Evolution of No-Till Precision Seeding Equipment: From Contact-Dynamic Reshaping to Cyber–Physical System (CPS) Closed-Loop Control
Chirui Zhang, Yuting Dong, Jiahao Shen, Shiguo Wang, Xiaohu Guo, Zhong TangNo-till precision seeding is an important component of conservation tillage, but stable operation remains constrained by compacted undisturbed soil, dense crop residues, and uneven field surfaces. This review examines the evolution of no-till precision seeding equipment from mechanical soil–residue interaction to cyber–physical closed-loop regulation. It first summarizes how soil resistance and residue interference affect furrow opening, seed placement, and seed–soil contact. It then examines the development of residue-management, furrow-opening, covering, and compaction mechanisms, highlighting the transition from passive structural optimization toward active and adaptive operation. Advances in multi-source sensing, electric-drive metering, downforce control, and vibration suppression are further reviewed as enabling technologies for improving seeding stability under variable and high-speed conditions. Despite these advances, persistent trade-offs remain among residue-removal capacity, soil disturbance, energy demand, component durability, system complexity, and operational stability. Emerging approaches based on digital twins, adaptive damping, and cooperative autonomous systems may support further improvements, but their practical implementation still requires robust field performance and effective system integration. Overall, no-till seeding equipment is progressing toward perception-assisted and closed-loop intelligent regulation while continuing to face important mechanical and implementation challenges.