Methodological basis for designing tillage cutters

Introduction. The paper considers the problem of improving the efficiency of self-propelled small-sized tillage cutters by adapting to changing environments, and in particular, to changing physical and mechanical properties of the soil. The aim of the research is to develop a methodology for designing self-propelled small-sized tillage cutters. Materials and Methods. The study used the basic provisions of the theory of mechanisms and machines and the design theory in mechanical engineering. The main attention is paid to the general scientific principle of adaptation in designing self-propelled small-sized tillage cutters. The authors understand this principle as the ability to automatically provide the required mode of machine operation in relation to the soil conditions. Results. The results presented in the article made it possible to propose a methodological approach to designing efficient self-propelled small-sized tillage cutters with an ability to adapt them to changing environments. The results of the study are a methodology for designing tillage cutters and a new technical solution for their adaptation to soil conditions. On the basis of patents for inventions and utility models, in which this method is implemented, there was developed a prototype tillage cutter, which automatically covers the full range of required operating modes. Discussion and Conclusion. Compared to the known tillage cutters, the proposed technical solution for the soil tillage cutter design allows improving the quality of soil tillage. This is due to the fact that the value of the kinematic index is in the required range, and the agrotechnical requirements for tillage are met.