This Phase I effort will investigate the feasibility of basic concepts for a hillside straddle tractor. A true straddle tractor for tall crops on hillsides does not currently exist. This straddle tractor, the Smart Mountain Mule (SMM), will be designed as a tool for Christmas tree farms in hilly terrain. The ultimate goal of the researchers (through Phase II and beyond) is to design and build a safe tractor with four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and a smart tilting system, that is able to tilt its center of gravity to negotiate hillsides and straddle crops such as Christmas trees. The Phase I goal is to prepare preliminary designs for certain key subsystems, i.e. the steering and tilting systems, to build a scale model prototype of the tractor, and to perform a thorough safety analysis. The PI and researchers at TRDC will work with consultants to create a computer simulation of the tilting and steering systems of the mountain tractor. TheApplications:The development of a 'smart" straddle tractor that can safely negotiate steep slopes would be an invaluable asset to Christmas tree farrners. The Christmas tree industry in North Carolina alone exceeds 5100 million annually A smart hillside tractor could ultimately be adapted for use in a wide range of farming areas, including: orchards. grapes, strawberries, cashews, coffee and more. Such a vehicle also could benefit load maintenance operations in mountainous areas. The microprocessorbased intelligent hydraulic control system could find applications in many other types of farm equipment and implements.
