Controlling machine-soil interactions
Research & Development & Engineering
Tests
Already available with existing resources
Tire performance qualification tests
Test operator
Efficiency testing of agricultural tires and machinery (traction, soil compaction)
Several test protocols have been developed to characterize the various machine-tyre-soil interactions and their impact on the environment.
One example is the CLI and PLI performance indexes, defined using two methods and calculated from measurements taken on the “Monoroue” device:
- CLI: Carry Low Index - Load-carrying losses (the lower the CLI criterion, the better the tire's performance)
- PLI Index: Pull Loss Index (the lower the PLI criterion, the better the tire's performance)
These tests are part of the ENTAM network, which aims to provide standardized performance test protocols/methods.
Tire deformation tests
The team also has a range of sensors (contact and non-contact) for fine characterization of tire deformations in-situ under different test conditions (torque, applied load, inflation pressure, ground bearing capacity, etc.).
The “tire-sensor” device
Other quantifiable quantities
3D measurement of a tire footprint using a 3D telemeter
Dynamic effort mapping using the OCPS device
OCPS scarifier tool
The OCPS device measures resistance to forward movement on scarifier blades and continuously records effort at 4 different horizons.
Below is an example of a plot mapped after the tool has been used.
Dynamic radar mapping using SoilExplorer device
AgroTechnoPôle’s TSCF unit is equipped with the SoilXplorer soil characterization tool.
SoilXplorer tool and soil conductivity measurement
Available by the end of 2024 with new resources in the pipeline
Characterization of performance (tires/tracks, drive chains, machine/soil interaction) under different soil conditions
(large soil tanks (length 130 m x width 30 m) differentiated by their respective clay content) on a 40 cm deep horizon.
