Development of a Drone-Based Seed Bombing Mechanism for Ecological Restoration in Challenging Terrains

Abstract

This paper details the design of an advanced drone
based seed bombing system engineered for ecological restoration
in Nepal’s challenging and remote terrains. The existing system
faced significant limitations, including a restricted seed capacity,
frequent jamming, high power consumption, and an inadequate
operating height. The objective of this research was to develop a
new mechanism capable of increasing seed capacity to 300 seeds,
ensuring continuous, jam-free operation, functioning effectively
from a height of 30 meters, and minimizing electricity consump
tion. The proposed solution integrates an optimized hopper with
a pyramid shape and an internal mixer to prevent congestion,
coupled with a robust flywheel-based shooting mechanism. This
mechanism incorporates a hinged, spring-tensioned flywheel to
accommodate varying seed sizes, ensuring consistent contact and
precise seed acceleration to 25 m/s. Detailed calculations for
motor power, spring constants, and seed trajectory informed
the design. The system’s development also considered local
manufacturing capabilities, aiming for a sustainable and effective
reforestation tool.