Browsing by Author "Mudoola Cornerious, Kikyo hellen"

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    Design and Fabrication of an engine Powered Weeder Sprayer Machine
    (2026) Mudoola Cornerious, Kikyo hellen
    Weeds are a major constraint to crop productivity, contributing to an estimated 25–26% yield losses in major crops annually and billions in financial losses worldwide. Traditional weed control methods, such as manual removal and conventional mechanical devices, often result in high labor costs, significant drudgery, and inconsistent efficacy, particularly in smallholder farming contexts. Engine-powered weeding machines have demonstrated substantially improved weeding efficiency up to 90% compared to manual methods, which typically achieve 65–82% efficiency. This project focused on the design and fabrication of an engine-powered weeder-sprayer machine capable of mechanically removing weeds in crop inter-rows while simultaneously spraying herbicides within intra-row. The machine integrates dual implements, that is, the fixed tines for physical weed removal and cutting and a targeted spraying system for precise selective herbicide application. Performance benchmarks show that such machines can deliver a field efficiency of approximately 86%, maintain plant damage below 4%, and reduce weeding costs by over 60% when compared to traditional practices. By leveraging mechanical automation and selective herbicide application, the proposed solution aims to address labor shortages and improve both the quality and quantity of crop production. The system is designed to be accessible, economical, and environmentally conscious, promising substantial benefits for small and medium-sized farms and aligning with the demand for sustainable agriculture.