Analysis of the resistance frame of the equipment for opening and compartmentalizing watering furrows, using 3D finite elements

Abstract

The proposed article sets out the results of the finite element structural analysis for the open and compartmentalised watering furrow equipment (OCWFE). It uses a 3D structural model with 3D finite elements. The analysis set out in the article is made in order to determine the field of relative displacement and equivalent stress in the load-bearing structure of the OCWFE. The structural model is generated in CAD-CAM. For the structural analysis, it is necessary the CAE model, which is obtained from the CAD-CAM model, mainly by eliminating gaps and interferences, but also by the techniques of realizing the contact between the components of the assembly and a careful mashing of the structure. The structural model thus created is supported and loaded in accordance with the experimental results from the literature. The relative displacement field and the equivalent stress field within the resistance frame of the OCWFE is obtained following the linear static analysis. The field of relative displacements is used to assess the effects on the quality of the work performed. The equivalent stress field is used to estimate the safety factor of the structure, by reference to the flow stress of the material from which the structure is built.