BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRIBUSINESS

INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING

Subject

Machinery and Equipment Design

Module Title 3

Prepared by:
WYNNIE U. RONDON
Instructor
 Module Title 3
Machinery and Equipment Design

Module Content:
1. Introduction to Machinery Design
2. Engineering Principles in Machinery Design
3. Safety Standards and Regulations
4. Tractor Design and Performance
5. Implement and Equipment Design
6. Precision Seeding and Planting Equipment
7. Harvesting Machinery Design
8. Sustainability in Machinery Design
Objective:
At the end of the module, the student should be able to:

 Apply engineering design principles to develop innovative and efficient machinery and equipment for various
agricultural applications, considering safety and sustainability.
 Apply data analytics and decision support systems to interpret agricultural data, making informed decisions that
enhance productivity and resource management.

Lesson Proper
LO1. Introduction to Machinery Design

Engineering Design - “design” comes from the Latin ‘designare’, which means to designate or mark out.
- It is the process of applying the various techniques and specific principles for the purposes of defining a device, a
process or a system in sufficient detail to permit its physical realization.

Machine – combination of mechanisms and other components that transforms, transmits, or uses energy, load, or motion
for a specific purpose.
- Assemblage of several components for the purpose of transforming external energy into useful work.

When we design, we specify the following

1. Configuration
2. Shape
3. Arrangement
 When we design, we specify: Size / dimension
e.g. Diameter, length, thickness, height, gauge number, etc

When we design, we specify:

Materials

e.g. Metals, plastics, wood,

ceramics, composites, etc
When we design, we specify:
- Manufacturing process to be
(e.g. welding, joining, machining, drilling, forming, etc.)

When we design, we should see the

interactions:
1. Function
2. Material
3. Shape
4. Process

TALENTS AND BODIES OF

1. Knowledge, ability, talent to generate ideas and/or possibilities

2. Knowledge of how to evaluate and sort“good” from “bad” ideas
3. Knowledge of the structure of design and how to tailor the process to the task at hand

LO2. Engineering Principles in Machinery Design

Machinery design is the process of creating machines that perform specific tasks efficiently. It involves applying
engineering principles such as mechanics, material science, and thermodynamics.
 Core Engineering Principles

1. Mechanics (Forces and Motion)

 Study of how forces affect motion and structure

 Includes:
o Statics (objects at rest)
o Dynamics (objects in motion)

Example: Designing a plow requires understanding soil resistance and pulling force.

2. Strength of Materials

 Determines how materials react to forces

 Key concepts:
o Stress
o Strain
o Elasticity
o Yield strength

Example: Ensuring a tractor axle does not break under load.

3. Kinematics and Machine Motion

 Study of motion without considering forces

 Important in:
o Gears
o Linkages
o Belt drives

Example: Movement of harvesting machine components.

4. Energy and Power

 Machines convert energy into useful work

 Types:
o Mechanical energy
o Electrical energy
o Thermal energy

5. Material Selection

Factors to consider:

 Strength
 Durability
 Cost
 Availability
 Resistance to corrosion

Example: Stainless steel for parts exposed to moisture.

 6. Safety and Ergonomics

 Designing machines safe for operators

 Includes:
o Proper guarding
o Comfortable controls
o Reduced vibration and noise

7. Efficiency and Performance

 Machines should maximize output while minimizing input

 Reduce:
o Energy losses
o Friction
o Wear and tear

The Design Process:

 Identification of Need
1. Often constitute a highly
creative act
2. Existence of a potential
market for a product, device or
process
3. Re-engineering an existing
machine

 Definition of Problem

1. More specific than

identification of the need
2. All specifications for the
object to be designed must be
included
(input, output,
characteristics, dimensions,
limitations)
3. Enumeration of design
considerations

 Synthesis
1. Invention of the concept or concept design
2. Concepts or ideas can be generated from imagination or experiences
3. Research is very important at this stage

 Analysis and Optimization

1. Performed to assess whether the idea is satisfactory, and if satisfactory, how well it performed.
2. Concepts that do not survive analysis are revised, improved, or discarded
3. Construction of mathematical models to stimulate the real physical system
 4. Prototyping can be done to aid in analysis and optimization
5. Competing ideas are compared so that the path leading to the most competitive product can be chosen
6. Compromises between and among the desired criteria are made to arrive at the optimum product

 Evaluation
1. Final proof of a successful design
2. Performed to confirm if the design really satisfied the specifications

 Presentation
1. A selling job
2. Written, oral, graphical
*Design is a communication-intensive activity
*You may be the cleverest person in the world but no one will know that if you cannot communicate your
ideas clearly and concisely.

 Characteristics of the Design Process

The design process is:

1. Trans-disciplinary
e.g.,
1. Large machines or systems require the collaborative efforts of professionals of different backrounds.
2. To successfully design a rice mill, engineers should have backgrounds in mechanical engineering,
agriculture, food etc.

Design Problems are: ALMOST ALWAYS.

 They do not have a unique or correct solution.

 Some solutions will clearly be better than others

Design = “T A E”

Trial and Error

 Design is an iterative process

2. Decision-Making Process
1. Required in every step of the design process
2. Involves compromises among competing choices
3. Largely influenced by design considerations.
 Characteristics/parameters that influence the design of the element, or perhaps, the entire system:
Functionality - Processing -Reliability - Control
Strength/Stress - Weight - Friction - Thermal Properties
Distortion/Deflection/Stiffness - Life - Usability - Surface
Wear - Volume - Noise -Utility - Lubrication
Corrosion - Liability - Styling - Cost - Marketability
Safety - Shape - Size - Maintenance - Scrapping/Recycling

Design Criteria

1. Functional – the product must perform to fill its intended need and customer expectations.
2. Reliable – the product must perform its intended function satisfactorily or without failure at a given age.
3. Competitive – the product is a contender in its market
4. Safe – the product is not hazardous to the user, bystander, or surrounding properties
5. Usable – the product is “user-friendly” accommodating to human size, strength, posture, reach, force, power
and control.
6. Manufacturable – the product has been reduced to a “minimum” number of parts, suited for mass
production, with dimension, distortion and strength under control.
7. Marketable – the product can be bought, and service (repair) us available.
LO3. Safety Standards and Regulations

Introduction

Agriculture may seem simple, but it actually involves many complex and potentially dangerous activities.
Farmers and agricultural workers regularly use heavy machinery such as tractors, harvesters, and irrigation
systems. They also handle tools, chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers, and perform physically demanding
tasks. Because of this, the agricultural environment is considered one of the high-risk workplaces.

Agricultural engineering plays a vital role in designing safer machines and systems while ensuring compliance
with safety laws.

Importance of Safety in Agricultural Engineering

Safety is not just about avoiding accidents—it is about creating a system

where workers can perform their tasks confidently and
efficiently.

1. Prevents accidents and injuries

This means safety practices help avoid harmful incidents such as cuts,
burns, falls, or machine-related injuries. For example, using machine
guards or wearing gloves can protect workers from getting hurt while
operating equipment.

2. Protects workers and operators

Safety measures ensure that people working on farms are safe from
dangers like chemicals, heavy machines, and environmental risks. It
focuses on keeping both the physical and overall well-being of workers
protected while doing their jobs.

3. Improves efficiency and productivity

When workers feel safe and secure, they can focus better and work faster. They are less worried about getting
injured, which helps them complete tasks more effectively and produce better results in less time.

4. Reduces equipment damage

Following safety rules helps machines last longer. Proper use, regular maintenance, and careful handling prevent
breakdowns and costly repairs. This ensures that equipment remains in good working condition.

5. Ensures compliance with legal requirements

This means following the safety laws and regulations set by the government or organizations. By doing so, farms
and businesses avoid penalties, fines, or legal problems and maintain proper and lawful operations

Common Hazards in Agriculture

1. Mechanical Hazards
 These are dangers caused by machines, tools, and equipment used in farming. They usually involve moving or
sharp parts that can injure a person.

 Moving machine parts – Parts like gears, belts, and blades that are in motion can catch clothing or body
parts, causing serious injuries.
 Sharp tools – Tools like knives, cutters, and blades can cause cuts or wounds if not handled properly.
 Tractor rollovers – This happens when a tractor tips over, which can seriously injure or even trap the
operator.

2. Chemical Hazards

These hazards come from harmful substances used in agriculture, especially chemicals that can affect health.

 Pesticides – Chemicals used to kill pests can be toxic if inhaled, swallowed, or touched.
 Fertilizers – While helpful for crops, some fertilizers can irritate the skin or harm the body if misused.
 Fuel and oil exposure – Contact with fuel or oil can cause skin irritation, breathing problems, or fire
hazards.

3. Environmental Hazards

These are risks caused by the natural surroundings or working conditions in the farm.

 Extreme heat or rain – Too much heat can cause dehydration or heat stroke, while heavy rain can lead to
accidents or illness.
 Dust and noise – Dust can affect breathing, and loud machine noise can damage hearing over time.
 Slippery or uneven terrain – Wet, muddy, or rough ground can cause slips, trips, and falls.

4. Biological Hazards

These hazards come from living organisms that can cause harm or disease.

 Animal-related injuries – Animals may bite, kick, or attack, causing injuries to workers.
 Bacteria and fungi – These microorganisms can cause infections or diseases, especially if hygiene is poor.

Safety Standards in Agricultural Engineering

1. Machine Safety Standards - are rules and

guidelines used to make sure machines are
designed, operated, and maintained safely to
prevent accidents and injuries.

 Proper machine guarding

 Emergency stop mechanisms
 Regular inspection and maintenance

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - refers

to protective clothing or gear worn by a person to reduce the risk of injury or exposure to hazards while working.
 Examples:

 Gloves
 Safety boots
 Helmets
 Goggles
 Ear protection

3. Ergonomic Standards - are guidelines used to design tools,

machines, and work environments so they fit the physical needs and comfort of the user. The goal is to make
work easier, safer, and less tiring, while preventing injuries.

 Proper posture when operating machines

 Comfortable design of tools
 Reduced vibration and repetitive strain

4. Operational Safety - refers to the safe use and proper handling of machines, tools, and equipment during
operation to prevent accidents and injuries.

 Proper training before using equipment

 Following operating manuals
 Avoiding overloading machines

Regulations in Agricultural Engineering

1. Workplace Safety Laws - rules created by the government to ensure that all workers are provided with a safe,
healthy, and hazard-free working environment.

 Require safe working conditions

 Enforce use of PPE
 Provide training for workers

2. Equipment Regulations - are rules and standards that ensure machines, tools, and equipment are designed,
manufactured, and used safely. These regulations help prevent accidents and ensure that equipment functions
properly.

 Machines must meet safety design standards

 Regular inspection and certification

3. Environmental Regulations - rules and guidelines that ensure farming and agricultural activities do not harm
the environment. These laws control pollution, waste, and the use of natural resources to protect soil, water, air,
and ecosystems.

 Proper disposal of chemicals

 Protection of soil and water
 Control of emissions and waste

Safe Use of Agricultural Machinery

Before Operation:
 Inspect machine condition
 Check fuel, oil, and parts
 Wear appropriate PPE

During Operation:

 Stay alert and focused

 Avoid loose clothing
 Keep hands away from moving parts

After Operation:

 Turn off machine properly

 Clean and store equipment safely
 Report any defects

Emergency Preparedness

 First aid knowledge

 Emergency contact numbers
 Fire extinguishers available
 Clear evacuation plan
LO4. Tractor Design and Performance

Farm Power is an essential input in agriculture for timely field operations for increasing production and
productivity of land. Farm power is used for operating different types of machinery like tillage, planting,
plant protection, harvesting and threshing machinery and other stationary jobs like operating irrigation
equipment, threshers/ shellers / cleaners/ graders, etc.

SOURCES OF FARM POWER

There are different sources of farm power available in India which are classified as

1. Human power
2. Animal power
3. Mechanical power (Tractors + Power tillers + Oil engines)
4. Electrical power
5. Renewable energy (Biogas + Solar energy + Wind energy)

HUMAN POWER
Human power is the main source for operating small implements and tools at the farm. Stationary work
like chaff cutting, lifting, water, threshing, winnowing etc are al so done by manual labour. An average
man can develop maximum power of about 0.1 hp for doing farm work.

Paddy Nursery collection Nursery transport Paddy transplanting

weeding weeding Winnowing

ANIMAL POWER
Power developed by an average pair of bullocks about 1 hp for usual farm work. Bullocks are employed
for all types farm work in all seasons. Besides bullocks, other animals like camels, buffaloes, horses,
donkeys, mules and elephants are also used at some places. The average force a draft animal can exert is
nearly one-tenth of its body weight.

Persian wheel- water

Ploughing a land Ploughing a land Bullock cart
lifting

MECHANICAL POWER
Broadly speaking, mechanical power includes stationary oil engines, tractors, power tillers and self
propelled combines. Internal combustion engine is a good device for converting liquid fuel into useful
work (mechanical work). These engines are two types

1. Spark ignition engines (Petrol or Kerosene engine)

2. Compression ignition engines (Diesel engines)

Two stroke engine Two stroke Eighteen Four stroke Engine

cylinder two + Pump
engine (SI stroke engine
engine)

Thresher
types of tractor
 TRACTORS- TYPES AND UTILITIES

Tractor is a self propelled power unit having wheels or tracks for operating agricultural implements and
machines including trailers. Tractor engine is used as a prime mover for active tools and stationary farm
machinery through power-take off (pto) or belt pulley

wheel tractors
TRACTOR DEVELOPMENT
The present tractor is the result of gradual development of machine in different stages. History of tractor
development is given below.

1890- The word tractor appeared first on record in a patent issued on a tractor or traction engine invented by
George H. Harris of Chicago

1906- Successful gasoline tractor was introduced by Charles w. Hart and Charles H. Parr of Charles City,
Iowa

1908- First Winnipeg tractor trails were held

1911- First tractor demonstration was held at Omaha ( Nebraska) 1915-1919- Power take off was introduced

1920-1924- All purpose was developed

1936- 1937 – Diesel engine was used in tractor and pneumatic tires were introduced

1950-1960- Manufacturing of diesel tractors on extensive basis throughout the world was taken up

1960-1961 – Tractor manufacturing was started in India by first manufacturer M/s Eicher Good Earth

1962-1970 – Manufacturers like Tractor and Farm Equipment , Madras , Hindustan tractors at Baroda,
Escorts Tractors at Faridabad and International Harvester in Bombay started work during this period

1971- Escorts Tractor Ltd. Started producing Ford Tractors 1973- Manufacture of HMT Tractor was started

1974- Manufacture of Pitti and Kirlosker Tractor was started 1975- Harsha Tractors was established

1981- Auto tractors were started

1982- Universal Tractors was established

1983-2003- GTCL tractors, M.M Tractors, Sonalika, VST, L&T, Bajaj Tractors were produced

CLASSIFICATION OF TRACTORS
Tractors can be classified into three classes on the basis of structural design

1. Wheel tractor
2. crawler tractor
3. walking type tractor

Wheel tractor
Tractors having three or four pneumatic wheels are called wheel tractors. Four wheel tractors are popular
everywhere

Three wheel tractor Four wheel tractor

Crawler tractor
This type is also called Track type tractor or Chain type tractor. In such tractors , there is endless
chain or track in place of pneumatic wheels

Crawler tractors

Power tiller
Power tiller is a walking type tractor. This tractor is usually fitted with two wheels only. The direction
of travel and its controls for field operation is performed by the operator, walking behind the tractor
Power tillers

Classification of wheel tractors

On the basis of purpose, wheeled tractors are classified into three groups
a. General purpose tractor b. Row crop tractor
c. Special purpose tractor

a) General purpose tractor

It is used for major farm operations such as ploughing, sowing, harvesting and transporting works.
Such tractors have i) low ground clearance ii)Increased engine power iii) good adhesion and iv) wide
tyres

General purpose tractors

1. Row crop tractors
It is used for row crop cultivation. Such tractor is provided with replaceable driving wheels of
different tread widths. It has high ground clearance to save damage of crops. Wide wheel track can be
adjusted to suit inter row distance

Row crop tractors

a)Special purpose tractor

It is used for definite jobs like cotton fields, marshy lands, hill sides, garden etc. special designs are
there for special purpose tractor.
Eg. a) Tractor with winch unit b) multi drive tractor c) tractor for golf grounds etc.

Tractor with winch unit Multi drive tractors Tractor for golf grounds
SELECTION OF TRACTOR
Selection of tractors depend up on following factors

1. Land holding: Under a single cropping pattern, it is normally recommended to consider 1 hp

for every 2 hectare of land. In other words , one tractor 20-25 hp is suitable for 40 hectare farm
2. Cropping pattern: Generally 1.5 hectare/hp has been recommended where adequate irrigation facility are
available and more than one crop is taken. So a 30-35 hp tractor is suitable for 40 hectare of land.
3. Soil condition: A tractor with less wheel base , higher ground clearance and low overall
weight may work successfully in lighter soils buy will not be able to give sufficient depth in black
cotton soils
4. Climatic condition: For very hot zone and desert area, air cooled engines are preferred over water
cooled engines. Similarly for higher altitude air cooled engines are preferred because water cooled
engines are liable to be frozen at high altitudes
5. Repair facilities: It should be ensured that the tractor to be purchased has a dealer at near by place with all
the technical skills for repair and maintenance of the machine.
6. Running cost: Tractors with less specific fuel consumption should be preferred over others so that
the running cost may be less.
7. Initial cost and resale value: While keeping the resale value in mind , the initial cost should not be very
high, otherwise higher amount of interest have to be paid

Test report: Test report of tractors released from farm machinery testing stations should be consulted for
guidance

WHEEL TRACTOR
Components

1. I.C Engine
2. Clutch
3. Transmission gears
4. Differential unit
5. Final drive
6. Real wheel
7. Front wheels
8. Steering mechanism
9. Hydraulic control and hitch system
10. Brakes
11. Power-take-off unit
12. Tractor pulley
13. Draw bar and
14. Control panel

1. I.C Engine - Internal combustion of suitable horse power is used as a prime mover in a tractor. Engines
ranging from 8 to 200 hp are used in agricultural tractors. In India , four wheel tractors for agricultural
operations are fitted with 25-80 hp. Walking type tractors are fitted with 8-12 hp engines

2. Clutch
Clutch is a device, used to connect and disconnect the tractor engine from the transmission gears and drive
wheels. Clutch transmits power by means of friction between driving members and driven member.

3. Power transmission system of a tractor)

Transmission is a speed reducing mechanism, equipped with several gears. It may be called a sequence
of gears and shafts, through which the engine power is transmitted to the tractor wheels. The system
consists of various devices, which cause forward and backward movement of tractor to suit different field
conditions. The complete path of power from engine to wheel is called power train.
ILOCOS SUR COMMUNITY
Quirino Stadium, Zone V, Bantay, Ilocos ISCC Barangay Demo
Sur, Philippines 2727 Farm Campus
Tel. No. (077) 604-0285 Barangay Labnig, San
e-mail address: isccbantay@[Link] Juan, Ilocos Sur