Design and field validation of an automated sensor-integrated high-capacity corn plot seeder

Efficient and accurate plot seeding is essential for modern crop breeding and precision agriculture. However, existing systems demonstrate limitations in terms of automation, throughput, and sensing capabilities. To address these challenges, an automated, sensor-integrated, high-capacity planting system was developed for corn plot seeders. The mechanical dynamics of seed delivery were analyzed, and key parameters, including opener tip angle, tilt angle, pushrod speed, and opening position, were optimized using response surface methodology. The optimal parameter combination (30°, 49°, 90 mm/s, and − 9 mm, respectively) yielded a seeding qualification rate of 99.33%. A three-stage sensor module comprising QR code recognition, cartridge positioning, and seed-drop detection was integrated to ensure accurate seed–plot matching. Field experiments demonstrated a 76% reduction in manual intervention, with an error tolerance of 0.1%. Therefore, the proposed system provides an effective and scalable solution for precision plot seeding and offers a practical framework for upgrading existing agricultural equipment.