Students develop 'nano tractor' to aid small farmers

A group of budding mechanical engineers have come up with an agro-equipment, in an effort to help small and marginal farmers.

Final year mechanical engineering students of ATME College of Engineering in Mysuru — Aathir Md, M Suhaib, Anthony Johny, Aquib Arbaz and Mujahid Khan — have developed a low-cost and compact ‘nano tractor.’

According to the students, the vehicle, which weighs 250 kg, can plough land up to 6 inches deep and pull a load of six quintals. The agriculture equipment is a boon, especially for vegetable growers, horticulturists and small farmers. Compared to other tractors, the two-wheel drive nano tractor is economically viable, easy to maintain and handle, they added.

The team has worked for five months to develop the tractor. To begin with, the team, along with their guide N Rakshith, an assistant professor in mechanical engineering, conducted a survey to learn about the farmers’ requirement. During the survey, the team understood the necessity for a smaller and a versatile farm equipment that should be made affordable cost-wise. Then, they came up with an idea to design a ‘nano tractor’ with a relatively smaller engine and better performance.

The young engineers have used an old 300 cubic centimetres (CC) autorickshaw engine, which has the capacity to produce 7.5 Brake Horse Power (BHP) and other old vehicles’ spare parts to develop the tractor. The performance test indicates that the tractor fulfills the requirements of the small farmers. According to the students, the cost of the project was Rs 60,000.

Assistant Professor Rakshith said, “The model and the concept can be used to design and manufacture on a large scale, which can help a section of the farming community. The team is planning to upgrade the tractor with a four-wheel drive and a more powerful engine.”
DH News Service