BACKGROUND: Based on the analysis and systematization of scientific research and advanced experience in the field of development and application of machines and technologies, the emphasis is placed on solving the relevant problem — increasing the efficiency and quality of operation of threshing and separating devices (TSD) of stationary threshers and mobile combine harvesters for harvesting grain legumes and other crops, using innovative machines and technologies. Particular attention is paid to overcoming the problems associated with non-compliance with agrotechnical, economic and other requirements, as well as insufficient quality indicators demonstrated by serial models of machinery. The new mechanization system ensures more efficient production of crop products according to the calculated technical and economic indicators.

AIM: Determination of optimal design solutions and technological parameters that ensure minimal grain losses and maximum productivity of grain legumes threshing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on an extensive array of scientific data and progressive experience in the field of development and application of machinery and technologies in crop production, in particular, in seed production, an attempt was made to study and identify existing problems, as well as to determine the strategy for improving the quality of products compared to current requirements. The key research tool is the analysis and systematization of existing achievements in the field of improving machine technologies in seed production.

RESULTS: The analysis of the obtained data and arguments in favor of the conclusions made demonstrate that the most promising devices are threshing machines, the operating principle of which is based on a combination of the impact of the working bodies and grinding with the use of elastic elements, which allows minimizing mechanical damage to seeds during threshing and separation. That means to increasing the efficiency of grain separating for the intended purpose.

CONCLUSION: This paper contains study and evaluation of the efficiency of threshing devices used in threshing machines designed specifically for harvesting including grain legumes. Various types of threshing machines, their design features and impact on the quality of threshing are considered. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of factors affecting grain damage during threshing, as well as ways to reduce this damage. The results of the study can be used to improve the design of threshing machines, grain legume combine harvesters and to increase the efficiency of harvesting.