Desenvolvimento de dispositivo de proteção para eixo cardan em tratores agrícolas: estudo de caso com o New Holland TL5.80

Abstract

This study addresses the development of a protective device for the cardan shaft of agricultural tractors, motivated by the high rate of accidents involving moving parts and the need for compliance with NR-12 - Safety at Work in Machinery and Equipment and NR-31 - Occupational Safety and Health in Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Forest Exploitation, and Aquaculture safety standards. Initially, a contextualization of agricultural mechanization and the risks associated with cardan shafts was presented, followed by a literature review focusing on protective devices, interlocking systems, and national and international technical standards. The methodology included the application of the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method to identify and prioritize design requirements, as well as the use of a morphological matrix to define the most appropriate technical solution. In the development phase, computational modeling and structural analyses were carried out using the Finite Element Method, demonstrating safe behavior regarding stress and deformation levels. Subsequently, the prototype was manufactured using simple and low-cost processes. Experimental field tests confirmed the functional efficiency of the device, highlighting a reduction in installation, in addition to operational stability and compatibility with the tractor–implement system. Therefore, the developed device proved to be technically viable and capable of significantly contributing to accident reduction, promoting greater safety in rural environments.