# Design and experiment of a novel intelligent device suitable for automation vegetable plug seedling

**Authors:** Qiu Haifei, Nie Zhike, Chen Xiandong, Lv Bo, Zhang Yifan, Li Feiyang, Zhang Jiajun

PMC · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0336844 · 2025-11-14

## TL;DR

This paper presents an automated device for vegetable plug seedling that reduces manual labor and increases efficiency through precision seeding and real-time monitoring.

## Contribution

The novel device integrates synchronized motion control and real-time monitoring for high-efficiency plug seedling.

## Key findings

- The device achieves a 98% qualification rate for plug sowing using 'one hole one seed' technology.
- Automated processes like sowing and watering are integrated to reduce labor and costs.
- Real-time monitoring via WiFi and cloud provides insights for intelligent seedling machinery.

## Abstract

To tackle the challenges of high manual labor intensity and low efficiency in traditional vegetable plug seedling processes, this study developed an automated mechanical device through innovative design, dynamic simulation, single-chip development, and prototype testing. The device integrates precision seeding technology based on the synchronized motion control of ball screws and crank sliders, which improves the qualification rate of plug sowing to 98% by “one hole one seed” sowing, and also minimizes seed waste and reduces planting costs. Automated processes like hole pressing, sowing, soil covering, fertilizing, and watering are achieved through innovative design and functional integration, ensuring efficient and high-quality plug seedling production. Additionally, real-time monitoring of vegetable cultivation parameters, including seed type, quantity, planting depth, and environmental temperature and humidity, is facilitated by wireless WiFi, intelligent screens, and Alibaba Cloud, offering valuable technical insights for the digital and intelligent advancement of new vegetable plug seedling machinery.

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** stroke (MESH:D020521)
- **Chemicals:** PLA (MESH:C033616), iron (MESH:D007501), aluminum (MESH:D000535), Water (MESH:D014867)

## Figures

33 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12617938/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12617938