Designing the perforated element of a subsoiler plate: topological optimization

The development or modernization of tillage machinery aims to increase its service life and efficiency and reduce the negative impact on the soil. In order to increase the efficiency of agricultural machines, the author attempted to optimize the working element of a subsoler – its plate – through topological and parametric modeling. The subsoiler plate with the mass of 1.925 kg with maximum stresses 176.8 MPa was used as a base model. The author determined the plate zones having the least influence on the stiffness and strength of the implement structure. When designing the modernized plate, the following parameters were taken into account: safety factor on the ultimate strength – 1.5 to 2; maximum mass reduction – less than 50%, minimum reduction – more than 10%. The plate is manufactured by laser cutting from 09G2S or 30XGSA steel. The manufacturing process, strength and wear characteristics, and cost were considered to be not lower than the base variant. The algorithm developed in the SysML system modeling language helped systematize the process and establish functional and non-functional requirements and limitations. Using Autodesk Fusion 360 automatic design system, the author developed the rational geometric shape of the soil cultivation plate of the subsoiler with a mass of 1.585 kg and a maximum stresses of 169.5 MPa according to this algorithm. Topological optimization resulted in a 17.67% reduction in the part’s weight at the second iteration while maintaining strength and wear resistance characteristics. By determining the thickness of the element, the author established compliance with the safety factor requirement. Samples of subsoiler plates with thickness of 16 mm were made of 09G2S steel. To confirm the calculated strength characteristics it is necessary to carry out laboratory and field tests of the prototype of the lightweight design.

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