Study on the Motion Characteristics of Cylinders in Sandy Environments
Bicheng Hu
Transactions on Machine Design, Vol. 13, No. 2, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/tmd/2025/13/2/55-67
Link: https://www.dline.info/tmd/fulltext/v13n2/tmdv13n2_2.pdf
Abstract:
This paper aims to study the motion characteristics of cylinders in sandy environments, particularly focusing on
the distance required for a cylinder to roll and eventually stop in the sand. Based on observations from daily life
and theoretical assumptions, the experiment investigates the effects of factors such as the length, diameter,
material of the cylinder, and the size of sand particles on the rolling distance.
A simple device is designed to simulate the process of a cylinder rolling down a slope and in to the sand, and the
rolling distance of the cylinder in the sand is recorded. The experiment employs a controlled variable method to
test cylinders of different lengths and diameters under the same conditions (e.g., initial height, sand particle size).
The experimental data were recorded in tables and charts for intuitive analysis and comparison.
The rolling distance of a cylinder in the sand is positively correlated with both its length and diameter, as well
as its material. Specifically, as the length of the cylinder increases, the rolling distance also increases; similarly,
an increase in the diameter of the cylinder results in a corresponding rise in the rolling distance. Additionally,
the impact of the cylinderâ€™s material on the rolling distance was noted, but a detailed analysis was not
conducted due to experimental limitations.
This experiment not only confirms theoretical assumptions but also provides experimental evidence for
understanding the motion characteristics of objects in sandy environments. The results have practical
implications for designing vehicles for sandy environments and optimising emergency escape lanes. Future
research can further explore the effects of cylinder material and sand particle properties on rolling distance, as
well as analyse the forces acting on the cylinder during rolling.