Projeto e construção de um mecanismo agrícola de tração por esteiras

Abstract

With the increasing demand for efficient solutions in agriculture, automation has become essential to enhance productivity and reduce labor dependency. Among the main technical challenges in this process, the traction system stands out, especially on uneven or low-cohesion terrains. Track-based traction mechanisms have proven advantageous by providing greater stability, traction, and reduced soil compaction. Given this scenario, this work presents the development of a track-based traction mechanism for agricultural applications, designed to be affordable, easily replicable, and suitable for automated systems. The project was developed in three stages: (1) informational design, involving technical and functional requirements; (2) conceptual design, with the generation and analysis of alternatives; and (3) detailed design, including 3D modeling, material selection, and manufacturing and assembly processes. The constructed mechanism features a carbon steel chassis, PLA-printed structural components, a stepper motor-driven transmission system, and electronic control via an Arduino microcontroller. Operation is conducted through a mobile device using G-code commands via Universal G-code Sender (UGS) software. The mechanism achieved a maximum displacement speed of 0.172 m/s.