Anwendung der Diskrete-Elemente-Methode zur Vorhersage von Kräften bei der Bodenbearbeitung

Application of the Discrete Element Method for the prediction of draft forces in soil.

In this paper, a numerical model for the prediction of soil-tool interaction forces, based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM) is presented. Three different types of particle-interaction laws for cohesionless, cohesive, and cemented soil are described. The shear strength of the soil is being calibrated by the use of simulated triaxial compression tests. Other parameters of the model are either chosen by experience or by the use of dimensionless numbers. Laboratory tests on a straight cutting blade, which is moved through the sample soil at constant speed, show good agreement with the results of the simulation. For this case, empirical formulas based on the passive earth pressure could be applied. Beyond that, the particle simulation can also be applied in the same manner to more complex tool geometries and trajectories. This is verified by measurements on a wheeled excavator that is working in crushed gravel.