Power model of arc-track-type flexible holding and conveying device of sugarcane harvester

There are some defects in no-track flexible holding and conveying device, such as high chains stretch force and power consumption. So, the arc-track-type flexible holding and conveying device of sugarcane harvester was researched. Based on mechanics analysis of the holding and conveying chains, the power model of the device was built, and was verified by the tests. The power of the device related to stretching force of chains, conveying distance, holding force, track space, the quantity of sugarcane stalks, forward velocity and conveying speed, and so on. The power consumption was directly proportional to the stretching force of chains and conveying speed. The effects of sugarcane planting density and forward velocity on the power were not obvious. The study provides foundation for design of holding and conveying device of sugarcane harvester.