Development and Performance Evaluation of a Two-Wheel Soil Tiller for Sustainable Smallholder Farming in Developing Regions

Abstract

Soil tillage is a critical yet complex agricultural operation, especially for small-scale farmers in regions where access to affordable and efficient machinery is limited. Traditional methods using manual tools or animal traction are labour-intensive and often inefficient, while large-scale mechanized equipment is both costly and environmentally harmful. This paper addresses these challenges by developing and evaluating an affordable, adaptable, and sustainable two-wheeled soil tiller. The tiller is powered by a 6.5 HP gasoline engine, features high-carbon steel blades, and incorporates an ergonomic, modular frame that has been optimized through structural, torque, and power transmission analyses. Field tests conducted across four soil types (loam, clay, sandy, and silty) showed that performance varied by soil type: sandy soil achieved the highest tilling efficiency (0.00212 m²/s) and lowest fuel consumption (1.0 L/h), while clay soil had the lowest efficiency (0.00100 m²/s) and highest fuel consumption (1.5 L/h). The tiller demonstrated a 98% mechanical efficiency and a field capacity of 0.04–0.06 ha/h, which is two times more efficient than animal traction and three times more efficient than manual hoeing. Additionally, it reduced operational costs by 75%. Its lightweight, compact design enhances manoeuvrability on fragmented plots and minimizes soil disturbance, supporting sustainable agricultural practices. The results highlight the potential of this tiller to bridge the mechanization gap, offering smallholder farmers a more productive and cost-effective solution. Future research could explore hybrid or electric power systems and integration with precision agriculture techniques. This innovation represents a significant step toward achieving food security, boosting economic resilience, and promoting environmental conservation in small-scale farming communities.