Parameter Optimization and Testing of a Self-Propelled Combine Cabbage Harvester

Abstract

On account of a lack of suitable and specialized harvesting equipment for cabbage species and planting modes in China, in this study, a type of 4GCSD-1200 type cabbage harvester was designed to further optimize the working performance of the cabbage harvester. First, the structure and working principles of the harvester were introduced, and the cabbage harvesting process was analyzed. Based on the test method and theoretical analysis, a single-factor test was carried out on the main working parameters of the sample machine, the advancing speed, rotating speed of the pulling roller, rotating speed of the conveyor belt, and the cutter-head were taken as independent variables, and the qualifying rate of cabbage harvesting was taken as the response value. According to the Box–Behnken test design principles, a four-factor three-level response surface analysis was adopted to establish a mathematical model between all test factors and the qualifying rate of cabbage harvesting, then all test factors and their interaction effects were analyzed. The test results showed that the optimal working parameters of the harvester were: the advancing speed was 1.1 km/h, the rotating speed of the pulling roller was 90 r/min, the rotating speed of the conveyor belt was 205 r/min, and the rotating speed of the cutter-head was 395 r/min. The verification test results showed that the qualifying rate of cabbage harvesting was 96.3%, showing a good harvesting effect, with uniformly cut notches and a low damage rate. The test indicates that by optimizing the working parameters, the damage during the mechanized harvesting of cabbage can be reduced and the qualifying rate of harvesting can be improved; the working effect could, therefore, satisfy the requirements of market harvesting.