Article
Article
Agricultural machinery
Article By:
Rumsey, James W. Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of California, Davis, California.
O'Brien, Michael Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of California, Davis, California.
Last reviewed:May 2021
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.015600
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- Agricultural machinery, published June 2016:Download PDF
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Mechanized systems of food and fiber production used in agriculture. The mechanized systems comprising agricultural machinery are utilized in numerous aspects of agriculture, including the initial tillage of the soil (Fig. 1), planting, cultural practices during the growing season, protection from pests, harvesting, conditioning, livestock feeding, and delivery for processing. The use of hydraulic power has made possible highly specialized mechanisms to perform intricate operations. Hydraulic power offers the advantages of being easily controlled and automated. Sophisticated technology is used to increase the precision needed in modern agriculture: lasers for laying out fields for surface irrigation systems; microprocessors for sensing and controlling intricate operations, such as controlling feed mixtures for dairy cows and grading fruits and vegetables; and electronic devices in the automation of many harvesters. See also: Agricultural engineering; Agricultural science (animal); Agricultural science (plant); Agricultural soil and crop practices; Agriculture; Dairy machinery; Hydraulics
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