Virtual and Physical Prototyping of a Driver’s Cab for a Self-Propelled Agricultural Machine
摘要
Roll Over Protection Structures (ROPS) are conceived to provide passive protection for operators of heavy, self-propelled machinery in the event of a rollover. The verification of ROPS requires the application of a sequence of loads and the subsequent analysis of any resulting permanent deformations, that must guarantee access by the operator to an adequate living space (clearance zone). In many instances, the construction of structural components necessitates the iterative development of multiple physical prototypes. The utilization of computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element analysis (FEA) enables the visualization of the product and the evaluation of the mechanical resistance of the structure, even prior to the manufacturing and testing. This results in a significant reduction in the costs associated with the certification of the structure and the creation of physical prototypes. The aim of this study is to develop, by means of virtual prototyping tools, a driver’s cab for a self-propelled hazelnut harvester that complies with the OECD Code 4 standard for the approval of protective structures. Design for manufacturing and assembly criteria have been used for the 3D CAD modeling of the sheet metal assembly. Non-linear structural analysis was set up to simulate crushing tests, considering the elastic-plastic behavior of the material. Results and visualization of stresses and displacements show that the protection structure passes all acceptance conditions according to regulations. The designed driver’s cab has become an optional feature that can be installed on these vehicles, at the customer’s choice in place of the ROPS.