Machinery Systems Design

Farm MachineryMachinery design and improved performance of machine systems are the main goals of the research in this area. A computer controlled machine-soil simulator is available to conduct research on the function of tillage tools and traction devices.

Current projects include the development of a soil sampling and packaging machine for site specific farming; development of soil condition sensors and models to measure and predict soil condition; grain yield and moisture sensor development; crop residue measurement using computer vision in real time; other projects include implement and vehicle design to improve performance. A Machine Computations Laboratory provides access to ANSYS, CADSI-DADS, AutoCAD, Working Model, and other supporting software.

Key Faculty

Jonathan Chaplin

Precision farming machinery, machine design and safety, machinery system performance, computer-aided design.