Improving the design of crawler trailers to increase cross-country ability in wetlands

Abstract

The cross-country ability of tracked vehicles in swampy areas remains a critical factor in the effectiveness of construction work in conditions of waterlogged soils. Modern studies of the interaction of crawler thrusters with soft soils reveal insufficient elaboration of the design solutions of ground hooks to ensure an optimal balance between traction characteristics and minimizing destructive effects on the soil structure. A conceptual model of the adaptive configuration of ground hooks is presented, based on a comprehensive analysis of teramechanical processes in the crawler propulsion-waterlogged soil system. The developed methodology includes numerical modeling of the stress-strain state of the contact zone, experimental studies of traction characteristics and optimization of geometric parameters of ground hooks, taking into account the rheological properties of swampy soils. The research results demonstrate a significant increase in cross-country efficiency when modifying the design of ground hooks with an increase in traction capacity by 18-23% and a decrease in specific pressure on the ground by 12-15% compared with traditional solutions. The proposed design modifications ensure stable performance of tracked propulsion systems in conditions of soil humidity of 25-40% with a bearing capacity of 0.08-0.15 MPa, which corresponds to the typical characteristics of a swampy area. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of increasing the operational efficiency of construction machinery when operating in difficult ground conditions while reducing the environmental impact on natural ecosystems.