Improved operator comfort and off-road capability through pendulum arm technology. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gelin, Olle; Henriksen, Fredrik; Volungholen, Rolf; Björheden, Rolf
• Is Part Of: Journal of terramechanics. Volume 90(2020)
• Page Start: 41
• Page End: 48
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: Off-road -- Pendulum arms -- Concept machine -- Forestry -- Operator environment -- Vibrations -- Soil impact -- Rutting; 3D three-dimensional -- ADAMS Multibody Dynamics Simulation Software -- Bodas Bosch Rexroth Control System -- IMU Inertial Measurement Unit -- ISO International Organization for Standardization -- kN kilonewton -- m/s meter per second -- RMS Root Mean Square -- rpm revolutions per minute -- Xt28 nomenclature for the tested pendulum arm forwarder concept machine; Trafficability -- Periodicals; Praticabilité (Routes) -- Périodiques; Trafficability; Periodicals; 629.222
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jterra.2020.01.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-4898

Abstract

Highlights: Active chassis damping by pendulum arms significantly improves the operator comfort. The pendulum-arm forwarder reduced roll angle movement by up to 50%. Rut depth is not increased by turning, for a machine with double articulated joint frame. Abstract: The Nordic forest industry requires just-in-time wood deliveries. Operations must continue regardless of season, weather and terrain. Soil compaction and deep ruts must be avoided while providing high performance and a reasonable working environment for operators. The Xt28 pendulum arm forwarder is a full-size concept forwarder with six hydrostatic propelled wheels on pendulum arms built on a three-piece frame connected with two articulation joints. The Xt28 concept machine was tested according to Skogforsk standard machine tests. Rut depth test focused on soil interaction where rut depth was measured related to number of passes. Machine dynamics were measured using standardized test track with focus on operator comfort. The project proved the potential of pendulum arm technology in off-road transportation. Automatic pendulum arm levelling, equalized ground pressure between wheels and improved operator comfort through reducing adverse vibrations and roll angles, simultaneously reducing dynamic forces transferred to the forest floor. Pendulum arm technology improves travel speed in adverse terrain, providing unparalleled side slope capability and enhanced productivity.