Grape harvester for gradients of up to 75 per cent

Based on the UT110evo tracked vehicle, the German company CH engineering GmbH has developed a harvesting machine for grapes. With a width of 1.32 metres, a length of 3.2 metres and a weight of 2.7 tonnes, it is light and compact enough to be transported on a tractor trailer. This means it can also be used in vineyards with narrow access roads. On arrival at its destination, a ramp on the side of the trailer folds out and the vehicle drives over it into vine row. A cable winch connects the vehicle to the trailer and supports it with a pull force of 1.5 tonnes, enabling it to overcome gradients of up to 75 per cent. In these extreme vineyard conditions, the driver can adjust the angle of his seat to the horizon to reduce the load on his body.

One of the engineers' key achievements was to develop a vehicle that can withstand the harsh conditions of the vineyard over the long term while minimising maintenance requirements for winegrowers.

The key to success: A carefully considered choice of components. Among other things, the engineers opted for E4.1 series energy chains to guide the hydraulic and electric cables from the vehicle to the harvesting head. The e-chains not only prevent the cables from kinking and jamming, but eliminate the risk of them becoming entangled in the vines as well. "They also help increase the longevity of the machine," says Jörg Ottersbach, Head of the e-chains Business Unit at igus. "Our energy chains are made of durable high-performance plastic that is corrosion-free and resistant to UV radiation and chemicals. This means they retain their mechanical specifications for years without the need for maintenance. "The engineers have also replaced classic metal rolling bearings. In the past, the ball bearings were so badly damaged by the grape must that, despite daily lubrication, they only lasted one season and then had to be replaced. This is why plastic bearing inserts are now also being used. They are corrosion-free, robust and do not require any additional lubrication, as solid lubricants integrated into the material allow for low-friction dry operation.