Mathematical Modeling of Soil Interaction with Flat Guide Discs of a Combined Tillage Unit
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32515/2414-3820.2026.56.155-167Keywords:
soil tillage equipment, share, guide discs, compaction, friction, kinematic parameterAbstract
The purpose of the study is to develop a mathematical model describing the interaction of soil with flat guide discs of a combined tillage unit and to substantiate their rational design parameters. The study aims to determine the regularities of soil particle movement, identify the friction zones on the disc surface, and establish the optimal geometric parameters of the guide discs to ensure efficient soil lifting and transportation.
The study is based on theoretical methods using the principles of theoretical mechanics and mathematical modeling of soil-tool interaction. A mathematical model of soil particle motion relative to the side surface of flat guide discs was developed. Analytical dependences describing the formation of friction zones on the disc surface were obtained, taking into account the kinematic parameter, the soil lifting angle, and the disc radius. The influence of these parameters on the area of the friction zone contributing to disc rotation was investigated. Mathematical dependences were also derived to determine the minimum allowable radius of the guide discs and the limiting distance between adjacent discs depending on soil moisture content and operating depth. Based on the developed model, response surface analysis was carried out to evaluate the combined influence of soil moisture and disc operating depth on the limiting spacing between discs. The obtained results make it possible to predict the operating conditions of the guide discs and to optimize their design parameters during the engineering design stage of combined tillage equipment.
The conducted research established that the rational radius of the flat guide discs is 0.172 m. It was found that the area of the friction zone promoting disc rotation depends on the soil lifting angle within 20-25°, as well as on the kinematic parameter and disc radius. The optimal spacing between the guide discs should be 0.12 m or more, which prevents soil clogging between the discs during soil lifting by the sweep. The developed mathematical model can be used as a theoretical basis for improving combined tillage units and increasing the efficiency of soil cultivation while reducing energy consumption.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mykyta Khramov, Vasil Hruban
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