Mechanized Weed Management: Single-Row Dual Rotor Weeder Design, Development and Fabrication in Bangladesh

Abstract

In Bangladesh, manual weeding in rice fields is labor-intensive and costly, affecting productivity. This study developed a manually operated, push-pull single-row double rotor weeder tailored to local conditions to improve rice farming efficiency. Fabricated using locally available materials, the weeder consists of a mainframe, skid, and two conical-shaped rotors with plain and serrated blades for effective weed uprooting and burial. It was tested in both research and farmer fields under clay loam conditions, with results showing a weeding efficiency of 81-82% and an effective field capacity of 0.0205 ha/h. The weeder requires a pushing force of 34.66 N and operates in fields with 2-4 cm of standing water. Weighing 5.4 kg, the weeder is lightweight, easy to handle, and causes minimal crop damage (1.84-1.96%). Its operational cost of Tk 3,112 (28.29 US$/ha) makes it highly affordable for small and medium-scale farmers. The design is simple, with adjustable handle height and locally sourced materials, ensuring ease of operation, low maintenance, and cost-effective fabrication. This technology addresses the challenge of manual weeding, providing a sustainable and economical solution that significantly reduces labor and improves productivity in rice cultivation. The weeder’s success in field trials demonstrates its potential for broader adoption in Bangladesh, promoting the modernization of weed management in the agricultural sector.