Off-Road Terrain Characterization with the Bevameter for Predicting Tillage Forces

The relationship between the soil parameters measured during soil testing using the bevameter system and horizontal forces acting on a simple tillage tool were investigated. Field experiments were conducted on untilled, compacted soil and on recently tilled soil. On both soils, five sites were randomly chosen where bevameter and draft measurements were performed. The parameters measured were modulus of soil deformation, wet and dry bulk density, soil moisture content, tool operating depth, tool operating speed and horizontal draft.

A statistical analysis of data indicated that a mathematical model for predicting draft should include operating depth, dry bulk density and modulus of deformation.