Abstract

Conventional no-till seeding systems based on continuous disc or hoe-type furrow openers require high draft forces and tractor power, increasing fuel consumption, soil compaction, and operating costs. This study presents the design and mechanical analysis of a punch-based seeding mechanism that concentrates soil disturbance into short, predominantly vertical punching cycles, aiming to reduce drawbar force and power demand. The proposed system employed a slider–crank mechanism to actuate a penetrating rod for localized seed deposition. Soil mechanical characterization was performed through experimental direct shear tests, yielding values of shear strength up to 134 kPa, which were used to estimate penetration resistance forces based on Terzaghi’s theory. Kinematic and dynamic analyses were conducted to determine penetrating rod displacement, velocity, acceleration, and crank torque and power requirements for different crops. Results showed that the maximum crankshaft torque reached 12 Nm, with a peak power demand of approximately 2.65 kW under the most severe operating condition (soybean). The resulting vertical and horizontal soil reaction forces were 1047.48 N and 466.89 N, respectively, indicating a possible reduction in drawbar effort. Structural integrity was verified through finite element analysis, which showed maximum von Mises stresses around 30 MPa, safety factors above 2.8, and an infinite fatigue life based on the Soderberg criterion. The results demonstrated that the punch-based mechanism is structurally feasible and capable of significantly reducing required tractor power and draft force, making it a promising alternative for energy-efficient and precision-oriented no-till seeding systems.