Modeling the torque and power requirements of traction tires of horticultural tractors using dimensional analysis

The development of computational tools will promote the design and use of more energy-efficient tires. Two mathematical equations were developed by dimensional analysis to predict the torque and power requirements at zero net traction for traction tires (6.5-12; 7.00-18) on a hard surface. Some structural and working parameters of tire that affect the torque requirement, such as tire size, tire deflection, tire load, and rolling radius, were considered for the analysis. Experiments were conducted to study the effect of different wheel sizes and system parameters on torque and energy consumed per unit distance traveled in a soil bin. The ratio of tire width over tire diameter and the ratio of tire deflection over tire section height were found to be dimensionless terms radically controlling the torque and energy requirements of tires. The prediction equation closely followed the experimental results.