Use of finite element method in agricultural machinery and application examples

Finite Element Method (FEM) is one of the engineering analysis methods that was developed to create mathematical solutions and has become widespread with the advent of computers. FEM is a method that can simulate the changes that different physical effects on material through numerical analysis. With the increase in computer processing speed and capacity, more effective and accurate solutions can be achieved. Agricultural machinery works in diverse environments under dynamic loads under forces acting in multiple directions. In designed machines, analyses can be performed without prototypes or physical manufacturing, thanks to simulations created with computer software. In this study, research on agricultural machinery is examined and reviewed. In the studies carried out with agricultural machinery, the strength of tillage machines, the effect of soil-share interaction on soil profile and share deformation, the strength of the harvester and the fertilizer scraper, chassis strength of tractor protective equipment and agricultural carts, strength of fertilizer mixing shaft and ergonomic solutions are presented. Various modelling and simulation approaches have been employed in these studies. By analyzing different operational conditions, results closer to real experimental data have been obtained using the Finite Element Method in agricultural machinery.