CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Oryza Sativa, also known as rice, is the staple food of more than half of the

world’s population. Around 4 billion people depend on rice as their source of food.

Asia, where about 90 % of rice is grown, has more than 200 million rice farms.

Rice-based farming is the main economic activity for hundreds of millions of people

in this continent and depends on it for livelihood.

Philippines is one of the major producers of rice in Asia. It is ranked as the

8th largest rice producer in the world and contributes about 2.8 percent of the global

supply. Rice production in the country has grown significantly through the past

decades. However, the demand for it becomes hardly comparable to the supply

due to the inevitable growth of population.

Rice farming is a complex activity that requires a series of processes to

achieve the finished product. The basic stages of cultivation include seed

selection, land preparation, planting, water management, harvesting and post-

harvest. One of the hardest and laborious parts of rice farming is the planting

process. It involves a huge amount of workforce to plant hectares of fields. As

years passed by, the declining number of farmers in the country affected the

production rate. In the Philippines, the average age of farmers is about 57 years

old (Asterio Saliot, 2013). The unrequited effort and investment for most rice farmers

is the reason why no young farmers tend to pursue this industry.

1
 Rich countries intensified the production rate of their crops through

agricultural mechanization. There are existing machineries today that help different

agricultural sectors. These are designed to ease the labor for the farmers, at the

same time hasten the process. In the Philippines, there are also machineries with

regards to rice farming. An example for it is a rice transplanter that transplants pre-

germinated seedlings into the field. The government supports local farmers by

issuing them some agricultural machines. Even though the efficiency of these has

been proven, there are still factors that the farmers need to consider such as, high

maintenance cost, portability, and the price of the machine itself. Most of our local

farmers cannot afford and would rather be doing the conventional way of farming

than investing in such expensive machineries.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In the continuous modernization of technology in the field of agriculture in

the Philippines, problems were yet encountered by the farmers. There are

government issued machineries that could help ease the labor in rice farming, but

these are very complex and sensitive, making it hard for the farmers to operate

and take additional effort and time in land preparation and cultivation before

transplanting.

Based on statistics, the average age of a Filipino farmer is around 57 to 59

in which someone’s physique is not suitable for mass planting. The declining

workforce due to the age of farmers and the disinterest of younger generation in

farming has resulted to the decrease of production. The younger generation are

discouraged to continue farming because of the arduous process of the traditional

2
way of transplanting which involves planting of pre-germinated seedlings by hand

one by one. It needs to be equidistant to each other, which makes it more difficult

for the farmers.

1.3 Conceptual Framework

The figure below shows the paradigm of the Design of the Manually

Operated Rice Transplanter. The study focuses on how to transplant rice in an

easy way compared to the conventional way.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

• Mechanical • Prototype
Assembly Design • Manually
• Tires Operated
• Claw • Fabrication Rice Planter
and
• Handle Assembly
• Tray
• Belt Drive • Testing and
Improvement
• Mat Type
Nursery
(Dapog)
• Software
• Solidworks
• Linkages

Fig. 1.1 The Conceptual Framework

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 The conceptual framework, as illustrated in Figure 1.1, shows the different

stages of the process involved in finishing the project study. It is composed of three

stages: input, process, and output.

The input stage consists of the mechanical assembly, the seedlings and the

Solid works. It shows the preliminary requirements in proceeding to the fabrication

of the project. It includes the parts of the machine, the seedlings to be transplanted

and to be sown and the software needed to make the design.

Prototype design, fabrication and assembly, and testing and improvement

are under the process stage. Finalization of the design was crucial in pushing

through the fabrication. After the fabrication of parts, testing and evaluation of the

prototype follows.

Finally, under the output stage, the prototype undergoes different tests and

evaluation, which will determine if the objectives mentioned are met.

1.4 Hypothesis

The rice transplanter will be an alternative way of transplanting rice

seedlings than manual process. Its assembly will be user-friendly and easy to

manipulate by the farmers thus having a faster way of planting than the traditional.

The machine will be very effective on a well-tilled land.

1.5 Objectives

The main objective of the study is to design and fabricate a manually

operated mat-type nursery rice transplanter.

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 The study specifically aims to design and fabricate a manually pulled rice

transplanter that is:

1. Capable of planting four rows of rice seedlings per revolution of the

mechanism

2. Suitable for mat-type rice nurseries which has dimensions of 20 cm by

40 cm that is capable of planting a 100-meter length of field

3. Capable of planting rice seedlings with a distance ranging from 20-30

centimeters apart

1.6 Scope and Delimitations

The study will be limited only to well-tilled farmlands, which will fit the design

of the wheel to be used in the prototype. The machine will only be limited to be

used in a 40 by 20 cm mat-type nursery to ensure the effectiveness and the

accuracy of the “dapog” released per cycle. The machine will only be capable of

doing a 4-row planting with an average distance of 30 cm with each other.

1.7 Significance of the Research

The study will be a significant endeavor in the improvement of transplanting

rice seedlings. The study will benefit the Department of Agriculture in the

municipality of Maragondon, Cavite through the mechanization of its agricultural

industry.

The study is designed to: alleviate the slow process of manual transplanting;

minimize the work force required to plant in the whole field; and eliminate the

discomfort felt by the farmers when doing forward bending during traditional

5
manual transplanting. The study can also be a source of valuable information for

future purposes.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Dapog – also known as mat nursery that is established in layer of soil mix, arranged

on a firm surface.

Direct seeding - refers to farming systems that fertilize and plant directly into

undisturbed soil in one field operation, or two separate operations of fertilizing and

planting.

Irrigation - a system of supplying the land with water by means of artificial canals,

ditches, etc. to promote the growth of food crops.

Milling machine- a big machine removing the husk and the bran layers of the rice,

and produce an edible, white rice kernel that is sufficiently milled and free of

impurities.

Rice cultivation - a complex activity that requires a series of processes to achieve

the finished product. The basic stages of cultivation include seed selection, land

preparation and crop establishment.

Transplanting - the most common and elaborative method of crop establishment

for rice in Asia. Rice seedlings grown in a nursery are pulled and transplanted into

puddled and leveled fields 15 to 40 days after seeding.

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 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE

Rice is one the world’s most important crops. It was first domesticated and

cultivated somewhere around 8000-10,000 years ago. Rice is a staple food for

majority of the Filipinos. This is the most extensively grown crop in the country,

planted in about 30 % of the agricultural area. Rice farming is the source of over

half of the household income in the country. In addition, most rice farmers and

merchants indirectly depend on rice for a living but do not have their own land. As

the population of the country increases, the demand for it also increases. The high

demand must be requited equally by the supply through intensifying the

production.

There are critical factors in producing a good quality of rice. These are: the

supply of water to the soil; the ability of the soil to retain water; nutrient contents of

the soil; season of planting; and lastly, good management and maintenance to the

crops. The supply of water can be from rain, river, reservoir or groundwater. A

good farmland contains a healthy soil. Most nutrients the soil contains comes from

alluvial deposits formed where major river emerge from hilly and mountainous

areas. Dissolved materials from hilly land soils are carried into rivers and streams.

When the rate of flow reduces as the river emerges from the hills, this

material will no longer be carried along in the river water. The rough sandy

materials will be settled initially, and finer silty and clayey material carried further

7
until the rate of flow becomes very slow, or the stream or river overflows and the

particles stay in the back of the swamp. The quality of the deposits in terms of

future crop production depends on the rocks and soils from which it is derived. The

rough sandy material is suitable for rice production because this kind of soil will not

retain water.

2.2 Rice farming Process

Rice farming is a complex process. It includes various steps starting from

land preparation, pre-germination of rice seedlings, maintenance and irrigation,

harvesting and post harvesting. There are also factors to consider such as the

season of planting and the type of fertilizer to be used.

Land preparation is one of the important parts of rice farming. A farmer must

ensure that the paddy field is ready for planting. This involves plowing and leveling.

It is very important to plow the land to loosen the soil for ease of planting.

Traditionally, animals such as carabao and horses do it, but in modern times, it is

drawn by tractors. Land leveling is also important. It includes water coverage. It

reduces the amount of water needed for preparing the land. It also improves crop

establishment, decreases problems in weed and helps to have a uniform crop

maturity.

After the land, preparation is the rice planting process. There are two ways

in planting rice, the broadcasting and transplanting. In broadcasting, the seeds are

directly spreaded to the field. This type requires less labor and tends to mature

8
faster than transplanting. In this process, the plants are not stressed unlike in

transplanting where the nurseries are being pulled from the soil. The disadvantage

of this is that there are more weed problems and the crops are not uniformly

distributed. Another way is the transplanting, which is very common among

farmers because the weeds can easily be determined and removed from the field.

In this process, the transplanted rice nurseries are planted in equal distances both

vertically and horizontally. This also has a higher chance of survival for the crops

because it is already grown. It can be manually planted or done by machineries.

Manual transplanting is the conventional way that most farmers done in

early times. The farmers plant the nurseries one by one with equal distances. The

standard used in modern transplanting is in 20 cm X 20 cm spacing. The rice

nurseries must be 15-21 days old grown seedlings. The mechanical method

requires less labor and less time. The transplanting is done by a machine with a

person who operates it. A person can plant a hectare of land per day using

machineries. Using machineries requires a well-prepared land for planting to

ensure its efficiency. There are existing automatic transplanters controlled by

engine and manually operated transplanters. Through these agricultural

machineries, rice farming would be easier and faster.

The next procedure after the planting process is the management and

maintenance of the crops. The farmer must ensure that the crops is getting enough

nutrients to manage soil fertility and so that, they would grow faster and normally.

Another part of crop management is the weed control. It is important to prevent the

9
losses in crop productivity and to ensure a good quality for the product. Another

important thing in management and maintenance is the pest control such as rats

and fungus. Also, other nonliving factors such as water, temperature and the soil.

The next step is the harvesting and post harvesting. The process of

gathering the crops that is matured enough for harvest. Harvesting process

includes reaping, handling, threshing, stacking, cleaning, and hauling. These can

be done individually in different machineries or by the use of a combine harvester

and do it simultaneously. This method is very important and must be done carefully

to ensure quality and that the farmers will maximize their production.

2.3 RESEARCH LITERATURE

The transplanting of rice is not an easy work from land preparation to

planting its seedling. Farmers who have been doing it for long time are already

used in dealing with rice farming. The rice transplanting can be categorized into

three groups: a. By hand, which is manually planted by the farmers one by one; b.

Using manually operated machines, with the work and force of farmer and

machine; c. Using mechanical operated machines, with the help of an engine.

The design and application of rice transplanter started in the year 1960’s.

These machines are specially designed to transplant rice seedling in the paddy.

The rice transplanter consists of tray, mostly flat plate, where the mat type rice

seedling is placed and set up. It has seedling tray shifter, just like the typewriter

carriage to shift up and move the tray. Also, a claw, which catches the rice seedling

10
from the tray and put it down to the ground, as if these seedlings were taken by

human fingers

Advantages of transplanting with machine rice transplanter are mostly

applied for the farmers. Using manually or mechanized transplanters ease the

work, labor and time of rice farming for the farmers. In addition, they can increase

the approximate area that they plant. However, some farmers are still with the

traditional specially the ones with the small-scale farm area. They consider by hand

planting more efficient than that done with the machine.

2.4 MANUALLY OPERATED TRANSPLANTERS

2.4.1 HAND POWERED MECHANICAL RICE PLANTER

Figure 2. 1 Hand Powered Rice Transplanter

The machine is a manually operated rice planter that is consisted of

simple parts such as the handle, the six forks that will serve as the one that

will get the rice seedlings, the tray that will hold the seedlings, and the skids

that will prevent the machine from sinking on a muddy field. The planting is

being done as the handle is pressed for it will control the forks to pick-up

11
the seedlings and plant them. As the handle was pressed, the seedling tray

will move sideways in order for the next sets of seedlings to be planted. The

distance of the seedlings in each row is 200 mm. Since the operator is

pulling the machine, the distance of each cycle depends on the distance

that the operator desires. The machine can cover 0.25 hectares per day.

Two operators are needed for it to work successfully. The other one is for

pulling the machine and the other one is for refilling the seedling trays. In

comparison to traditional way of planting, this machine can save time, effort,

and money.

2.4.2 HAND CRANKED RICE PLANTER

Figure 2.2 Hand Cranked Rice Transplanter

Another example of a manually operated rice transplanter is the hand

cranked rice planter, which is considered backward walking type. The

design of this transplanter is ideal for smaller farmer, since this is lightweight

and has smaller dimensions. This has two seedling racks ideal for

transplanting two rows at the same time. The process of transplanting with

12
this machine is one hand pulling the machine, while the other hand rotating

the crank as the farmer walks through the rice paddy. This machine

originated in China, already used by farmers with smaller land area for rice

planting.

2.4.3 MANUAL RICE TRANSPLANTER

Figure 2.3 Manual Rice Transplanter

One of the first designed planters is the manual rice transplanter.

Since it is manually, force should be applied for the machine to be in motion.

Planting rice is not an easy work for farmers and designing machine such

as manually operated rice transplanter is an ease for the farmers. Unlike

the hand cranked rice planter, this is designed to have ground wheels and

its spikes for easier travel, especially in muddy rice paddy. The ground

wheel is used to maintain the ideal distance of rice seedlings (vertically) 20

cm. For the movement of this transplanter, the power comes from the

ground wheel transmitted to the shaft. Connected is the larger sprocket

engaged with chain drive and with the smaller sprocket then simultaneously

13
 rotate together. As the ground wheel moves, power is transmitted to the

smaller sprocket, letting the claw transplant the seedling. The speed ratio

used for the driver to driven shaft is 3:1 and the distances of the seedling is

constant unless skid. For this machine, four bar linkage mechanism is used

to reach the desired oscillation of the angle. The farmers hand has controls

and power for the machine to move, from his hand ground wheel moves,

power transmitted through shaft and sprocket until reaching the claws

getting seedlings from the rack with downward motion until it reach the

ground.

2.5 MOTOR OPERATED TRANSPLANTERS

2.5.1 SELF PROPELLED TRANSPLANTER (RIDE ON)

Figure 2.4 Self Propelled 8-Row Rice Transplanter

A kind of rice transplanter wherein the operator would ride the

machine and adjust the system based on the need and then when started

it automatically transplanted rice seedlings from a mat type nursery. This

14
mechanical rice transplanter is powered by a 3kW diesel engine with an

overall weight of 305 kg and is operated by a single person riding the

machine. The weight is supported by a floating board to increase bouyancy

for it to float in the muddy land.Power is transmitted to the mechanism by

belt and pulley combination. The transplanter is capable of planting eight

(8) rows of rice seedlings simultaneously. It uses a mat type nursery with

an adjustable plant spacing ranging from 100mm to 230mm. It also have

an adjustable planting speed which can reach up to 0.54 mt/second. It has

rubber wheels capable on driving on hard terrain to enable it to be

transported on roads without damaging the mechanism. Power steering is

also used in the design to provide ease of control of the transplanter.

2.5.2 WALKING BEHIND RICE TRANSPLANTER

Figure 2.5 Walk Behind Rice Transplanter

A motorized rice transplanter designed to transplant rice seedlings

from a mat type nursery and is operated by one person from behind. The

machines overall weight is 180 kg and is supported by a floating platform

that helps it distribute its weight on the land to prevent it from sinking. It is

15
capable of planting 4 rows in a pass with a uniform distance of 300mm. It

utilizes an automatic float adjustment mechanism to let it adjust to varying

depths of land. Rubber lug wheels were used to provide traction in the

muddy land and give it a much longer lifespan. The engine and mechanism

is mounted in a way that prevents excessive vibrations that can cause

fatigue to the operator. The machine is designed to have a fast planting

speed ranging from 0.4-0.85 m/s.

16
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the project design, project development, its

operation, and testing procedure.

3.1 Project Development

The primary method used in this project study is through prototyping

wherein the machine will be fabricated and tested in the farmlands of

Maragondon, Cavite.

The project is designed carefully by the researchers so that the fabrication

of the machine will be feasible and more cost effective. It has various components

that is designed through theoretical computations and standard properties of

materials to ensure durability and efficiency of the machine. These components

are the following: frame, wheel, chains, sprockets, shafts, linkages, claw and tray.

The researchers undergo different stages in order to come up with a

project design. The figure below shows the project development flow diagram.

3.2 Problem and Investigation Analysis

Identification and analyzation of the problems paved the way for the project

to progress considerably. The problems identified are then analyzed to check its

viability and correctness. The problems identified during the investigation are as

follows:

17
 I. The design of the transplanter that can plant 4 rice seedlings

simultaneously with an equidistant planting space.

II. The suitable mat type nursery to be used in the machine.

3.3 Research and Data Gathering

The site chosen for the project is on Maragondon, Cavite where rice is a

major agricultural product in the municipality. Researches that focus mainly on rice

transplanters were investigated and analyzed to further increase the knowledge

on how to design transplanters effectively. Interviews on different local farmers and

ocular inspection on the farmlands were done to know the major factors affecting

rice planting and to further increase the foundation of the project.

3.4 Conceptualization

With the gathered information and thru extensive research several ideas for

the design of the machine were conceptualized by the proponents. The design of

the machine was also been discussed along with the possible materials and

procedure to be done considering all the different factors gathered.

3.5 Design Phase

The proposed manually operated rice transplanter is designed to transmit

power through chain drives and Joe Klann leg mechanism. A chain drive is a way

of transmitting mechanical power from one place to another. It is often used to

convey power to the wheels of a vehicle, particularly bicycles and motorcycles.

18
 19

Fig. 3.0 Flow Process of the Project

Joe Klann mechanism is a type of six-bar linkage designed to stimulate the gait of

a legged animal function as a wheel replacement. The linkage consists of the

frame, a crank, two grounded rockers, and two couplers all connected by pivot

joints. The wheel transmits rotary motion to the shaft connected to the linkages.

This shaft creates the rotary movement for the linkage.

The proposed design of the transplanter consists of four claws used for

transplanting mat- type nursery rice seedlings. It is operated by pulling the machine

with the wheel acting as its prime mover. Each rice seedling is planted with a gap

of 20 cm and a considerable depth. The machine also consists of components

such as skid and ballast that prevents it from submerging into the mud.

The design went through different iterations to match the requirements

needed to satisfy the objectives. The following figures are the proposed design of

the project:

In designing the machine, there are considerations in choosing the right

materials. It should be durable, rigid and lightweight to ensure the quality and

efficacy of the machine. The materials that we will be using are the following:

a) Mild Steel – Frame, Wheels, Tines, Handle, Shafts and linkages

b) High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) – Tray and Skid

20
Figure 3.1 Perspective View of the Initial Design of Rice Transplanter

Figure 3.2 Isometric View

21
 Figure 3.3 Front View

Figure 3.4 Right Side View

22
3.6 Construction and Fabrication

3.6.1 Parts Description

Frame- This part holds all the parts together. Designing the frame

requires knowledge about machine design to have the proper design

that can carry the weight of the whole machine. The frame is

constructed from mild steel rectangular bars for lesser weight and

provide the necessary stability and rigidity. Slots and bearings were

placed in the frame to accommodate the mechanism.

Claw Assembly -This part is responsible for the planting of the rice

seedlings. It is composed of 3 parts namely the claw holder, claw and

the separator. The claw grips the seedlings from the “dapog”. The

claw designed to work with the velocity of the whole mechanism to

cut through the “dapog”. It is cut from a mild steel plate and grinded

to its specified dimensions.

Rack System- Holds all the “dapog” to be fed unto the machine. It is

constructed from sheet metal and rectangular bars.

Wheel- The main driver of the machine. It provides power thru its

rotation which is then transmitted by a chain. The wheel is designed

in a way that it would provide traction in muddy conditions and would

produce 3 full cycles per rotation. 3 spokes were used in this design

to provide sufficient rigidity with lesser materials. Metal tubing are

23
 bent to provide the initial shape the wheel then the spokes are

welded in place lastly the spikes are placed around the wheel.

Mechanism- Part wherein the movement of the claw is produced. It

is composed of 5 links made up of mild steel plates. This is where

the rice thine is attached and follows the designed path of travel.

3.6.2 Material Selection

The following Processes were involved during the fabrication

of the project:

I. Conceptualizing and Designing of final output of the

Project

II. Proper selection of machine shop to fabricate the

project

III. Selection of materials

A. For the frame

Rectangular Bar, Galvanized Sheet Metal, Pillow

Block, Welding Rod, Mild steel pipe

B. For the mechanism

Mild Steel Plate, Round Bar

C. For the wheel

Pipe, Mild Steel Plate, GI Pipe

D. For the claw assembly

Mild Steel Plate, Rectangular Bar, Pipe

24
 E. For the rack system

Rectangular Bar, Flat Bar, Galvanized Sheet Metal

IV. Assembly of Parts

V. Initial testing, adjustments and alterations.

VI. Finishing and Painting

3.6.3 Initial Assembly Procedure

The following measures are the initial procedures on the

fabrication of the project;

1. Research, Conceptualization, and Designing

2. Preparation of the working drawing for the project

3. Fabrication of the Parts

A. For the rectangular bars

Rectangular bars are measured and cut

according to specification. The cut parts are

then partially connected by welding to test fit the

cut parts to prevent errors. After the fit is verified

the joints are now then welded securely.

B. For the mild steel plates

Mild steel plates are marked with the

specified dimensions of the links. After marks

have been checked and verified the plates are

25
 cut accordingly. Holes are then drilled in the

ends of the links for the pins.

C. For the Sheet Metal

The sheet metal is measured then

marked with the corresponding dimensions

needed for the base plate and the tray. After

marking it is then cut and fold to specs.

3.6.4 Construction and Assembly of the Machine

The following are the procedures taken in the fabrication and final

assembly of the machine;

A. Claw Assembly- the cut claws are then welded to a

rectangular bar with a 20cm distance from center to center.

A Rectangular bar is used to be the base of the separator

and is aligned with the claw slots.

B. Rack System- Welded square bars are used to form

the main frame of the rack system. A ratchet is attached to

the back of the system by welding and is connected to the

chain assembly. The end of the ratchet is bolted to a flat

bar where it is connected to a spring-loaded pipe

assembly.

26
 1.The mechanism is attached to the frame by pillow block

bearings and pins.

2.Claw assembly is attached to the mechanism by bolts

and is aligned.

3. Rack system is positioned in the frame wherein it is

aligned with the claw assembly.

4.The bearings for the wheel shaft is attached by welding

and the wheels are bolted to the ends of the shafts.

5.Sprockets are now then connected by chains.

After these procedures the rice transplanter is now ready for testing.

3.7 Operation and Product Testing

The following test procedures are conducted in order to validate the projects

capability to transplant rice seedlings from a mat type nursery.

3.7.1 Production Testing

Testing procedures are carefully evaluated by the proponents in

order to achieve a reliable result. The following steps are conducted in

testing:

i. Land preparation

ii. Dapog preparation (cutting to size)

iii. Transplanting of rice seedlings

27
 iv. Gathering of data by measurements

3.7.2 Product Testing

The following procedures are done to gather data. The test is

repeated 2 times in order to get the average results.

a.) Ocular checking

An ocular check is done by the proponents. In

this procedure, visual descriptions are made such as

the transplanting quality(deepness) and number of

planted rice seedlings.

b.) Measuring of distance

Measurements were taken carefully in order to

achieve a precise result. Transplanting distance,

specifically the distance by rows, is measured and then

compared to the farmer’s specifications.

c.) Transplanting speed

The test is timed to get the average time per

plant to be compared to the traditional way of planting.

28
 Figure 3.5 Mat- Type Nursery Rice (“Dapog”) Sample

Figure 3.6 Mat Type Nursery Rice loaded unto the machine

29
Figure 3.7 Transplanted Mat Type Nursery Rice

30
 Chapter 4

Results and Discussion

This project includes the technical description of the project, organization

and structure, project limitations, capabilities, and the result of the evaluation

administered.

4.1 Development of the project

This research was done by the researchers methodically to ensure a

favorable outcome. This section includes the systematic procedure starting from

the background research and data gathering, followed by the specification, design

and computations, materials selection, costing, fabrication and testing.

The idea of this project was created through a bull session of the

researchers with the farmers of the Municipality of Maragondon, Cavite. The

Department of Agriculture of the said municipality added supportive discussions to

strengthen the farmers’ statements.

After gathering all the necessary information needed for this project, the

researchers started to design the transplanter. It includes the computation of

strength of materials and the design of mechanism. Through SOLIDWORKS, a

solid modeling computer-aided design and computer-aided engineering computer

program, all the parts are assembled and created the product.

The next step after finishing the design is the material selection. The

researchers decided to use mild steel and galvanized iron considering their

31
standard properties. The fabrication started right after selecting the right materials

to be used.

The machine was tested several times in a paddy field and the researchers

tabulated the data gathered.

4.2 Research and Design

The researchers conducted a thorough research in order to conceptualize

the configuration of the machine. Creating the most efficient design for the

machine entailed brainstorming and sharing of ideas based on the different

related literature that have been read.

The design is a motorless machine that depends on its wheels to produce

power. The wheel shaft transmits rotary motion through chain drives in the shaft,

which is connected, to the linkages. A cycle will plant four rice nurseries at the

same time. The vertical distances were designed to be 20 mm apart.

4.3 Design Phase and Results

The initial conceptualized design was presented to a panel of professors

and the researchers’ adviser. After an investigative brainstorming and deliberation,

the professors decided to pursue the project with this initial design.

32
 Figure 4.1 Initial Design of the Manually Operated Mat-type
Nursery Rice Transplanter

The first alteration design was made following the recommendations of the

researchers’ adviser. The researchers’ alterations to the design are the following:

frame, the position of the handle, the size and design of the wheel.

The initial design doesn’t have a frame. It is connected to the skid directly

making the design weak in foundation. The position of the handle was moved to

the tip of the skid to maximize the movement for the mechanism. The size of the

wheel was doubled, and the design was changed following the standard wheel

used in fabricating rice transplanters.

Figure 4.2 First Alteration Design of the Manually Operated Mat-type

Nursery Rice Transplanter

33
 Figure 4.3 Final Design of the Manually Operated Mat-type
Nursery Rice Transplanter

The final design was created integrating the adviser and fabricator’s

recommendation. Through calibration and testing, the researchers decided to

modify the frame and the orientation of the sprockets. After all the design

considerations, the researchers come up with the final working design for material

selection.

4.4 Material Selection, Function and Fabrication

The selection of the materials is one of the most critical part of the research.

The researchers listed all possible materials applicable to the machine considering

weight, cost, durability, properties and its availability in the market

4.4.1 Mechanism (Linkages)

For the linkages, the researchers used steel plate. The plates are

cutter based on the size given by the Linkage Mechanism Designer for more

34
optimized result. The linkages are connected to the pins. The linkage is

connected to a rotary shaft that initiates one cycle for the mechanism.

4.4.2 Frame

For the frame, the researchers considered using square bar

welded to every joint to provide strong foundation to the mechanism.

In addition, the frame has slots that fit the components needed to be

attached. The frame was designed to hold all the shafts and it is

directly connected to the skid. Part of the frame is the skid made of

stainless-steel sheet that acts as floater and cover of the lower base

of the machine.

4.4.3 Claw Assembly

For the claw assembly, the researchers decided to use mild

steel. The claw is one of the most stressed part of the machine. The

claw holder is made of square bar welded together and has slots to

fit the claws. The claws are joint flat bar, circular rod and square bar.

The claws are made to be tapered to hold the seedlings transplanted

before hitting the land. These were designed to be adjusted and dis

engaged depending on the situation of the machine in planting the

seedlings.

4.4.4 Rack System

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 The Rack is responsible for holding and moving the tray per

cycle of planting. It is mainly made of angle bars welded together. Its

design forms an angle of 500 making the tray efficient for handling

the mat-type nursery. In the mid part, there are sprockets connected

by chains responsible for the movement of tray leftward or rightward.

The sprockets’ rotation depends on a ratchet connected by rods.

4.4.5 Wheel

For the wheel, the researchers considered using mild steel,

bended and machined to create a circular form. Its design is based

on standard wheels commonly used in paddy areas. It consists of

hub and spokes to prevent the wheel from being stuck in the paddy

field. Its outer part has spikes used to plow the land while

transplanting.

4.5 Experimentation and Data Gathering

After the fabrication phase, the Manually Operated Transpanter was initially

tested. All moving and non-moving parts were tested before the assembly to

ensure the normal function of the parts. The Manually-Operated Transplater was

run continuously at maximum capacity. This is done to test if all mechanism were

functioning as designed and expected. After initial trials and adjustments, patching

up were made to address all malfunctioning parts, then machine was conditioned

for the next testing.

36
 Getting ready for the final testing and data gathering, the team proceeded

and prepared the land and materials for the rice transplanting, the mat type rice

seedling (dapog) of 40 cm by 20 cm and the land prep area of 5 m by 10 m. After

then, the final testing was done. The machine was run and started to transplant

the seedlings as expected. Numerous trials were made for the comparison and

conclusion of the result.

The final testing output and data of the Manually Operated Transplanter

was then gathered and recorded for the data analysis.

4.6 Evaluation of Result of Transplanting

The data gathered are based on the final testing of the machine. The

researchers run two trials with each, 13 rows planted vertically. The Tables below

show the result of the efficiency of the machine in transplanting the seedlings.

The vertical distances and number of planted seedlings are then recorded

and analyzed. In the first trial, the average distance is around 29.83 cm and the

percentage error was computed to be 19.33 %. The efficiency of the machine is

around 80.76 %.

In the second trial, the average distance is around 25.85 cm and the

percentage error was computed to be 3.38 %. The efficiency of the machine is

around 88.46 %.

37
 Row 1 2 3 4
1 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
2 ✔ ✔ ✔
RESULTS:
3 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
4 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 15 Rows (Vertically)
5 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 7 Rows - 4
6 ✔ ✔ ✔ Seedlings
7 ✔ ✔
4 Rows - 3
8 ✔ ✔ ✔ Seedlings
9 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
10 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 1 Row - 2 Seedlings
11 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
12 ✔ ✔ ✔
13

Table 4.6.1 Trial 1

35
32 32 33 30 31 30
33
Distance of the Seedling (Vertically) in cm

30 29
28 27 28 27 Vertical Distances
25
Average Distance
20 Acceptable Higher Value
Acceptable Lower Value
15

10

0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
No. of Row (Vertically)

Figure 4.4 Trial 1 Distance by Rows

38
 Row 1 2 3 4
1 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
2 ✔ ✔ ✔
RESULTS:
3 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
4 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 15 Rows (Vertically)
5 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
9 Rows - 4 Seedlings
6 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
7 ✔ ✔ ✔ 3 Rows - 3 Seedlings
8 ✔ ✔ ✔
1 Row - 1 Seedling
9 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
10 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
11 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
12 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
13 ✔

Table 4.6.2 Trial 2

35
33 32 32
29 30
Distance of the Seedling (Vertically) in cm

30
27
26 27 Vertical Distances
25
25 26 Average Distance
23
20 Acceptable Higher Value
Acceptable Lower Value
15

10

0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
No. of Row (Vertically)

Figure 4.5 Trial 2 Distance by Rows

39
4.7 Capacity of the Rice Transplanter

TRIAL TIME ROWS SEEDLINGS

PLANTED

1 16 seconds 13 4 Seedlings – 7 Rows

3 Seedlings – 4 Rows

2 Seedlings– 2 Rows

1 Seedling – 2 Rows

0 Seedling– 0 Rows

2 11 seconds 13 4 Seedlings– 9 Rows

3 Seedlings – 3 Rows

0 Seedlings– 0 Rows

1 Seedling– 1 Rows

0 Seedling – 0 Rows

Table 4.7.1 Capacity of the Transplanter

This part of the data analysis focuses on the capacity of the transplanter to

transplant mat type rice nursery per second of planting. In the first trial, the total

number of seedlings transplanted in thirteen rows is 46. The length of time

consumed in completing thirteen rows is 16 seconds. Therefore, the capacity of

the transplanter is approximately three seedlings per second. In the second trial,

the total number of seedlings transplanted in thirteen rows is 46. The length of

time consumed in completing thirteen rows is 11 seconds. Therefore, the

capacity of the transplanter is approximately four seedlings per second.

40
 As the data projects, there are factors that are considered in determining

the outcome of data and those are the accuracy of the measuring tool, the stability

of the seedling transplanted and distribution of the seedling transplanted in every

row.

41
 Chapter 5

Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations

5.1 Summary

The theme of the project study of this school year is all about agriculture.

The students were instructed to think of a project study that will surely help a

community when it comes to their problems with anything that involves agriculture.

The researchers coordinated with the Department of Agriculture in

Maragondon, Cavite and came up with a rice transplanter specifically for mat-type

rice seedlings that will be an alternative for their current motorized rice

transplanters that were not in use due to its sensitivity. The researchers’ main

focus in the duration of the study was to produce the prototype based on the

previous and supporting researches and also the availability of the materials; to

fabricate a mechanism that was based on the proposed design and specifications;

to have several tests of the machine; and to evaluate the performance of the

project study based on the overall results of the tests, functionality, cost and

operator’s safety.

At the time of testing, the machine performed what it is designed to do but

not perfectly. The desired distance of the researchers was not met due to failure

in computation of the mechanism. But the researchers modified the machine to

meet the ideal distance by changing the number of teeth of two of the sprockets

used thus changing the speed ratio of the mechanism. After the modification, the

objective was mostly met. The prototype performed well in planting four seedlings

42
but it did not plant four seedlings all throughout. It planted three seedlings, two

seedlings, and sometimes one seedling per cycle. The operation of the machine

is done by pulling it by one or two persons. Due to its weight, two persons pulled

the prototype in the field. The researchers also found out that the weight of the

prototype was a big factor with the performance of the machine.

Modifications were performed all throughout the study after every test to

increase its efficiency. The result may not be as promising as expected, but it gives

the farmers and the Department of Agriculture of Maragondon an alternative to

their traditional way of planting. It also marks another opportunity for professionals

who conduct their own researches based on their field of expertise.

5.2 Conclusions

The following conclusions were based on the actual results of the several

tests done by the researchers during the testing of the prototype:

1. The machine was able to plant four seedlings per revolution

of the mechanism and has an average efficiency of 84.61%.

2. The 20 cm by 40 cm mat-type rice nurseries was enough to

plant a 100-meter length field.

3. The machine was able to plant rice seedlings with vertical

distances ranging 25-35 cm apart, and the average percentage error

is about 11.36%.

43
 From the computations, the average planting efficiency of the machine

was 84.61%. The researchers came up with that result by averaging the planting

capacity of the machine from the several tests conducted; the number of

transplanted seedlings during the test over the total number of seedlings that must

have planted. Also from the tests, four seedlings were transplanted in majority. The

researchers tested the machine on a 15 m long field using a 20 cm by 20 cm mat-

type rice seedlings. With that, the researchers were able to conduct three

consecutive testings but there were still parts of the rice seedlings left. Therefore,

it was safe to say that a 20 cm by 40 cm mat-type rice seedling was enough to

plant a 100 m length field. The researchers measured the distances from plant to

plant and computed the average distance of each. After averaging, it was

compared with the ideal distance, which is 25-30 cm and came up with the result

of 11.36% error.

5.3 Recommendations

These recommendations were the researchers’ ideas for the improvement

of the prototype:

1. Use lighter materials.

2. Design a bigger diameter of wheels to improve movement.

3. Add roller to the trays to improve the feeding of the seedlings.

4. Modify the handle so that it can be towed.

5. Improve wheel design to minimize the accumulation of the mud.

6. Improve claw design for varieties of rice seedlings.

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7. Replaceable wheel for ease of transport.

8. Add more claws to increase efficiency.

9. Improve the design of the mechanism to lessen the distance of the

seedlings and meet the acceptable distance which is 20 centimeters.

45