Abstract
COMPUTER SIMULATION OF OPTIMIZATION MODELS FOR THE OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF LAWNMOWER DURING CUTTING ACTION
Tobinson A. Briggs* and Shadrack Mathew Uzoma
ABSTRACT
A computer simulation employed in an attempt to enhance the mathematical optimization models being developed to improved Lawnmower blade geometry for the attainment of high cutting efficiency during cutting action, the optimal blade thickness and blade width. The computational analysis of the algorithmic development confirmed blade angle of wrap of 3 to 40 should be the best design consideration. This angular range resulted in the best optimal values in the design for optimal blade width and thickness. The results obtained for theoretical power, optimal power, and electrical power to drive the cutting blades were also challenging and tempting. The best cutting efficiency is achievable when the number of blades are two, and the blade angle of wrap around the rotor shaft is 40. The improvement in cutting efficiency decreases as the number of blades increase. Geometrically, the cutting forces resulted in blade angle of cut of 450. The process avoids shock loading of the blades during cutting action. Hence the cutting forces are gradually taken up with less severe bending and twisting motion.
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