Development and Field Testing of a Suspended Mulberry Branch Harvesting and Stubble Cutting Machine

Stubble cutting is a critical step in the mechanized harvesting of mulberry trees. Poor stubble cutting quality can lead to root decay, and even the death of the trees, reducing the rate of rejuvenation. In view of the relatively high damage rate of stubble cutting in the mulberry harvesting operations, this paper has conducted in-depth research and designed a mulberry branch harvesting and stubble cutting test machine. The overall structure and key technical parameters of the machine were determined and the design of critical components was theoretically analyzed. Field tests identified an optimized set of cutting parameters that effectively reduced stubble damage and energy consumption. The optimal parameter combination included a saw blade line speed of 74 m/s, a star-wheel ground clearance of 727 mm, and a cutting speed ratio of 93, resulting in a cutting energy consumption within 1 m of 241 mJ and a stubble score of 8.5. These parameters met the quality standards for mulberry harvesting. This research provides valuable data support for analyzing and optimizing the cutting parameters of mulberry stubble-cutting machines, laying a solid foundation for advancing mechanized harvesting technology for mulberry trees.