Reconstruction of geometrical structure of claw of Marmota and research of soil-claw interaction

• Published in: Powder technology 2024-12, Vol.448, p.120345, Article 120345
• Main Authors: Li, Xiangyu, Wang, Zhaojie, Gu, Tianlong, Qiu, Yuntao, Hu, Bin, Li, Junwei
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Marmota claw; Reconstruction of geometrical structure; Rocky DEM; Soil disturbance
• ISSN: 0032-5910
• DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2024.120345

The Himalayan marmot can excavate soil efficiently, and the geometric structure of its claw and its movement during excavation can provide a reference for the design of soil tillage components. In this paper, the geometric model of the claw is reconstructed using reverse engineering methods, and its contour curves are fitted and curvature analyzed. It is found that the marmot's claw can break the soil with high efficiency and excellent sliding-cutting action. The interaction relationship between the soil and claw was simulated using the discrete element method, and the effects of working depth and rake angle on the horizontal force, soil disturbance area, and soil particle velocity were analyzed. The results showed that the horizontal force increased with the increase of working depth, and first increased and then decreased with the increase of rake angle. The optimal working effect was achieved when the rake angle was 75°. [Display omitted] •Use reverse engineering methods to reconstruct the geometric model of the claw.•Clarified the efficient soil cutting principle of marmot claws.•Use discrete element method to study the interaction between soil-claw.