Dynamics of tractor lateral overturn on slopes under the influence of position disturbances (model development)

In order to investigate the effects of forward speed, ground slope and wheel–ground friction coefficient on lateral stability of tractor at the presence of position disturbances, a tractor dynamic model was developed. In this model two types of instability were considered: instability due to overturn and skid and for each case the stability index was determined. Different geometries and mass specifications of tractor MITSUBISHI-2501D were used to examine the model. According to the results of this model forward speed and ground slope had a reverse effect on all stability indexes. Moreover stability of this tractor was more affected by tractor skidding than overturning. Therefore to improve the overall stability of this tractor, preference should be on increasing the tractor stability index derived from skid dynamics of tractor.

► Instability models based on the dynamics of tractor lateral overturn were developed.
► Tractor stability indexes (TSI) were introduced.
► Specifications of tractor MITSUBISHI MT-2501 were used to test the models.
► Tractor forward speed and ground slope has a reverse effect on all TSI’s.
► For improving stability of this tractor, preference should be on increasing the TSIskid.