Simulation Analysis and Test of Edem-Based Twin Spiral Propeller for Mudflat Aquaculture

Abstract

Aiming at the problems of coastal ecological damage and low yield of mudflat aquaculture caused by the invasion of M. alterniflora, in order to improve the operational efficiency of mudflat wet and soft ground, and to promote the ecological balance and the development of coastal agriculture, a walking device with twin spiral propellers for muddy wet and soft ground was designed. Using EDEM simulation software to simulate and analyze, the discrete element model of muddy soil particles is established to analyze the interaction mechanism with the spiral propeller and the operation propulsion effect, and it is concluded that the spiral propeller will not produce congestion phenomenon during the operation; data are collected through several simulation tests, and the optimal parameter design of the spiral propeller structure is derived from the response surface analysis, and the spiral propeller is designed to operate at a speed of 2.416 mph in the simulation with the optimal parameter of structural design. The field test shows that the optimal height of the spiral blades is 50 mm, the total length of the drum is 2,970 mm, the helix angle of lift is 30 °, the pitch is 453 mm, and the propelling speed is 2.36 m/s. The data collected through several simulation tests are used to find the optimal parameter design of the spiral propeller structure, and the simulation speed of the spiral propeller in the optimal structural design parameter is 2.416 m/s.