Theoretical analysis of the forces and torques acting on a tractor during ploughing

Abstract This paper presents a physical model of a four-wheeled tractor during ploughing. In this model, the wheels are approximated by ideal non-oscillating harmonic oscillators. The velocity of the tractor is considered to be constant, i.e., the tractor is in an equilibrium state of forces and torques. The equilibrium state is described by Euler’s laws of motion. Finally, an infinite approximation of the wheel stiffness is performed and an exact solution of the forces is presented.