COUPLED SIMULATION OF A TELEHANDLER FORKS HANDLING HYDRAULICS

The paper presents the development of the simulation model of the forks handling system of a telehandler. The study has been performed through coupled simulation of two software codes, AMESim for the 1D modelling of hydraulics and Virtual Lab for the mechanical modelling of the telescopic boom and forks. In context the advantage is that coupled simulation involves just one integrator with significant savings in computer time. Aim of the analysis is the development of a validated model capable of predicting system behaviour with adequate accuracy in different operating conditions. Following a kinematic analysis to evidence the characteristics of the mechanical system, such as the automatic forks levelling, forks lever ratio and overrunning load conditions, the detailed hydraulics modelling is discussed with emphasis on overcentre valves. The hydraulic model is interfaced with the mechanical one that based on forces consequent to load induced pressures evaluates in turn velocities and displacements. The complete model received experimental validation through significant boom and forks duty cycles. A fair agreement has been reached confronting experimental and predicted outcomes.