Problem

Design a lightweight, low-cost hand truck that converts simply into a platform truck (see concept sketch). In platform mode the structure need not have a handle. In either mode, the truck must carry a 300 lb load distributed over either the entire nose plate or the full width of the platform and the length h between the wheel axles. Key specifications:

• Variable height (H) handle ranging from 40 to 50 in.
• Minimum length h will be 28 in.
• Width of the load-bearing surfaces (noseplate and platform) will be 20 in.
• Nose plate will extend no less than 10 in.
• Design for mild impact: Assume the 300 lb load drops from a height of zero above the truck (see Hibbeler (1997), § 14.4, Eq. 14.34 in particular).
• As a precaution against material yielding, set the factor of safety (FS) to 1.3.
• Select wheels with rubber-like tires to prevent marring floors, yet prevent slipping. The upper set of wheels must swivel to permit turning in cart mode.

Design objective

The design objectives are light weight and minimum cost in that order. Hence a figure of merit equal to the weight of the truck in pounds multiplied by the cost in dollars is to be reported. Costs are to be determined using nominal retail prices.

Special concerns

• Adjustment of the handle height should be simple, safe and easy to do.
• The nose plate should not mar the floor when the truck is resting upright.

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 0633602. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recomendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation (NSF).

© Copyright 1995-2024 — All rights reserved.
Pennsylvania State University
Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics
Send comments about this site to: webmaster@esm.psu.edu

Penn State is committed to affirmative action,
equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

This publication is available on alternative media on request.