Optimization design of intelligent seat console of high-power tractor based on genetic algorithm

According to the least energy principle, the factors of comfort of the cab were defined in this study. One of them was the optimum layout of the seat. Compared with the cab of typical products, intelligent seat was the best way to enhance the comfort of the cab during the period of working in the field. The seat console was divided into four sections: digital instrument panel, button zone for work, button zone for driving and intelligent lever. According to the design criterion and typical products, the weights among them were calculated by analytic hierarchy process (0.2878, 0.2415, 0.3871 and 0.0836). The constraint conditions were deduced according to the design criterion and dimensions of parts themselves. The objective function was deduced according to the least energy principle and the weight of each part mentioned before by establishing the coordinate system. For obtaining the optimization solutions, genetic algorithm is a good way to solve this complex problem. After generating, the optimum solution was obtained. All the parts, especially the intelligent lever, were mounted on simulation. To verify the rationality of this optimum design, ergonomics scores were calculated to evaluate the man-machine coordination degree with the manikins (18-60 years old Chinese man body models). After simulation, scores of RULA of tractor drivers were under 2. Results showed that this optimum design could deduce the fatigue of the tractor drivers during the period of working in the tractor cab. It also showed that a compact layout could reduce labor intensity of tractor drivers and increase the control precision of the farm implements.