Design and construction of a manually operated sorghum planter.

Abstract

The proposed study covers the design and construction of a sorghum planter, testing of the machine that was designed and the economic evaluation of the prototype. The varieties that were considered in this study were Epuripur and Serena Chapter one presents the background the study which highlights the problem of the study and the importance of solving the problem through the design and construction of a manually operated sorghum planter which solved exposure of seeds to birds and harsh climate by planting seeds at a considerate depth. It deposits seeds at recommended inter and intra row Spacing which solves the problem of poor spacing thus increasing production. Chapter one also presents the objectives and scope of the study as well as the likely benefits of the study to the smallholder farmers and the country at large. An intensive literature review relating to sorghum varieties. planting methods plant population and spacing. The advantages and disadvantages of the existing designs of sorghum planters are also clearly outlined in this chapter. The methods that were. used to undertake the study are presented in the methodology of chapter three. The methodology includes the procedures for design of the different components of a sorghum planter, construction of the prototype or the designed multi-grain cleaner, testing of the prototype and economic evaluation of the prototype so as to ascertain its affordability by the smallholder farmers. The results that were got in the study are presented in the results and discussions of chapter four. The results and discussions include the results for the design of the different components of a sorghum planter, construction. of the prototype, testing of the prototype and economic evaluation of the prototype so as to ascertain its affordability by the smallholder farmers. Chapter five includes the recommendations and the conclusion of the designed planter.