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19 pages, 7716 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of a Double Bottom Trawl Set to Assess the Selectivity of Innovative Codends in Baltic Cod (Gadus morhua) Fishing

by Paweł Zalewski, Piotr Nowakowski, Krzysztof Berest, Grzegorz Krzemień, Jarosław Artyszuk, Artur Żuliński and Marta Kasprowicz

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(3), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14031131 - 29 Jan 2024

Viewed by 808

Abstract

The overall objective of the study presented in this paper was to evaluate the selectivity properties of three innovative codends in Baltic cod fishing: (1) an ultracross codend of 120 mm square mesh, (2) an ultracross codend with additional devices reducing the speed [...] Read more.

The overall objective of the study presented in this paper was to evaluate the selectivity properties of three innovative codends in Baltic cod fishing: (1) an ultracross codend of 120 mm square mesh, (2) an ultracross codend with additional devices reducing the speed of water flow—one tarpaulin diffuser and one net confusor of 120 mm mesh, and (3) an ultracross codend with two tarpaulin diffusers and two net confusors of 120 mm mesh. These codends were firstly tested at sea by single trawls and compared to T90 and herring codend trawls, allowing assessment of caught fish mass and dimensions. Additionally, a special divided small-mesh coat for the innovative codends enabled determination of the amount as well as the length and mass of cod escaping from the codend both while the trawling gear was towed and while it was hauled. Further validation of codend selectivity was carried out by a double (twin) bottom trawl set deployed from one cutter in various variants of innovative codends compared to standard ones. The results of the study indicate that the use of an innovative ultracross codend and innovative devices reducing the water flow speed (tarpaulin diffusers and 120 mm net confusors) significantly reduces the number of undersized cod (<35 cm), even down to 1.3%, in the haul and contributes to a reduction in invisible mortal discard. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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17 pages, 1062 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Evaluation of Cultivation Performance for Maize Based on Group Decision Method of Data Envelopment Analysis Model

by Wei Huang, Han Li, Kaifeng Chen, Xiaohua Teng, Yumeng Cui, Helong Yu, Chunguang Bi, Meng Huang and You Tang

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(1), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13010521 - 30 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1271

Abstract

Maize cultivation performance, including the efficiency of the input and output of maize, which reflect the allocation and utilization of resources in the process of maize cultivation, is crucial for evaluating and improving maize cultivation. This paper adopts the method of quadratic regression [...] Read more.

Maize cultivation performance, including the efficiency of the input and output of maize, which reflect the allocation and utilization of resources in the process of maize cultivation, is crucial for evaluating and improving maize cultivation. This paper adopts the method of quadratic regression orthogonal rotation combination experimental design to explore the effects of four main cultivation measures (planting density, nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer) on maize yield at five levels (−2, −1, 0, 1; 2). The CCR (A. Charnes, W. Cooper and E. Rhodes) model, which is the basic model of data envelopment analysis (DEA), was used to evaluate the 36 groups of cultivation measures. The results show that 9 groups are CCR-effective cultivation measures, but the performance of these cultivation measures cannot be further evaluated. To improve the evaluation of cultivation performance, a novel method termed as the group decision method of DEA (GDM-DEA) is proposed to detect the improvement of evaluation performance and is tested using the measurements of maize cultivation. The results suggest that the GDM-DEA method can classify and sort the performance of all the cultivation measures, which is more sensitive and accurate than the CCR method. For the effective cultivation measures that meet the requirements of GDM-DEA, the optimal cultivation measures could be determined according to the ranking of yield. This method determined the most effective cultivation measure. Further independent validation showed that the final optimal cultivation measures fall in the range of the expected cultivation measures. The GDM-DEA model is capable of more effectively evaluating cultivation performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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Review

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20 pages, 8500 KiB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress on the Development of the Planter Unit for Furrowing Control and the Depth Measurement Technology

by Hang Li, Jin He, Chao Wang, Wenchao Yang, Han Lin, Quanyu Wang, Hanyu Yang and Lu Tan

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(21), 11884; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132111884 - 30 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1090

Abstract

The article briefly describes the importance of furrowing depth stability for seed germination and growth under precision seeding conditions. By analyzing the application status of furrowing depth control technology of the planter globally, the research method, technical characteristics, and development of furrowing depth [...] Read more.

The article briefly describes the importance of furrowing depth stability for seed germination and growth under precision seeding conditions. By analyzing the application status of furrowing depth control technology of the planter globally, the research method, technical characteristics, and development of furrowing depth stability control technology are reviewed from three key aspects, namely, profiling adjustment device, furrowing depth detection technology, and automatic control system. In this paper, (1) two types of profiling adjustments, active and passive, are described based on the difference in the downforce adjustment method; (2) three furrowing depth detection methods are described based on different sensors; (3) and three ways of regulating the furrowing depth system are summarized based on the different ways of evaluating the stability of furrowing depth. In addition, the characteristics and application requirements of global furrow depth control technology are summarized. It is proposed that the future planter should be developed in the direction of automatic navigation, automatic monitoring and evaluation of seeding quality, variable seeding, high-speed seeding, and other intelligent precision seeding techniques. The summary and outlook of this paper aim to promote the overall development of furrowing depth control technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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22 pages, 4939 KiB

Open AccessReview

Modelling and Control Methods in Path Tracking Control for Autonomous Agricultural Vehicles: A Review of State of the Art and Challenges

by Quanyu Wang, Jin He, Caiyun Lu, Chao Wang, Han Lin, Hanyu Yang, Hang Li and Zhengyang Wu

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 7155; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127155 - 15 Jun 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2381

Abstract

This paper provides a review of path-tracking strategies used in autonomous agricultural vehicles, mainly from two aspects: vehicle model construction and the development and improvement of path-tracking algorithms. Vehicle models are grouped into numerous types based on the structural characteristics and working conditions, [...] Read more.

This paper provides a review of path-tracking strategies used in autonomous agricultural vehicles, mainly from two aspects: vehicle model construction and the development and improvement of path-tracking algorithms. Vehicle models are grouped into numerous types based on the structural characteristics and working conditions, including wheeled tractors, tracked tractors, rice transplanters, high clearance sprays, agricultural robots, agricultural tractor–trailers, etc. The application and improvement of path-tracking control methods are summarized based on the different working scenes and types of agricultural machinery. This study explores each of these methods in terms of accuracy, stability, robustness, and disadvantages/advantages. The main challenges in the field of agricultural vehicle path tracking control are defined, and future research directions are offered based on critical reviews. This review aims to provide a reference for determining which controllers to use in path-tracking control development for an autonomous agricultural vehicle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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20 pages, 2680 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Posture Detection Methods for Pigs Using Deep Learning

by Zhe Chen, Jisheng Lu and Haiyan Wang

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 6997; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13126997 - 09 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1684

Abstract

Analysis of pig posture is significant for improving the welfare and yield of captive pigs under different conditions. Detection of pig postures, such as standing, lateral lying, sternal lying, and sitting, can facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the psychological and physiological conditions of [...] Read more.

Analysis of pig posture is significant for improving the welfare and yield of captive pigs under different conditions. Detection of pig postures, such as standing, lateral lying, sternal lying, and sitting, can facilitate a comprehensive assessment of the psychological and physiological conditions of pigs, prediction of their abnormal or detrimental behavior, and evaluation of the farming conditions to improve pig welfare and yield. With the introduction of smart farming into the farming industry, effective and applicable posture detection methods become indispensable for realizing the above purposes in an intelligent and automatic manner. From early manual modeling to traditional machine vision, and then to deep learning, multifarious detection methods have been proposed to meet the practical demand. Posture detection methods based on deep learning show great superiority in terms of performance (such as accuracy, speed, and robustness) and feasibility (such as simplicity and universality) compared with most traditional methods. It is promising to popularize deep learning technology in actual commercial production on a large scale to automate pig posture monitoring. This review comprehensively introduces the data acquisition methods and sub-tasks for pig posture detection and their technological evolutionary processes, and also summarizes the application of mainstream deep learning models in pig posture detection. Finally, the limitations of current methods and the future directions for research will be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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17 pages, 3445 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Situation and Future Development Direction of Soil Covering and Compacting Technology under Precision Seeding Conditions in China

by Wenchao Yang, Jin He, Caiyun Lu, Han Lin, Hanyu Yang and Hang Li

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(11), 6586; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13116586 - 29 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1260

Abstract

Precision seeding is an effective technical way to improve quality and reduce material costs. However, certain factors limit the development and promotion of precision seeding technology, among which the main factor is that the agronomic requirements of sowing vary significantly in different areas, [...] Read more.

Precision seeding is an effective technical way to improve quality and reduce material costs. However, certain factors limit the development and promotion of precision seeding technology, among which the main factor is that the agronomic requirements of sowing vary significantly in different areas, and there is a lack of suitable implements; at the same time, each link among the parts interact, which brings specific difficulties to improving the operational effect. This paper summarizes the precision seeding technology from the perspective of precision seeding realization and the consistency of seed spacing and use of consistent sowing depth control technology. A detailed description is included of the precision seed-discharge technology, the smooth seed-dropping technology, and the seed falling into the seed bed with precision. The need for regulation technology for consistent sowing depth is explained from a developmental perspective. The research status of compatible sowing depth control technology is described, as used in soil covering and compacting. This paper presents the problems and future development directions of soil-covering and compacting technology under precision-seeding conditions, including developing adaptable regional soil-covering and compacting devices, improving the processing and equipment technology of enterprises, strengthening the structural optimization design of soil-covering and compacting devices, conducting research into soil-covering and compacting control methods, and promoting the intellectual development of agricultural equipment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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18 pages, 1764 KiB

Open AccessReview

Shell Waste Management and Utilization: Mitigating Organic Pollution and Enhancing Sustainability

by Natalija Topić Popović, Vanesa Lorencin, Ivančica Strunjak-Perović and Rozelindra Čož-Rakovac

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(1), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13010623 - 02 Jan 2023

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 14605

Abstract

Every year, close to 8 million tons of waste crab, shrimp and lobster shells are produced globally, as well as 10 million tons of waste oyster, clam, scallop and mussel shells. The disposed shells are frequently dumped at sea or sent to landfill, [...] Read more.

Every year, close to 8 million tons of waste crab, shrimp and lobster shells are produced globally, as well as 10 million tons of waste oyster, clam, scallop and mussel shells. The disposed shells are frequently dumped at sea or sent to landfill, where they modify soils, waters and marine ecosystems. Waste shells are a major by-product, which should become a new raw material to be used to the best of their potential. There are a number of applications for waste shells in many fields, such as agriculture, medicine, chemical production, construction, environmental protection, cosmetic industry, food and feed industry, and a plethora of other (often niche) applications, which are being developed by the day. This review provides a broad picture of crustacean and mollusc shell waste management and reutilization possibilities, reviewing well established, current, and potential strategies, particularly from the standpoint of sustainability challenges and energy demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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26 pages, 8429 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Development of Rubber Tapping Machines in Intelligent Agriculture: A Review

by Hui Yang, Zejin Sun, Junxiao Liu, Zhifu Zhang and Xirui Zhang

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(18), 9304; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12189304 - 16 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 8323

Abstract

In the past decade, intelligent technologies have advanced rapidly, particularly due to improvements in automatic control, which have had a significant impact on forestry, as well as animal husbandry and the future of farm management. However, the degree of production and management mechanization [...] Read more.

In the past decade, intelligent technologies have advanced rapidly, particularly due to improvements in automatic control, which have had a significant impact on forestry, as well as animal husbandry and the future of farm management. However, the degree of production and management mechanization in natural rubber plantations is low, especially since the methods of tapping still rely heavily on labor. The decrease of skilled rubber tappers and the increase in labor costs have led to the development of the mechanization of rubber tapping operations. The application of emerging intelligent agricultural technologies could provide an alternative in order to maximize the potential productivity of natural rubber. Based on this vision, we reviewed the literature on rubber tapping from the past decade for system implementation in rubber plantations. In this review, selected references on rubber tapping were categorized into several directions of research, including rubber tapping machines, the key technologies applied in tapping operations, and some related protective research, analyzing research works from 2010 to 2022 that focused on tapping methods. The review also discusses the application of intelligent agricultural technologies, such as the recognition of tapping trajectory and tapping path planning. A summary of challenges and future trends is also provided in this study. Based on the relevant research, the use of intelligent technologies in rubber tapping machines is still in its initial stage and has broad prospects. Through this study, we aim to provide a reference for researchers in the field of rubber tapping machines and thus to play a positive role in future rubber tapping. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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18 pages, 4040 KiB

Open AccessReview

Applications of Water Jet Cutting Technology in Agricultural Engineering: A Review

by Dandan Cui, Hongwen Li, Jin He, Qingjie Wang, Caiyun Lu, Hongnan Hu, Xiupei Cheng and Chunlei Wang

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(18), 8988; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12188988 - 07 Sep 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2993

Abstract

Cutting is a significant part of agricultural material processing, and the cutting technology determines the quality of agricultural products. Water jet cutting technology is a non-contact and cold cutting technology suitable for cutting agricultural materials. It can realize an environmentally friendly cutting process [...] Read more.

Cutting is a significant part of agricultural material processing, and the cutting technology determines the quality of agricultural products. Water jet cutting technology is a non-contact and cold cutting technology suitable for cutting agricultural materials. It can realize an environmentally friendly cutting process avoiding such problems as heat generation, sharpening and cleaning blades, and microbial cross-contamination. This paper reviews the current status of water jet cutting of six kinds of agricultural materials, including vegetables, fruits, meats, woods, stems, and soils. By analyzing how to complete different cutting operations, improve cutting ability, or control post-cutting influences, the problems and solutions of water jet cutting of each material are summarized. Then, combined with the application requirements, some suggestions are put forward for developing water jet cutting technology. The results would help researchers determine key information required by cutting agricultural materials and provide a reference for further research on water jet cutting technology in agricultural engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Agricultural Science and Technology)

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