DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF A STEAM-BASED WEEDING MODULE FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

Mihai Dan ȘERDEAN, Florina Maria ȘERDEAN, Silviu-Dan MÂNDRU

Abstract


Weed control is a critical aspect of modern agriculture, requiring sustainable and efficient solutions to minimize environmental impact while maintaining crop productivity. This paper presents the design and analysis of a steam-based weeding module with cover to be attached to an autonomous mobile platform, which delivers high-temperature steam at the soil surface to eliminate unwanted vegetation without the use of chemical herbicides. The module's 3D model and structural components are detailed, followed by a Finite Element Method (FEM) stress analysis to evaluate its mechanical reliability under operational conditions. The results confirm that the proposed system is robust and capable of withstanding maximum pressure stresses, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional weed control methods.


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