The right tool for the job

Dibble sticks, donkeys and diesels: machines in crop product:ion is a study of agricultural mechanization from simple hand tools to tractors. It provides the non-agricultural engineer with the information needed to understand why particular designs of tools are chosen and why certain draft animals, harnesses or machines are used. For instance, why are shorthandled hoes used in Africa? For human transport of loads why is the flexible bamboo carrying pole of Asia superior to the rigid poles used in some other countries? And what are the relative advantages of different systems of harrowing soil, or the angle of cut and depth of planting of cassava sticks? (The cutting angle of the stick and its position in relation to the soil surface both affect the position of the roots, so determining the efficiency of mechanical harvesting.) This book is practical, well written and enjoyable to read and there are interesting and useful tables of statistics and appendices which contain much additional technical information. Line drawings and black-andwhite photographs illustrate the book which also contains comprehensive references and a bibliography at the end of each chapter. Dibble sticks, donkeys and diesels: machines in crop production by Joseph K Campbell 1990, 329pp ISBN 971 104 185 5 IRRI PO Box 933 Manila PHILIPPINESDibble sticks, donkeys and diesels: machines in crop product:ion is a study of agricultural mechanization from simple hand tools to tractors. It provides the non-agricultural engineer with the information needed to understand why particular designs..