Resumen de Design and Optimization of a Chassis for an Air-Assisted Sprayer with Two Fans Using the Finite Element Method
Hugo Malón Litago, F.J. Garcia Ramos, M. Vidal, A. Bone
The use of plant protection products such as pesticides to protect crops against attacks by fungi, insects and weeds is a common agricultural practice. The affected areas have to be treated uniformly and with the appropriate concentration. This is achieved by the use of agricultural machinery such as air-assisted sprayers. The most common air-assisted sprayers have only one fan on the rear. This implies that the airflow generated around the machine is not symmetrical. Consequently, it is not possible to ensure the same quality of treatment for all trees. The installation of a second fan and the increase in tank capacity in the machines have resulted in machines with greater dimensions. These machines have to support higher loads compared to traditional air-assisted sprayers. The development of these new designs of air-assisted sprayers requires optimization of their chassis in order to ensure the proper operation of these agricultural implements. The main objective of this study is the design and optimization of a chassis for an air-assisted sprayer equipped with a 4000 l tank and two axial fans.
