Abstract
The article presents the results of theoretical, experimental and computational studies of the parameters of the drawbar of a transport and technological unit designed for transporting succulent feed in containers. The purpose of the study was to substantiate the rational length of the drawbar, taking into account the indicators of maneuverability and structural strength. In the course of experimental studies, three drawbar length options were considered: 1,6, 1,8, and 2,0 m. To determine the motion parameters, visual fixation of the trajectory of the unit using an unmanned aerial vehicle was used. It was found that the turning radius of the transport and technological unit was 7,55 m, and the displacement of the single-axle trailer relative to the center of rotation was 1,65 m. The results showed the possibility of performing a turning maneuver with the unit fitting into a given transport corridor. A finite element analysis was performed to assess the strength of the selected structure. The maximum equivalent Mises stress was 122,7 MPa, which corresponds to 59,3% of the yield strength of St3sp steel (207 MPa). The maximum displacement was 2,074 mm, and the safety margin varied from 1,25 to 15. The results confirm the sufficient strength, rigidity and operability of the structure. The rationality of using a 2.0 m long drawbar is substantiated. The data obtained allows us to recommend the selected design parameters for further design and improvement of the unit. Studies have shown that increasing the drawbar length to 2,0 m improves maneuvering conditions and reduces the likelihood of tractor wheels coming into contact with trailer elements when turning. The proposed approach can be used in the development of similar transport vehicles during the operation of the unit.