Title: Validation of an agricultural tractor MBS model

Authors: T. J. Lehtonen

Addresses: Laboratory of Automotive Engineering, Helsinki University of Technology, PO Box 4300, FIN-02015 HUT, Finland

Abstract: This paper describes an MBS (Multibody System) model of an agricultural tractor and its validation using experimental measurements on a test track. The MBS model was built using commercial MSC.ADAMS (Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems) software from the MSC Company. Experimental testing and simulation were done on special test tracks suitable for tractors. This paper describes the track and the tractor model. The main focus is on the tyre model, which has the greatest influence on the accuracy of the model. Simulation and measurement results on the test track with two velocities and two loads are presented. Validation of the model is based on acceleration results. Future research activities are presented.

Keywords: multi-body systems; simulation; agricultural tractors; tyre modelling; model validation; multi-body system modelling.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHVS.2005.005667

International Journal of Heavy Vehicle Systems, 2005 Vol.12 No.1, pp.16 - 27

Published online: 15 Nov 2004 *

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