Modification of dryland weeder to increase suitability and the ease of operation

Abstract

Dry land weeder is used to remove weed between two rows in push pull mode, work being performed in the standing posture. Considering the demand to increase the suitability and the ease of operation, the dryland weeder was modified on the basis of anthropometric data of male users. The handle height, length, grip diameter etc. were modified based on the relevant anthropometric dimensions. Ergonomic evaluation of developed dryland weeder was carried out with six male subjects. The EER was decreased by 14.5 per cent. The work pulse was also decreased. The field capacity and weeding efficiency were increased by 30 % and 6%, respectively. The overall discomfort rate was also decreased by 33.8 per cent.