Assessment of the efficiency of tractor transmissions using acceleration tests

A theoretical model that could be useful for investigating the performance of ground vehicles using acceleration tests was developed. The model takes into account all of the forces acting on a moving vehicle to give a description of its kinematics: the rolling friction of the propulsion devices, their slip on the soil, aerodynamic resistance, road slope and traction developed by the engine. In the methodology of applying the model, the experimental data collected during acceleration tests on a flat and sloping road from a standing start to reach a given distance or a stated speed are used to determine the average efficiency of the transmission of three tractors with different equipment (a mechanical full-powershift drive and two different hydro-mechanical continuously-variable ratio transmissions – CVT). The same model was also used to predict tractor performance during other acceleration tests. The results of the CVT tests suggest that there probably is an influence of the transmission architecture that takes precedence over the general type of the transmission.

► A theoretical model for investigating vehicle performance is presented.
► It uses acceleration tests to quantify tractor transmission efficiency.
► Using this model to benchmark vehicles requires no disassembly or detail drawings.
► Tested CVTs had different performance, not necessarily better than power-splits.
► Transmission architecture appeared to influence performance more than transmission type.