<![CDATA[In Indonesia, rice harvesting in rural areas is still largely done manually, resulting in low efficiency and high labor demands. This study aims to provide a practical solution by optimizing a two-stroke gasoline-powered grass cutter into a functional rice harvester. The research was conducted through stages including literature study, problem identification, design, fabrication, and performance testing. Mechanical analysis shows that the modified machine produces 47.7 N·mm³ torque and a cutting speed of 40.05 m/min, adequate for cutting rice stalks without stalling. Fuel tests revealed Pertamax offers better combustion efficiency than Pertalite. The balancing system improves operator comfort, while field trials showed a reduction in harvesting time by over 55% and labor costs by 50%. These results indicate that the optimized machine is effective, low-cost, and suitable for smallholder farmers.]]>
Copyrights © 2025
