Critical review of sunflower harvesting header technology: Loss reduction, adaptability, and intelligent mechanization
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) harvesting efficiency and loss minimization are critical for the sustainability of this vital oilseed crop, with the header playing a decisive role. However, persistent challenges in reducing header losses, enhancing adaptability to diverse agro-conditions, and advan...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier
2025-12-01
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| Series: | Smart Agricultural Technology |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S277237552500468X |
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| Summary: | Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) harvesting efficiency and loss minimization are critical for the sustainability of this vital oilseed crop, with the header playing a decisive role. However, persistent challenges in reducing header losses, enhancing adaptability to diverse agro-conditions, and advancing intelligent mechanization impede optimal performance. This critical review synthesizes current knowledge on sunflower harvesting header technology, focusing on these key challenges. It systematically analyzes the evolution of header designs and the functional intricacies of core components—dividers, gathering units, cutting mechanisms, and conveying systems—with a particular emphasis on their inherent limitations and impact on loss generation and operational flexibility. The paper critically evaluates existing loss reduction strategies for kernel shattering, head dropping, and improper stalk handling, reframing them within a systems engineering (Harvesting-Machine-Environment-Crop) context and exploring the potential of Sense-Decide-Act intelligent control paradigms. Special attention is given to the difficulties faced in adapting current technologies to varied sunflower cultivars and complex farming scenarios, such as those prevalent in China. By identifying key technological bottlenecks and knowledge gaps, this review charts a clear path towards intelligent mechanization. It outlines future research priorities and technological advancements necessary for developing next-generation sunflower headers that are not only efficient and low-loss but also highly adaptable and intelligent, thereby addressing the pressing needs of the modern sunflower industry. |
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| ISSN: | 2772-3755 |