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Evaluation of the Stability Behavior of an Agricultural Unmanned Ground Vehicle

Author

Listed:
  • Valda Rondelli

    (Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Universtity of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy)

  • Enrico Capacci

    (Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Universtity of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy)

  • Bruno Franceschetti

    (Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Universtity of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy)

Abstract

Precision farming is the newest agricultural approach in countries with highly mechanized field operations, and the role of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in smart farming is becoming increasingly prominent. This work aimed to evaluate the stability of the DEDALO UGV developed by the University of BOLOGNA for precision orchard and vineyard management. The driving part of the machine is somewhat peculiar; it moves autonomously in the field combined with a tank to store water and pesticide mixture for crop protection, with an additional structure to carry agricultural implements. The study aimed to evaluate the stability of the agricultural unladen UGV, and mulcher and sprayer mounted configurations. In the case of the sprayer, the stability behavior was evaluated with an empty and full tank. The machine, in terms of stability, was studied both laterally and longitudinally. A theoretical model was developed based on the upstream side forces measured during experimental tipping tests. The results of the experimental data were compared with the theoretical predicted results to validate the model. In the lateral test, the average value of the limit stability angle was 48 degrees, while in the longitudinal test, it was 49 degrees. The results of the model were statistically correlative (R 2 > 95) and denoted that the most stable condition occurred in the case of the UGV fitted with the mulcher in the longitudinal tipping position (56 degrees), while the most unstable condition was the case of the unladen UGV in the longitudinal tipping position (40 degrees). Although the stability problem is not directly connected with the operator, as these machines do not require a driver, the lack of stability can lead to the UGV overturning with consequent risks for the surrounding environment and damage to the UGV body.

Suggested Citation

  • Valda Rondelli & Enrico Capacci & Bruno Franceschetti, 2022. "Evaluation of the Stability Behavior of an Agricultural Unmanned Ground Vehicle," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(23), pages 1-13, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:23:p:15561-:d:981255
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Binswanger, Hans, 1986. "Agricultural Mechanization: A Comparative Historical Perspective," The World Bank Research Observer, World Bank, vol. 1(1), pages 27-56, January.
    2. Daniele Sarri & Stefania Lombardo & Andrea Pagliai & Carolina Perna & Riccardo Lisci & Valentina De Pascale & Marco Rimediotti & Guido Cencini & Marco Vieri, 2020. "Smart Farming Introduction in Wine Farms: A Systematic Review and a New Proposal," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(17), pages 1-26, September.
    3. Valda Rondelli & Bruno Franceschetti & Dario Mengoli, 2022. "A Review of Current and Historical Research Contributions to the Development of Ground Autonomous Vehicles for Agriculture," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(15), pages 1-16, July.
    4. Enrico Capacci & Bruno Franceschetti & Andrew Guzzomi & Valda Rondelli, 2021. "Energy Absorption in Actual Tractor Rollovers with Different Tire Configurations," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(12), pages 1-16, June.
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    1. Amine Saddik & Rachid Latif & Abedallah Zaid Abualkishik & Abdelhafid El Ouardi & Mohamed Elhoseny, 2023. "Sustainable Yield Prediction in Agricultural Areas Based on Fruit Counting Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-14, February.

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