Embedded Files
Finite Element Analysis in Solidworks:
Our project was very simulation intensive to predict the strength of our design under realistic worst-case scenario loading conditions. For an overview of our analysis, we invite you to look at the "Docs" section of the website. There you can read our poster for an analysis overview. For in-depth, please look at our final paper. The final paper also includes any hand calculations we used to verify the validity of the computer simulations.
Redesign of the ATC body:
The lip design created length problems for the former ATC. The lip was also very structurally important. The lip, along with the 1700lbs of water in the tub, helped support the 500lbs of dolphin. The lip is a curved shape, and curved shapes are by nature strong. However, the lip was also one of the only elements of the ATC which could be removed or shortened while still maintaining the internal dimensions of the ATC, an important functional requirement. We opted to redesign the lip to be shorter, necessitating a new scaffold clamp design as well.
Every component of the new ATC design is made with 316 stainless steel to reduce the risk of corrosion in salty environments and to avoid galvanic corrosion. Stainless steel's strength allows the design to be as thin while remaining strong enough to withstand loading conditions.The ATC body (1/8" thick tub, trusses, support beams) is welded together using fillet welds and 316 steel filler metals, using the gas tungsten arc welding method. The new ATC length is just below the width of the Boeing C-40 doorway. The new ATC weighs ~940 lbs.
Former ATC Design:
New ATC Design:
Scaffold Clamp:
Like the old clamp, the new clamp can side over the wall surface from side-to-side. The clamp has a rotating hinge allowing easy removal from the wall. A set screw (not pictured right, sorry) goes through the C of the clamp and secures the clamp in position. The set screw also prevents the hinge from rotating while the scaffold is hanging from the wall’s lip.
Tie-Down Hook Mounts:
The new design ensures replaceability of the new tie-down hooks. The new tie-down hooks are able to rotate up and down, which helps shorten the overall length of the new ATC design. These hooks are screwed onto a 316 steel plate, which is thru-bolted onto two C-channels. These C-channels are welded onto the surface of the ⅛” thick 316 steel ATC body.
Caster Mounts:
Each set of casters is now mounted to two C-channels. These C-channels are welded onto the bottom support beams. The casters are bolted onto the bottom of the C-channels using thru-hole bolts.
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