In the ever-evolving world of agriculture, innovation is crucial for enhancing the efficiency and safety of agricultural equipment. The FLODRAULIC group, through its business unit SACE, has recently collaborated with the Italian company Sgariboldi, renowned for designing and producing self-propelled feed mixers, to develop a revolutionary steering system: the MC30.
Objective: Agility and Nimbleness
The main goal of the MC30 project was to make one of Sgariboldi’s flagship feed mixers, with a 30 cubic meter capacity, particularly agile and nimble during steering operations. This is essential both during transfer phases and while working within agricultural enterprises.
The MC30, equipped with four-wheel drive, achieved this innovative result by introducing, for the first time on this type of vehicle, all three steering axles. This includes a “master” front axle operating with a conventional load-sensing hydraulic steering system, coordinating the intermediate and rear axles during steering phases.
Advanced Steering Technology
The MC30 steering system features an electromechanical selector that allows the operator to choose between the 2Wheel Steering mode (on-road, only front wheels) and 6Wheel Steering mode (off-road, all six wheels). The latter mode is activated for 90% of the vehicle’s working time, optimizing maneuverability in agricultural operations.
A dedicated software-controlled unit manages the entire system, collecting data from various angle and speed sensors positioned on all axles. This data is then communicated to EHI DANFOSS electronic modules, equipped with integrated intelligence, which coordinate the intermediate and rear axles to follow the movement of the front master axle.
Integrated Safety: SIL 2 Safety
A fundamental aspect of the MC30 project is safety. The system is designed to ensure maximum safety, reaching SIL 2 Safety level. This is possible thanks to a plant structure that includes redundant angle and speed sensors and a dedicated management unit. Additionally, electronic modules act as safety controllers, directly intervening on an electric cut-off valve in case of faults or malfunctions.
Prestigious Results in the Field
After a period of refining ideal reaction time parameters for operators, the MC30 project has achieved prestigious results. It represents a significant technological leap, improving not only the functional performance of the vehicle but also its safety.
In conclusion, the collaboration between FLODRAULIC, SACE, and Sgariboldi has produced a steering system that not only meets but exceeds industry expectations, demonstrating how technological innovation can drive the evolution of modern agriculture.
