Dynamic Analysis of Reciprocating Single-Blade Cutter Bars

In this study, a mathematical lumped mass model for a reciprocating single-blade cutter bar with a slider-crank mechanism was developed. The equation of motion was numerically integrated, and the influence of geometric, kinematic, dynamic, and biological parameters was investigated. The analysis demonstrated the uselessness of the crank disc inertia and pointed out that system imbalance is due more to the periodic instability of motion and torque than to the alternative inertia force of the blade. The analysis also showed the existence of an optimum running speed that minimizes instability, and thus imbalance, and that cutting resistance decreases as the running speed increases. It is therefore possible to find a functional optimization of the system with regard to vibratory phenomena and cutting quality.