Objective This study aims to systematically investigate the mechanism by which vibration affects the performance of a vacuum seed meter for rice, providing a theoretical basis for enhancing its field adaptability and structural optimization.

Method The three-dimensional (X, Y, Z) vibration characteristics of a precision rice planter during paddy field operation were obtained using a field vibration signal acquisition system. Based on a vibration test apparatus for vacuum seed meter, tests were conducted under various combinations of vibration frequency (10–100 Hz), amplitude (0.2–4.0 mm), metering shaft rotational speed (20–60 r·min⁻¹), and vacuum pressure (1.6–3.6 kPa). The missing index, single index, double index, triple index and multiple index were calculated to analyze the influence of vibration on seeding performance indicators.

Result The root mean square values of acceleration in the X, Y, and Z directions for the field machinery vibration signals were 1.79–2.08, 1.32–1.64, and 0.78–1.01 m·s⁻², respectively. Vibration test results indicated that under low vacuum pressure (1.6 kPa), vibration significantly increased the missing index (P<0.05). However, as vacuum pressure increased to 3.6 kPa, the missing index decreased to 0.37%–4.44%, with the impact of vibration markedly diminishing. Vibration generally increased the single index (by dislodging unstably attached second seed due to disturbance) while reducing the triple index (as the third seed became unstable and fell off). However, under high vacuum pressure, certain vibration conditions increased the double index. Vibration significantly interfered with both the seed filling and seed carrying stages, primarily by applying additional forces that disrupted the suction equilibrium of seeds.

Conclusion The vacuum seed meter for rice maintains high stability and reliability under vibrating conditions. Subsequent research should optimize the seed meter structure to minimize the impact of inter-seed forces on suctioned seeds, thereby reducing the required vacuum pressure under vibration operation.