Three-Dimensional Dynamic Simulation Analysis of Snow Removal Characteristics of Rotary Equipment

Abstract

In this paper, a method for three-dimensional dynamic simulation analysis of rotary snow removing machines is constructed to contribute to optimum design and control of the machines. The simulation analysis method is based on the Distinct Element Method, which is suitable for simulation of the dynamic behavior of discontinuous objects like snow. The key part in the simulation analysis is contact judgment between snow and rotary equipment and described in detail. As a first step to evaluate the validity of the constructed method, motion characteristics of snow thrown from a shooter into the air were analyzed and compared with experimental results. The simulation results showed a similar tendency to the experimental ones. Moreover, as snow removal characteristics, we analyzed and discuss not only the motion characteristics of the snow in the process of snow removal but also the resistance torque on the equipment such as auger from the snow. These results demonstrate the practical usefulness of the constructed method.