Experimental methodoly for optimization of telehandlers for AUSA

Telehandlers are all-terrain mobile machinery that can be used to reliably undertake tasks at high elevations in the construction and agricultural sectors. They are designed to transport and lift loads of material in high areas. They consist of a moving, telescopic arm at the end of which (boom) the operator can attach accessories such as buckets or forks of different types. Loads are moved through a horizontal scope and elevated vertically. This is a very compact machine (it combines the functions of a digger and a forklift truck) that can work in very small, complicated places, as it is highly manoeuvrable and versatile.

An energy audit was undertaken of the hydraulic drive system for the lifting and tilting mechanisms, and the life expectancy of hydraulic components was calculated (useful life and residual life of hydraulic components that are subject to fatigue). Low performance sections were identified and optimised to contribute to minimising non-productive energy consumption. Finally, the technical specifications of the most significant hydraulic components were defined.

As a scientific and technological base, LABSON, in collaboration with external entities ROQCAR (Tona) and IBHER (Zaragoza), has introduced an experimental methodology in which the telehandlers and their components are subjected to numerous sets of mobile tests in the field. The aim of the field tests is to reproduce the real conditions of use or some very specific phenomenon to study separately in detail. At the same time, an analysis and monitoring system has been created that complements the full chain of sensors. This system enables large quantities of data to be used and processed to make the best decisions and understand how to improve product quality, reduce incidents and faults, cut costs and increase productivity (functioning time of the machinery).