Optimization of the parameters of compacting rollers of the forest planter for soils of Central Russia based on discrete-element modelling

The relevance of designing compacting rollers for forest planters is due to the lack of a universal methodology for selecting their parameters for specific soil and climatic conditions, which leads to inoptimal operating modes that reduce seedling survival and increase energy consumption. The purpose of the research was to develop a methodology for parametric analysis and optimization of the compaction roller system based on discrete-element modeling (DEM). For this purpose, a computer modeling method was used using the developed specialized software package that takes into account the interaction of soil particles with each other and with the surface of the rollers. The optimal parameter values have been revealed by a series of computational experiments for typical forest soils of Central Russia: a gap between the rollers of 0.09-0.11 m ensures soil density in the furrow of 1.59 g/cm3; a roller inclination angle of 15-20° forms a bump height above the furrow of 20-21 mm; a longitudinal displacement of the inclined roller by -0.1 m relative to the support roller reduces the resistance force to movement to 688 H. The practical result is the creation of a tool for scientifically based design of working bodies, the implementation of which will improve the quality of forest reforestation while reducing operating costs.