LAUSR

No-till seeding operations are typically limited to speeds of 8–9 km h−1 to avoid the excessive soil disturbance caused by straight narrow furrow openers. This study provides a design analysis of a previously identified low disturbance alternative to straight openers – the bentleg opener-in a virtual soil bin constructed with the discrete element method (DEM). DEM modelling results show soil disturbance with bentleg openers is minimised by streamlining the opener, reducing its thickness and maximising its leading chamfer. A curved – rather than angular-transition connecting the side leg to the vertical shank portion further reduces soil disturbance. The bentleg foot initiated soil failure, driving loosening, draught and penetration forces. However, the vertical upheave caused by the foot increases soil throw at shallower settings (