Abstract
The relevance of the research was determined by necessity to increase the efficiency of machine and tractor units (MTUs) in both traction-powered and transport-technological operations, while ensuring operational safety. The objective of the research was to experimentally determine the effect of the mass of the technological module (TM) on the axle loads of a mobile energy vehicle (MEV) of the “Autotractor” during aggregation with a rear-mounted three-point hitch. The research addressed the issue of stability and load distribution in MTUs, particularly those with MEVs of the “Autotractor” based on high-mobility truck platforms. The MEV-115 “Autotractor”, developed at the Institute of Mechanics and Automation of Agro-Industrial Production of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine, was introduced. This vehicle featured several innovative design solutions, including a centralised tyre pressure control system, a hydraulic system, a frame-based TM mounting system, and a specially designed rear three-point hitch. The hitch structure enabled aggregation with TMs weighing up to 2 tonnes. Its compact design allowed for hassle-free mounting of the TM onto the vehicle frame without disassembling the hitch. Experimental research using strain gauge scales was carried out to verify theoretical calculations on the distribution of axle loads in the MEV depending on the weight and centre of mass of the TM. Critical TM parameters were established for safe operation: the distance from the TM’s centre of mass to the rear axle (0-4 m) and the TM weight (6.39-18.7 kN). TM configurations ensuring balanced axle loads were also defined, eliminating parasitic power circulation between the axles of the MEV-115 “Autotractor”. The minimum front axle load necessary to maintain steerability during transport operations was determined to be at least 20% of the total MTU weight. The results confirmed the validity of the theoretical models and demonstrated the effectiveness of the approach. The findings may be applied to enhance MEV design and optimise their use in agricultural production