DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2022.13
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/2564
Date of Award
3-2022
Degree Name
MS in Agriculture - BioResource and Agriculture Systems
Department/Program
Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering
College
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences
Advisor
Greg Schwartz
Advisor Department
Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering
Advisor College
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences
Abstract
To entice a small-scale hay producer to purchase equipment that will improve their hay hauling operation, a more cost effective and more universal solution must be developed. The objectives of this project are to develop and test a prototype large round bale handler. The prototype was built to industry standards, using modern electronic controls and the latest design and fabrication methods. The prototype makes use of an existing trailer and by doing so can be a less expensive method of hauling hay when compared to other equipment currently on the market. While the combination of the prototype bale handler and new equipment trailer is similar in price to a stand alone round bale handler, a small-scale hay producer might be more likely to purchase the combination of the bale handler and trailer because the trailer can be used for many tasks throughout the year.