Structural Analysis of Power Weeder Frame Using Finite Element Method (ANSYS)

Weed management in rice (Oryza sativa L.) food crop cultivation is a labour-intensive operation that significantly affects crop productivity and production cost. The use of walk-behind paddy weeders provides an effective mechanized alternative to reduce labour requirement and improve field efficiency. The performance and durability of such machines depend on the strength of the main frame of the machine, which is subjected to different types of loads during its operation. For the present study, the structural integrity of the main frame of a walk-behind dual-action paddy weeder was evaluated through Finite Element Analysis (FEA). For this purpose, a three-dimensional finite element model of the frame was developed in SolidWorks and analyzed through ANSYS Workbench software under static conditions. The frame was designed and developed using mild steel angle sections. The analysis was performed to evaluate the stress distribution, strain characteristics, and deformation of the frame. The analysis showed that the highest equivalent (von Mises) stress developed in the frame (28.514 MPa) was within limits compared to the yield strength of the material (175 MPa). At the same time, the highest deformation of the frame was found to be 0.10136 mm. The strain values developed in different sections of the frame were within limits, which confirmed that there would be no permanent deformation of the frame under such conditions. Overall, the analysis indicates that the frame design is structurally safe and suitable for field operation. The study also demonstrates the usefulness of FEA in evaluating and improving the design of agricultural machinery.