Development of a Trash Harvester for Mn/DOT-Phase 2

Jonathan Chaplin, Associate Professor
Emmanuel Magisson, Research Assistant

Funding Source

Minnesota Department of Transportation

Objective

The objective of this study is to construct and test the prototype design resulting from Phase 1. The trash harvester will be constructed in the BAE Machinery Systems laboratory. A commercial hillside tractor will be used as a power unit with an auxiliary hydraulic system driven by the PTO. The tractor chosen is a reversible drive/operator station and will be used in reverse mode. A threepoint hitch is mounted on both the front and rear of the tractor facilitating in implement attachment. The tractor was selected because of its stability on road-side slopes, maneuverability, and ROPS in the event of a rollover. The trash harvester will be tested on road-sides in the metro area. Safety precautions, such as impact absorbing bumpers on pilot vehicles will be observed while working with Mn/DOT on the project.

Project Status

In progress.