Precision seed depth sensing and control: A novel electronic measurement and control system for wheat dual-axis rotary tiller seeders

This study addresses the problem of inconsistent and unstable sowing depth in conventional wheat planters. A novel measurement and control strategy based on mulch quantity regulation is proposed for a dual-axis rotary planter. A mathematical model of sowing depth is established and a corresponding adjustment unit is designed. An adaptive fuzzy PID controller is developed and compared with a conventional PID controller. The adaptive fuzzy PID controller achieves a rise time of 0.19 s and a stabilization time of 0.26 s. Compared with the conventional PID controller, these values represent reductions of approximately 26.2% and 14.9%, respectively. Simulation results confirm the controller's effectiveness and adaptability. The system is then implemented on a dual-axis rotary-tillage wheat planter and validated through field experiments. The proposed method enables precise and stable control of sowing depth, improving both the quality and consistency of wheat planting operations.