Discrete Element Method in Agricultural Machinery Design: A Critical Review of Applications, Validation Practices, and Implementation Challenges

Abstract

The discrete element method (DEM) has become an important numerical tool for investigating the interactions between agricultural machinery and granular agricultural materials. By enabling the analysis of particle-scale dynamics and macroscopic system behavior, the DEM provides valuable support for the design, optimization, and performance evaluation of agricultural equipment. This paper presents a comprehensive review of advances in the application of the DEM in agricultural machinery, with particular emphasis on material modeling, parameter calibration strategies, and the simulation of machine operational processes. First, the establishment of DEM models for major agricultural materials, including soil, seeds, and plant residues, is analyzed, highlighting commonly adopted contact models and calibration methodologies. Second, the application of the DEM in the simulation of key agricultural operations, such as soil tillage, material conveying, and harvesting processes, is examined to identify current capabilities and limitations. Finally, the main technical challenges and future research directions are discussed, focusing on improving model accuracy, validation practices, and integration with experimental and industrial workflows. Among the studies analyzed, the results showed varying performance when comparing experimental and simulated values, with the best results exhibiting a relative difference of less than 1%. However, persistent challenges regarding transferability and computational cost limit industrial-scale adoption. This review aims to provide an organized framework to guide future developments and promote the effective use of the DEM in the design and optimization of agricultural machinery.