Electromechanical Variator

grabcad

Agriculture robotics is expected to revolutionise farming in the near future due to increasing population pressure and demand for healthier food. However, battery capacity has been an obstacle for widespread adoption. To overcome this, I propose using internal combustion engines (ICEs) for their affordability, availability, and efficiency. Examples of innovative solutions include remote control lawnmowers that use a gasoline engine to spin a generator and charge a small battery, and autonomous tractors with differential-controlled movement through a hydraulic system powered by a diesel engine. My personal research led me to the Baja SAE challenge forum where I discovered a "Gaged" CVT model that inspired me to redesign it into an Electromechanical Variator prototype, using 3D printable parts for cost optimization. This design aims to integrate ICEs into agricultural robotic platforms, acknowledging that electric motors may ultimately take over in the long run.