Factors Affecting the Performance of a Potato Digger—A Review

Abstract

Potatoes, a cornerstone of Indian agriculture, hold immense nutritional value, contributing significantly to vitamin-rich, low-cost carbohydrates. The efficiency of potato harvesting is paramount, requiring a timely and well-coordinated process. This review encapsulates the historical progression in potato harvesting, from manual approaches to the adoption of various potato diggers—animal-drawn, power tiller-operated, engine-operated, tractor-drawn, and self-propelled, categorized by their power sources. The study emphasizes key design parameters influencing digger performance, such as forward speed, rake angle, digging depth, sieve oscillation, and digging share types. This comprehensive exploration aims to enhance our understanding of potato diggers’ diverse landscape, fostering informed decisions for sustainable and efficient harvesting.