Design and construction of a mini paddy harvester for small scale farmers.

Abstract

This final project report comprises of four chapters; Chapter one presents background to worldwide rice production and consumption with specific emphasis on Uganda's progress in rice production and value addition activities in the rice value chain. The problem considered in this study is presented in the problem statement and the justification, objectives and scope of the study are also presented. Chapter two discusses the details of the various aspects involved in rice production with emphasis on the aspect of harvesting; different harvesting techniques and the operation of the existing rice harvesters are presented. In relation to the objectives of this study, the methods and procedures that were followed in order to come up with the design of a mini paddy harvester the procedures used to fabricate, test the performance and evaluation of the prototype were also handled in chapter three. Chapter four provides the results and discussions obtained from the design and development of a mini paddy harvester. Chapter five give details about the conclusions, recommendations and challenges derived from the design and construction of a mini paddy harvester. Appendices are attached at the end of this document.