2015 Volume 50 Issue 4 Pages 91-101
Planting of Allium × wakegi Araki bulbs is physically strenuous because it is performed manually with a squatting position. Therefore, we have developed a simplified planting machine that can be used for planting Allium × wakegi Araki bulbs and a planting method. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of using this planting machine for the cultivation on subjective exercise intensity, work time, work position of laborers, and the subsequent plant growth. In order to improve the working posture during the use of the developed system, the working posture was evaluated using the OWAS method; the results demonstrated that in 90% of the control group, postures need consideration in the near future (AC3), while more than 90% of the treatment group showed normal postures which do not need any special attention, except in some special cases (AC1) and postures must be considered during the next regular check of working methods (AC2). Furthermore, the subjective exercise intensity at the end of the work during subjective evaluation was based on the modified Borg Scale; complaints of the lower back was 5.7-7.7, thigh was 3.3-8.8, and knee was 1.3-5.7 in the control group, complaints of the thigh was 0.7, knee was 0.3, and calf was 1.0 in the treatment group. The work time during planting was reduced significantly; however, a decrease in the entire working duration, including the preparation, was not observed. A countermeasure was considered that might improve the efficiency of loading the bulbs into the connected paper pot that occupies 59-83% of the total. The sprouting and rooting days and the growth and yield obtained using the planting machine were comparable to the bulbs that were manually planted.
