Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Tekirdag Agricultural Faculty, cilt.22, sa.4, ss.880-895, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus, TRDizin)
The increasing demand for medicinal and aromatic plants in both local and global agricultural markets has heightened the significance of lavender cultivation. To meet this growing demand, there is a need to shift from traditional farming methods to technological production tools and agricultural innovations. In Turkey, lavender harvesting is predominantly carried out manually, which is both labor-intensive and physically strenuous. To enhance commercial productivity, the implementation of mechanized harvesting methods has become essential. In this study, a prototype of a lavender harvester was developed and manufactured, designed to accommodate the characteristics of lavender plants and field conditions, addressing the challenges faced during the harvesting process. The process began with the identification of the machine’s functional units and the development of preliminary design drawings. The performance tests of the manufactured harvester were conducted under field conditions, focusing on its cutting and binding capabilities. The test results indicated that the machine achieved an average cutting efficiency of 95.2% and an average binding efficiency of 68.0%. Furthermore, the experiments demonstrated that the harvested lavender could be successfully transferred to a trailer or directly onto the field surface using a conveyor belt system. However, it was identified that alternative binding mechanisms need to be explored, and machine performance should be improved, particularly concerning the bundling process. Addressing these aspects is crucial for enhancing the overall efficiency of the lavender harvester. Mechanizing the harvesting process reduces dependence on manual labor and consequently increases harvest efficiency, contributing to the commercial productivity and sustainability of lavender farming. The lavender harvester developed and manufactured in this study distinguishes itself from existing machines with its customized transportation system, binding unit, and adjustable cutting width. These technological applications enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of lavender harvesting operations. This study represents a significant step towards the mechanization of lavender harvesting and lays the groundwork for future research and development in this field.