IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology
eISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
ZERO/MINIMUM TURNING RADIUS OF A TRACTOR Sumair Sunny1, Sunny Pawar2, Siddhesh Ozarkar3 1
Mechanical Engineer, Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Maharashtra, India Mechanical Engineer, Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Maharashtra, India 3 Mechanical Engineer, Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Maharashtra, India 2
Abstract In this paper we have taken a conventional tractor and endowed it with the ability to take turns with a much smaller turning radius. The paper comprehensively covers the methodology, calculations, analysis and concludes with a value proposition. The base-line tractor we have considered is the John Deere 5065 E model. We try to achieve our goal without over complicating the original design. At the same time the solution needs to be realistic and technically feasible whilst also cost effective. We also try to facilitate poke-yoke and fail-safe measures so as to help users adjust to the new design.
Keywords: Zero Turning, Hydrostatic Transmission, Simulink, Tractor, Steering, Hydraulics --------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------1. WHAT IS ZERO/MINIMUM TURNING? A zero turn if taken literally means that the tractor should be able to rotate about a stationary pivot point/axis. A minimum turn radius means that the turn envelope of the tractor should be as small as could possibly be achieved. In other words the minimum wall to wall distance within which the vehicle can turn should be as small as possible.
1.1 Base-Line Tractor’s Specifications [11]:
Engine max. power: 65hp @ 2400 rpm Steering type: power steering Front tire width: 6.5 inch Front tire outer diameter: 25 inch Rear tire width: 18.4 inch Rear tire outer diameter: 50 inch Total Weight: 2290 kg Wheel Base: 2035 mm Overall length: 3535 mm Overall width: 1890 mm Turning Radius with brakes: 3099 mm
1.2 Prerequisite Knowledge Tractors take sharp turns with brake assistance. That means if a tractor is to turn left the driver can press the left brake to reduce the speed of the left drive wheel while the right wheel continues to move undisturbed. The same can be done for right turns. This independent braking system enables the tractor to take sharp turns.
We have assumed the peripheral diameter of both tires since this data wasn’t available on John Deere’s website. For the front tire we have considered a peripheral diameter of 25” and for the rear 50”. We have also considered the weight distribution about the center of gravity to be in a 40/60 ratio. In other words, 40% of the weight acts on the front axle & 60% of the weight acts on the rear axle.
2. SOLUTION The means by which we wish to achieve our goal is by the extensive use of hydraulics. Please refer to the diagram on following page. [2] In our design we eliminate the gear box transmission & differential of the tractor as well as its conventional braking system by incorporating both of these systems in the hydraulic circuit. The reason for doing this is due to the fact that the two independent hydraulic motors enable the wheels to rotate not only in the same direction (for forward or reverse) but also in opposite direction (for zero turning). This is analogous with the way an army tank turns. This solution is similar to the John Deere “Skid Steer” however we try to eliminate the “skid” as in some cases it may induce heavy stresses onto the drive axles.
Our aim would be to try and reduce this turning radius as far as possible. Since the tractor has a power steering system, we do not want to eliminate this feature unless we are implementing a better steering option.
_______________________________________________________________________________________ Volume: 03 Issue: 09 | Sep-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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