Development of a combine with increased road speed The 40 kph driveline of the new LEXION 750 TERRA TRAC

摘要

The demand for agricultural machines with increased road speed by contractors is evident. The success of self-propelled forage harvesters with a maximum speed of 40 kph is a clear indicator that this technology meets the need of modern contractors. Being flexible on the road enables the contractor to serve more customers, even if the field is further away. The reduction of time spent on the road increases the available time for harvesting, and therefore maximises the profit. To serve this need CLAAS began to develop a technology to achieve high road speed for combine harvester. The changes to fulfil the requirements for fast, save and comfortable driving on road should not limit the off road abilities of the combine harvester. A main challenge is to determine the needed changes to the combine's concept. This includes field test programs as well as simulation tools. The results of these testing are incorporated in a new design with major changes on various components. The main focus is a new driveline and a redesigned undercarriage; in addition the increased forces/dynamics on the combine structure lead to various changes all through the machine.