Simulation Parameter Calibration and Test of Pak Choi Seeds Based on Discrete Element Method

Physical property parameter measurements and simulation model parameter calibrations of Pak Choi seeds were conducted to address the lack of accurate parameters for discrete elemental seed discharging simulation tests in the seed-metering device. Firstly, physical tests were utilized to determine the basic physical parameters and contact parameters of Pak Choi seeds. The results of these physical tests served as the basis for determining the range of simulation parameters. The Plackett-Burman test was employed to screen out factors that significantly affected the simulated angle of repose from the test parameters, including static friction coefficient between Pak Choi seeds-Pak Choi seeds and rolling friction coefficient between Pak Choi seeds-Pak Choi seeds. The optimal interval of these two factors was determined using the Steepest Climb Test. Subsequently, the regression equation between the significance parameters and the angle of repose was obtained through the Central Composite Designs test, and the best parameter combinations were obtained with the measured stacking angle of 24.3° as the optimisation target value: Pak Choi seeds-Pak Choi seeds static friction coefficient of 0.486, Pak Choi seeds-Pak Choi seeds rolling friction coefficient of 0.104. Finally, simulation and bench comparison tests were carried out for stacking angle and Pak Choi seed discharger performance evaluation. The relative error of the angle of repose was found to be 0.288%, while average relative errors for qualified sowing rate, replanting rate, and missed sowing rate were all less than 5%. These results demonstrate that calibrated Pak Choi seed simulation parameters are reliable and can serve as a reference for design optimization of Pak Choi seed dischargers in academic research writing standards.