EVOLUTION OF POTATO HARVESTING EQUIPMENT

Mechanization of potato harvesting is a long process of evolution that began with the introduction of the simplest tools. These devices were gradually improved, which led to their replacement with more complex machines, which made it possible to significantly increase labor productivity and process large areas of land in a short time. (Research purpose) The research purpose is identifying the main stages and patterns of development of potato harvesters, as well as analyzing the factors influencing this process. (Materials and methods) The development of potato harvesting equipment was studied using various methodological directions, such as externalism, internalism and the historical and analytical method. The influence of external factors on the development of agricultural machinery is multidimensional and depends on a variety of circumstances that may change over time. Scientific research, engineering developments and technological innovations play a key role in the creation of new models of potato harvesters, ensuring their efficiency and productivity. (Results and discussion) Presented the history of mechanization of potato harvesting, starting with the first attempts at the beginning of the XX century. and ending with the development of more modern potato harvesters in the post-war years. The main attention was paid to the evolution of structures, increasing efficiency and reducing labor costs during harvesting. (Conclusions) The process of mechanization of potato harvesting is a complex evolutionary trajectory that began with the introduction of elementary agricultural implements. Over time, agrotechnical tools underwent modernization and optimization, which led to their gradual replacement with more complex and technologically advanced machines. This transformation reflects significant progress in the field of agricultural engineering and mechanization of agricultural production, contributing to increased efficiency and productivity in the field of potato growing.