The
Illini Pullers brought home the biggest prize from the 12th annual ASABE ¼-scale tractor student design competition. The rest of the top five teams were, in descending order: Kansas State University, Purdue University, Iowa State University, and Texas A&M.
Each of the 24 student teams designed, built, and demonstrated a utility or recreational pulling tractor. A panel of industry experts judged for innovation, maneuverability, sound level, serviceability, ergonomics, safety and manufacturability, and teams then demonstrated performance in a multi-stage tractor pull using a progressive sled.
Submissions included a range of configurations including from one to five engines, driving belts, chains, continuously-variable transmissions, and hydraulics, and two and four-wheel drive tractors.
A strong group of ag industry companies and organizations support the contest with their sponsorship. These include: AGCO, Bridgestone/Firestone, Briggs & Stratton, Case, Caterpillar, Deere & Company, Kubota, New Holland, and SolidWorks. Additional support is provided by Campbell Scientific, Inc., Central City Scale, Claas Omaha, igus Inc., Kelly Sauder Rupiper Equipment, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, MacDon
Industries, Miller Electric Manufacturing, Star Equipment and Sukup Manufacturing.
A complete list of awards will be posted at
www.asabe.org when available.
