Want Precision Planting Equipment

RFQ Details

We are seeking Design and Development of Precision Planting Equipment.

Especially interested in approaches that improve seed singulation, and have accurate metering and distribution capabilities.

The successful planter will:

* Meter and distribute single seeds at
o Rates of 6-10 seeds / m
o Depth of 4-8 cm
o Operating speed at least 3.5 km / hr
* Open the soil, and close and firm it after seed deposition
* Be precise, and limit the number of gaps between emerged plant stands
* 95% of gaps must be < 25 cm for plantings of < 100,000 seeds / ha
* Plant seeds in 2-4 rows at a time
* Have a seed box
* Handle large seeds of 5 cm at largest dimension
* Limit mechanical damage to seeds
* Function on flat to 5% grade


Possible approaches might include, but are not limited to:

* Devices that can be towed by a tractor
* Automated, self-propelled vehicles
* Industrial conveyor equipment
* Digging or drilling devices
* Farming / harvesting machinery
* Custom mechanical engineering
* Modified potato planters


Responses from companies, researchers, consultants, entrepreneurs, or inventors are welcome.

Appropriate responses will address the following:

* Features of the proposed design or equipment that will achieve the stated aims
* Current application or industry, if applicable
* Data demonstrating achievement of the technical specifications, if available
* Environmental conditions for which planter is suitable (soil types, temperatures, humidity, etc.)
* Geographical regions of the world where you would be able to supply a solution
* Availability of prototypes, if applicable
* General development plan and time-line that addresses any gaps in capabilities
* Field testing capabilities and locations
* Unit cost and / or design and development budget estimates
* The Intellectual Property status
* Preferred business arrangements