Pack Pullers has competed in the ASABE International Quarter-Scale Tractor Student Design Competition almost every year since the competition began in 1998. As the competition has evolved with more challenging design limitations, Pack Pullers’ tractors have also evolved with a multitude of changes in design.
Although Pack Pullers are based in the department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, the team consists of students from various departments throughout campus. This diversity prevents the team from designing a tractor from a sole vantage point – one of an agricultural engineer.
In order to accomplish all of the tasks that are associated with this competition, the team works vigorously throughout the academic year. During the fall semester, fundraising, designing and fabrication all take place. The beginning of the spring semester involves testing the quarter-scale tractor, making any necessary modifications based on testing results, writing and submitting the design report, and competing in the competition in Peoria, Illinois.
