An Analytical Model for Predicting Ground Pressure under a Rigid-Flexible Tracked Vehicle on Soft Ground

Ground pressure is a significant parameter for the mobility, tractive performance, and soil compaction. In this study, an analytical model for predicting ground pressure distribution under a rigid-flexible tracked vehicle on soft ground was developed. The model considered the primary design parameters of the tracked vehicle, soil characteristics, and soil shear. The ground pressure was not uniform, and its maximum values under the roadwheels were 90.20, 103.57, and 150.14 kPa. The ground pressure was inversely proportional to the ratio of the lengths of the flexible track and rigid grouser. An experiment was conducted to verify the analytical model. The maximum error between the measured and simulated results was smaller than 8%, thereby verifying the analytical model.