Simulation model of the formation of loads on the driving wheels of a tracked bulldozer

Introduction. The scientific article notes that dynamic coefficients are used for strength calculations of bulldozer units and parts, including the driving wheels. The analysis of the research results shows that the studying of dynamic processes appearing during the movement of various types of tracked vehicles evokes great interest. Materials and Methods . To analyze the dynamic loads on the driving wheels during cutting and pushing soil, the authors proposed to use dynamic, mathematical, and simulation models of bulldozer. They are based on a comprehensive systemic approach and include the engine, transmission, tracks, working equipment, and the external environment. Using specialized software based on mathematical models and capable to simulate bulldozer movement, blade penetration, chip thickness increase, drag prism growth, and soil transportation, a series of numerical experiments have been conducted simulating the machine operation while moving soil with varying chip thickness. Results. The results of simulation experiments modeling the cutting and pushing soil process with different chip thickness show that working with a smaller chip thickness (which implies a relatively low load level), the coefficients of dynamism reach significant values - up to 20%. Conversely, when working with a larger chip thickness and, accordingly, under a high load level, the values of these coefficients are insignificant - no more than 3%. Discussions and Conclusions . Therefore, performing strength calculations for driving wheels of bulldozer caterpillar tracks and maximum loads on the working equipment, the use of dynamic factors is not needed, as strength calculations include safety factors that make approximately 20% of the static loads. Unjustified use of high dynamic coefficients leads to the increase in the metal consumption of the structure, and, as a result, to the increase in the cost of the designed equipment.