July / August, 2004

The Quarter-Scale Tractor Student Design Competition is one of the most intense and rewarding experiences that biosystems engineering students can experience at MSU. The national competition was established in 1998 by ASAE, The Society for Engineering in Agricultural, Food, and Biological Systems. The main judging categories include: a written design report; a team presentation; safety, serviceability, and manufacturability; and maneuverability. The highlight of the event is the overall performance competition where students perform a multi-stage tractor pull using a progressive sled.

Through involvement in the competition, students gain practical experience in the design of drive train systems, tractor performance, manufacturing processes, analysis of tractive forces, weight transfer, strength of materials, and ergonomics. It has given thousands of students hands-on, real-world engineering experience that will help them in upcoming courses and prepare them for future careers. The competition also provides students and opportunity to meet corporate sponsors such as AGCO Corp., Bridgestone/Firestone, Briggs & Stratton Corp., CLAAS, CNG, Caterpillar, Deere & Company, The Grasshopper Company, Kubota, and New Holland North America.

2004 quarter scale tractor team.

Is this a tractor?

Brake systems - let's hope they work.

Practice pull in Leslie Michigan.

Teeter-totter skill contest, this is a fun event at the competition.

Practice pull, wheel spinners and all.

Maneuvering contest.

Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering
Michigan State University
A.W. Farrall Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824-1323
(517) 355-4720

Questions or comments contact: webmaster

Past Newsletters | BAE Home | MSU Home

August 19, 2004