A Novel Approach to Determine Static Falling down Sidelong Angle of Tractor Using a 3D Printed Miniature Model

Abstract

In this study, we have conducted a quasi-static lateral overturning test and derived a static falling down sidelong angle by using a miniature tractor model. We analyzed the lateral overturning condition of tractors theoretically by literature review and derived a method to manufacture a miniature model based on the analysis result. A miniature model was manufactured using a 3D printer at a scale of 1/20, relative to the actual dimension of a tractor. In addition, a test platform was constructed to perform lateral overturning tests. The miniature model was placed on the test platform, and the inclination angle of the ground was gradually increased. Then the static falling down sidelong angle, that is the inclination angle at the moment of lateral overturning occurred, was measured. The test result indicated that the difference of average static falling down sidelong angle was 1.0%. comparing to the accredited certification test result of the original tractor. Therefore, by utilizing the method applied in this study, the static falling down sidelong angle of tractors could be derived quickly and conveniently from a miniature model. As future research, the in-depth verification for the developed method is required by applying to a variety of agricultural machines.

Keywords

• 3D printer
• lateral overturning
• miniature model
• static falling down sidelong angle