} - 6.036 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{1}}^2 - 1.591 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{2}}^2 + 0.002 \mathbf{x}\_{\text{3}}^2 \end{array} \tag{16}$$

$$\begin{array}{c} M\_{\rm I} = -15.778 - 15.550 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm I} + 1.872 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 2} + 0.961 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 3} - 3.683 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 1} \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 2} - 0.014 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 1} \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 3} \\ - 0.014 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 2} \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 3} + 6.288 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 1}^2 + 1.843 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 2}^2 - 0.008 \mathbf{x}\_{\rm 3}^2 \end{array} \tag{17}$$

From Table 4, it can be seen that the *P-*value of each evaluation indicator (*QO*, *MO*, *QI* , *M<sup>I</sup>* ) is less than 0.01, indicating that the regression model established in this paper is highly significant. Furthermore, the lack of fit for each model was greater than 0.05, which indicates that the four regression equations are highly fitted. The coefficients of determination (*R* 2 ) of the four models are 0.965, 0.990, 0.947, and 0.991, respectively. These coefficients of determination are all close to 1, indicating that the four models had a high fitting degree to the experimental data. The non-significant factors with *p*-value > 0.05 were eliminated according to the significant level *p*-value of different influencing factors in each model, and the following optimized regression equations were obtained:

$$Q\_{\rm O} = 84.880 + 19.036x\_1 - 5.314x\_2 + 1.875x\_1x\_2 - 6.278x\_1^2 \tag{18}$$

$$M\_O = 15.121 - 16.804 \mathbf{x}\_1 + 2.373 \mathbf{x}\_2 - 2.503 \mathbf{x}\_1 \mathbf{x}\_2 + 5.557 \mathbf{x}\_1^2 + 0.832 \mathbf{x}\_2^2 \tag{19}$$

$$Q\_{\rm I} = 97.688 + 12.710\mathbf{x}\_1 - 9.709\mathbf{x}\_2 + 4.028\mathbf{x}\_1\mathbf{x}\_2 - 6.778\mathbf{x}\_1^2\tag{20}$$

$$M\_{\rm I} = 9.248 - 14.478x\_1 + 4.202x\_2 - 3.683x\_1x\_2 + 5.654x\_1^2 + 1.209x\_2^2 - 0.0003x\_3^2 \tag{21}$$


**Table 4.** ANOVA for response surface quadratic model.

Note: [a] EI = Evaluation Indicators; [b] SS = Sum of Squares; [c] DF = Degree of Freedom; [d] *Q<sup>O</sup>* = Qualified index of outer circle; [e] *M<sup>O</sup>* = Miss index of outer circle; [f] *Q<sup>I</sup>* = Qualified index of inner circle; [g] *M<sup>I</sup>* = Miss index of inner circle; \* (0.01 < *p* < 0.05); \*\* (*p* < 0.01).

It can be seen from Equations (18)–(21) that the significant factors that affect the *Q<sup>I</sup>* of the inner and outer circles are NP (*x*1), AV (*x*2), the interaction term of NP and AV (*x*1*x*2), and the quadratic term of NP (*x*<sup>1</sup> 2 ). The significant factors affecting the MI of the inner and

outer circles are NP (*x*1), AV (*x*2), the interaction term of NP and AV (*x*1*x*2), the quadratic term of NP (*x*<sup>1</sup> 2 ), and the quadratic term of AV (*x*<sup>2</sup> 2 ). In addition to the above, other factors affecting the miss index of the inner circle (*M<sup>I</sup>* ) include quadratic term of the CA (*x*<sup>3</sup> 2 ). the change in CA had no significant effect on the *QO* and *MO*. It can be seen from Figure 10c that when the CA was 60°, under the condition of similar AV, the *QO* first increased and then decreased with the increase in NP, while the *MO* was completely opposite. Under the condition of similar NP, the *QO* first increased and then decreased with the increase in AV. When the AV was in the range of 1.5–2.2 rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone was lengthy, and this was beneficial to the suction hole for seed-filling, since it increased the *QO*. When the

It can be seen from Figure 10c that when the CA was 60°, under the condition of similar AV, the *QO* first increased and then decreased with the increase in NP, while the

*MO* was completely opposite. Under the condition of similar NP, the *QO* first increased

the suction hole. Under the condition of similar AV, the change in CA had no significant

Figure 10b shows that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s, under the condition of similar CA, the *QO* increased with the increase in NP, and then decreased, while the *MO* was the opposite. At 0.5–1.8 kPa negative pressure, the suction force of the holes for seeds gradually increased with the increase in NP, so that the QI increased significantly and the MI decreased suddenly. When the NP was in the range of 1.8–2.5 kPa, one suction hole adsorbed multiple seeds because of the excessive adsorption force, which led to an increase in multiple index and decrease in QI. Under the condition of similar NP,

the suction hole. Under the condition of similar AV, the change in CA had no significant

Figure 10b shows that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s, under the condition of similar CA, the *QO* increased with the increase in NP, and then decreased, while the *MO* was the opposite. At 0.5–1.8 kPa negative pressure, the suction force of the holes for seeds gradually increased with the increase in NP, so that the QI increased significantly and the MI decreased suddenly. When the NP was in the range of 1.8–2.5 kPa, one suction hole adsorbed multiple seeds because of the excessive adsorption force, which led to an increase in multiple index and decrease in QI. Under the condition of similar NP,

### 3.2.3. Effect of Interaction Factors on Seeding Performance and then decreased with the increase in AV. When the AV was in the range of 1.5–2.2 AV was greater than 2.2 rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling

the change in CA had no significant effect on the *QO* and *MO*.

*Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 20

*Sustainability* **2021**, *13*, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 20

effect on the *QO* and *MO*.

effect on the *QO* and *MO*.

The descending dimension method was used to adjust the coding of any of the three influencing factors of NP, AV, and CA to zero [21], and the response surface diagram of the interaction of the other two influencing factors on the seeding performance of the inner and outer circle was plotted, as shown in Figures 10 and 11. rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone was lengthy, and this was beneficial to the suction hole for seed-filling, since it increased the *QO*. When the AV was greater than 2.2 rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone was shortened, and the phenomenon of missed suctioning of the suction hole increased. As a result, the *MO* increased rapidly. zone was shortened, and the phenomenon of missed suctioning of the suction hole increased. As a result, the *MO* increased rapidly.

**Figure 10.** Effect of interaction factors on seeding performance of outer circle when NP = 1.5 kPa, AV = 2.5 rad/s, and CA = 60°, respectively **Figure 10.** Effect of interaction factors on seeding performance of outer circle when NP = 1.5 kPa, AV = 2.5 rad/s, and CA = 60◦ , respectively **Figure 10.** Effect of interaction factors on seeding performance of outer circle when NP = 1.5 kPa, AV = 2.5 rad/s, and CA = 60°, respectively

**Figure 11.** Effect of interaction factors on seeding performance of inner circle when NP = 1.5 kPa, AV = 2.5 rad/s, and CA = 60°, respectively. **Figure 11.** Effect of interaction factors on seeding performance of inner circle when NP = 1.5 kPa, AV = 2.5 rad/s, and CA = 60◦ , respectively.

and AV was in the range of 1.65–2.35 rad/s.

3.2.4. Parameter Optimization

as follows:

the change in CA had no significant effect on the *QI*, while the *MI* first increased and then decreased with the increase in CA. Under the condition of similar CA, *QI* decreased with the increase in AV, but the trend for *MI* was the opposite. It can be seen from Figure 11b that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s, under the condition of similar NP, the change in CA had no significant effect on the *QI* and *MI*. Under the condition of similar CA, when the NP was in the range of 0.5–1.7 kPa, *QI* increased with the increase in NP, but the *MI* decreased sharply with the increase in NP. When NP was greater than 1.7 kPa, *QI* decreased with the increase in NP. From Figure 11c, it is evident that when CA was 60°, under the condition of similar AV, the *QI* first increased and then decreased with the increase in NP, while the trend for *MO* was the opposite. When the NP was low (NP ≤ 1.4 kPa), the effect of AV on the *QI* and *MI* was significant. *QI* decreased with the increase in AV, while the trend for *MI* was the opposite. When NP was large (NP > 1.4 kPa), the effect of AV on *QI* and *MI* was not significant. Overall, it was determined from the figure that *QI* was high (*QI* > 92%) and *MI* was low (*MI* < 5.5%) when NP was in the range of 1.2–1.6 kPa

In order to explore the optimal parameter combination, the parameter optimization design was carried out. According to the National Standard of P.R.C (GB/T 6973-2005 Testing Methods of Single Seed Drills (Precision Drills)) [20], under the premise of ensuring a high QI and low MI of seeding, parameter optimization was carried out with the goal that the QI of the inner and outer circle was greater than 94% and the MI was less than 2.5%. This is shown in Figure 12. According to the previous single factor experiment on CA, when the other two factors were at zero level and CA was 60°, the performance of seeding was better. There, CA was set at 60°. The parameter optimization conditions are

*Q xxx Qxxx*

94% ( , , ), ( , , ) 100%

123 123

0 ( , , ), ( , , ) 2.5%

123 123

(22)

*M xx x Mxx x*

*O I*

2

1

0.5kPa 2.5kPa s.t. 1.5rad/s 3.5rad/s

*x x*

*O I*

3

*x*

60

It can be seen from Figure 10a at 1.5 kPa negative pressure under similar CA, the *Q<sup>O</sup>* decreased with an increase in AV, but the trend for *M<sup>O</sup>* was the opposite. This can be attributed to the shortening of the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone with the increase in the AV of the metering plate, resulting in missed suctioning of the suction hole. Under the condition of similar AV, the change in CA had no significant effect on the *Q<sup>O</sup>* and *MO*.

Figure 10b shows that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s, under the condition of similar CA, the *Q<sup>O</sup>* increased with the increase in NP, and then decreased, while the *M<sup>O</sup>* was the opposite. At 0.5–1.8 kPa negative pressure, the suction force of the holes for seeds gradually increased with the increase in NP, so that the QI increased significantly and the MI decreased suddenly. When the NP was in the range of 1.8–2.5 kPa, one suction hole adsorbed multiple seeds because of the excessive adsorption force, which led to an increase in multiple index and decrease in QI. Under the condition of similar NP, the change in CA had no significant effect on the *Q<sup>O</sup>* and *MO*.

It can be seen from Figure 10c that when the CA was 60◦ , under the condition of similar AV, the *Q<sup>O</sup>* first increased and then decreased with the increase in NP, while the *M<sup>O</sup>* was completely opposite. Under the condition of similar NP, the *Q<sup>O</sup>* first increased and then decreased with the increase in AV. When the AV was in the range of 1.5–2.2 rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone was lengthy, and this was beneficial to the suction hole for seed-filling, since it increased the *QO*. When the AV was greater than 2.2 rad/s, the residence time of the metering plate in the seed-filling zone was shortened, and the phenomenon of missed suctioning of the suction hole increased. As a result, the *M<sup>O</sup>* increased rapidly.

Figure 11a shows that when the NP was 1.5 kPa, under the condition of similar AV, the change in CA had no significant effect on the *Q<sup>I</sup>* , while the *M<sup>I</sup>* first increased and then decreased with the increase in CA. Under the condition of similar CA, *Q<sup>I</sup>* decreased with the increase in AV, but the trend for *M<sup>I</sup>* was the opposite. It can be seen from Figure 11b that when the AV of the metering plate was 2.5 rad/s, under the condition of similar NP, the change in CA had no significant effect on the *Q<sup>I</sup>* and *M<sup>I</sup>* . Under the condition of similar CA, when the NP was in the range of 0.5–1.7 kPa, *Q<sup>I</sup>* increased with the increase in NP, but the *M<sup>I</sup>* decreased sharply with the increase in NP. When NP was greater than 1.7 kPa, *Q<sup>I</sup>* decreased with the increase in NP. From Figure 11c, it is evident that when CA was 60◦ , under the condition of similar AV, the *Q<sup>I</sup>* first increased and then decreased with the increase in NP, while the trend for *M<sup>O</sup>* was the opposite. When the NP was low (NP ≤ 1.4 kPa), the effect of AV on the *Q<sup>I</sup>* and *M<sup>I</sup>* was significant. *Q<sup>I</sup>* decreased with the increase in AV, while the trend for *M<sup>I</sup>* was the opposite. When NP was large (NP > 1.4 kPa), the effect of AV on *Q<sup>I</sup>* and *M<sup>I</sup>* was not significant. Overall, it was determined from the figure that *Q<sup>I</sup>* was high (*Q<sup>I</sup>* > 92%) and *M<sup>I</sup>* was low (*M<sup>I</sup>* < 5.5%) when NP was in the range of 1.2–1.6 kPa and AV was in the range of 1.65–2.35 rad/s.

### 3.2.4. Parameter Optimization

In order to explore the optimal parameter combination, the parameter optimization design was carried out. According to the National Standard of P.R.C (GB/T 6973-2005 Testing Methods of Single Seed Drills (Precision Drills)) [20], under the premise of ensuring a high QI and low MI of seeding, parameter optimization was carried out with the goal that the QI of the inner and outer circle was greater than 94% and the MI was less than 2.5%. This is shown in Figure 12. According to the previous single factor experiment on CA, when the other two factors were at zero level and CA was 60◦ , the performance of

**Experiment Indices** 

Seed mass of outer

seeding was better. There, CA was set at 60◦ . The parameter optimization conditions are as follows:

$$\begin{cases} \mathsf{94\%} \le \left( Q\_{\mathcal{O}}(\mathbf{x}\_{1}, \mathbf{x}\_{2}, \mathbf{x}\_{3}), Q\_{\mathcal{I}}(\mathbf{x}\_{1}, \mathbf{x}\_{2}, \mathbf{x}\_{3}) \right) \le 100\% \\\\ \begin{cases} 0 \le (M\_{\mathcal{O}}(\mathbf{x}\_{1}, \mathbf{x}\_{2}, \mathbf{x}\_{3}), M\_{\mathcal{I}}(\mathbf{x}\_{1}, \mathbf{x}\_{2}, \mathbf{x}\_{3})) \le 2.5\% \\\\ \text{s.t.} \begin{cases} 0.5 \,\mathrm{kPa} \le \mathbf{x}\_{1} \le 2.5 \,\mathrm{kPa} \\\ 1.5 \,\mathrm{rad/s} \le \mathbf{x}\_{2} \le 3.5 \,\mathrm{rad/s} \\\ \mathbf{x}\_{3} = 60^{\circ} \end{cases} \end{cases} \end{cases} \tag{22}$$

The graph intersection area is the parameter optimization area as described in Figure 12. When NP was 1.55–1.72 kPa and AV was 1.1–1.9 rad/s, the seeding performance was The graph intersection area is the parameter optimization area as described in Figure 12. When NP was 1.55–1.72 kPa and AV was 1.1–1.9 rad/s, the seeding performance was excellent.

### excellent. 3.2.5. Bench Verification Experiment

3.2.5. Bench Verification Experiment A bench verification experiment was used to verify whether the expected seeding performance [94% ≤ (*QO*, *QI*) ≤ 100%, 0 ≤ (*MO*, *MI*) ≤ 2.5%] and excellent CV of the seed mass could be achieved under the condition of optimized parameters, and the experiment was repeated three times and five times, respectively, under the median value of the range of parameter optimization (NP = 1.63 kPa, AV = 1.5 rad/s, CA = 60°). The results of the bench verification experiments are shown in Tables 5 and 6. It was observed from the experiment results that the seeding performance was excellent {(*QO*, *QI*) > 94%, (*MO*, *MI*) < 2.5%} and CV was good (CV of the seed mass in the outer and inner circle: 5.15%; CV of total seed mass: 8.60%) under the condition of optimized parameters. Therefore, the pa-A bench verification experiment was used to verify whether the expected seeding performance [94% ≤ (*QO*, *Q<sup>I</sup>* ) ≤ 100%, 0 ≤ (*MO*, *M<sup>I</sup>* ) ≤ 2.5%] and excellent CV of the seed mass could be achieved under the condition of optimized parameters, and the experiment was repeated three times and five times, respectively, under the median value of the range of parameter optimization (NP = 1.63 kPa, AV = 1.5 rad/s, CA = 60◦ ). The results of the bench verification experiments are shown in Tables 5 and 6. It was observed from the experiment results that the seeding performance was excellent {(*QO*, *Q<sup>I</sup>* ) > 94%, (*MO*, *M<sup>I</sup>* ) < 2.5%} and CV was good (CV of the seed mass in the outer and inner circle: 5.15%; CV of total seed mass: 8.60%) under the condition of optimized parameters. Therefore, the parameter optimization results were accurate.


**Number of Experiments** 

circle, g 2.072 1.897 1.972 1.910 1.889 1.948 2.068 5.80

Total seed mass, g 3.910 3.705 3.741 3.734 3.705 3.759 4.136 9.12


IC 2.08 1.25 1.67 1.67 0.34

**Mass, % NO.1 NO.2 NO.3 NO.4 NO.5** 

**Mean TSM [a] RE [b], % CV [c], %** 

**CV of Total Seed** 

[a] TSM = Theoretical seed mass; [b] RE = Relative error; [c] CV = Coefficient of variation.

Seed mass of inner 5.15 8.60

**Table 6.** The results of coefficient of variation of seed mass.


**Table 6.** The results of coefficient of variation of seed mass.

[a] TSM = Theoretical seed mass; [b] RE = Relative error; [c] CV = Coefficient of variation.

### **4. Conclusions**


**Author Contributions:** Conceptualization, B.L., H.L. and X.Q.; methodology, B.L. and R.A.; software, B.L. and S.M.N.; validation, B.L., J.W. and S.L.; formal analysis, B.L. and X.C.; investigation, B.L. and H.L.; resources, B.L. and R.A.; data curation, B.L.; writing—original draft preparation, B.L.; writing—review and editing, B.L., H.L., X.Q., R.A., S.M.N., J.W., X.C. and S.L.; supervision, H.L. and X.Q.; project administration, H.L.; funding acquisition, J.W. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

**Funding:** This research was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China "Vegetable Intelligent Fine Production Technology and Equipment R&D" (Grant No. 2017YFD0701302).

**Data Availability Statement:** The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to privacy.

**Acknowledgments:** We would like to thank "College of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University" and "College of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Nanjing Tech University"

**Conflicts of Interest:** The authors declare no conflict of interest.
