The results of experimental studies of block-modular agricultural unit

Abstract

Goal. To improve the technical performance of the block-modular plow unit by damping its vertical oscillations by creating an elastic-dissipative connection of its technological and energy module (tractor). Methods. Experimental studies of the plow block-module unit were based on both generally accepted standard, and specially developed original methods using a strain gauge measuring complex and recording output signals on a PC using an analog-to-digital converter. The obtained data were processed on a PC using correlation analysis and analysis of variance. Results. Experimental studies have shown that the creation of a rational elastic-dissipative connection between the tractor and the technological module of the modular power tool makes it possible to obtain the desired amplitude-frequency and correlation-spectral characteristics of vertical oscillations of a block-modular agricultural unit. Conclusions. The creation of an elastic-dissipative connection between the tractor and the technological module in the unit with a coefficient of resistance of 1.65 kN·s/m on plowing made it possible to reduce by 3–4 times the variance of vertical oscillations of the block-module unit, increase its productivity by 6%, and reduce fuel consumption by 12.4%. As a result of rational throttling of the hydraulic system of the rear-hinged mechanism of the power module of the block-module unit, with reduction of the dispersion of vertical oscillations of the plow block-module unit, oscillations with frequencies over 2 Hz are eliminated. As their intensity decreases, the impact on the operator’s body weakens, and his productivity increases. The intensity of accelerations of vertical oscillations is reduced to 1 m/s2, which determines its operation with a permissible level of fatigue up to 8 hours.