FFT analysis of load data during field operations using a 75-kW agricultural tractor

Abstract

Analysis of load data during field operations is highly important for optimum design of power drivelines for agricultural tractor. Objective of the paper was to analyze field load data using FFT to determine magnitude of meaningful cyclic patterns. Rotary tillage, plowing, baling, and loader operations were selected as major field operations of agricultural tractor. An agricultural tractor with power measurement system was used. The tractor was equipped with strain-gauge sensors to measure torque of four driving axles and a PTO axle, speed sensors to measure rotational speed of the driving axles and an engine shaft, pressure sensors to measure pressure of hydraulic pumps, an I/O interface to acquire the sensor signals, and an embedded system to calculate power requirement. Load data of tractor major components such as driving axle part, PTO part, main hydraulic part, and auxiliary hydraulic part were measured and FFT analysis was conducted with the data. Results of the study would provide information on power utilization patterns and on better design of power drive lines.