Finite element analysis and topology optimization design of lightweight Panax Notoginseng transplanting machine frame

Panax Notoginseng is one of the most extensively cultivated and utilized bulk medicinal materials in China，and Yunnan Province is the main producing area for Panax Notoginseng in the country. Due to the influence of terrain and agronomic requirements，traditional agricultural machinery faces difficulties in entering the planting areas for operation，resulting in the current manual operation of Panax Notoginseng transplantation. Therefore，the development of a Panax Notoginseng transplanting machine is crucial for promoting the industrialization of Panax Notoginseng. As the crucial load-bearing structure of the transplanting machine，the frame significantly affects the overall performance of the vehicle. This paper focuses on the structural analysis of the transplanting machine frame，aiming to improve the performance of the frame and the entire vehicle，and provide theoretical basis for frame structural design. A three-dimensional model of the frame is established using SolidWorks software and imported into ANSYS software for static finite element analysis. After determining the relative error range between the stress values obtained from static electrical tests and experimental stress values，the dynamic loading performance of the frame under different working conditions and the modal vibration deformation analysis of the first eight modes are conducted. The analysis results indicate that the frame exhibits good strength performance，but significant deformation occurs at the seat position，indicating insufficient stiffness of the structure. Topology optimization is employed to optimize the frame design，aiming to reduce frame deformation while ensuring reasonable stress distribution. By altering the arrangement of diagonal brace brackets，the goal of reducing deformation is achieved. According to the optimization design results，the total mass of the frame increases by 8.739%，while the deformation is reduced by 88.268%，and the maximum stress is decreased by 11.693%. The improved frame exhibits reduced maximum stress and significantly improved deformation，demonstrating the applicability of finite element method and topology optimization technology in guiding the structural design of transplanting machine frames.