Tension Detection of Mono Chain Ropeway System for Hilly Orchard

Abstract. To save in human time and energy for cargo transportation in hilly orchards, a mono chain ropeway system was proposed in this paper. Tension detection and controlling cable tension are important for the safe use of the axially moving chain ropeway system. With respect to different operation parameters, chain tension detection experiments were implemented. Strain gauges were attached to the chain links and the rotational frequency was obtained from the communication port of frequency converter. In the experiments designed by response surface methodology, the water containers represented the load cells. The results of variance analysis showed that the load and initial tension had significant impacts on the cable tension and the transport velocity had no influence statistically. Regression analysis was carried out to determine the relationship between the impact factors and the cable tension. A virtual prototype model was proposed to analyze the chain dynamics. The experimental results confirmed the validity of simulation model. This study is a foundation for the dynamic tension control of the axially moving chain ropeway system.