Elevated Pivot Bracket for Wheelbarrow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wheelbarrow operators experience poor ergonomic posture when navigating uneven terrain due to the current design of wheelbarrows, which does not adequately address the challenges of uneven terrain, leading to potential dumping of loads and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
An elevated pivot bracket system for wheelbarrows, featuring spaced support legs with a bight configuration that positions the cargo carrying tray above the handles, and connection struts to alter load carrying characteristics, allowing for improved navigation in uneven terrain without tilting forward, thus reducing the risk of load dumping and enhancing operator posture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pivot bracket is positioned at a lower height, then the wheelbarrow structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the forward structure contacts obstacles more easily on uneven terrain causing load dumping
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot bracket is elevated vertically above the wheel axle, transitioning from a ground-level pivot to an elevated position. This vertical dimension change allows the cargo tray to clear obstacles on uneven terrain while maintaining structural simplicity through the elongate connection struts that link the elevated pivot bracket to the tray.
2Ease of operation
If the cargo carrying tray is positioned lower, then the wheelbarrow structure is simpler, but the operator experiences poor ergonomic posture when navigating uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The cargo tray is elevated vertically by positioning the pivot bracket above the wheel axle and using elongate connection struts. This vertical displacement improves operator ergonomics by raising the cargo center of gravity, reducing the bending moment on the operator's back, while the elongate struts maintain structural simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If elongate connection struts are used to connect the pivot bracket to the cargo tray, then the cargo tray can be positioned higher for better ergonomics, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate connection struts serve multiple functions: they connect the pivot bracket to the cargo tray, provide structural support, enable vertical elevation of the cargo tray for ergonomic benefits, and accommodate movements on uneven terrain. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A pivot bracket for a wheelbarrow having a bight with a ground-engaging portion positioned so as to enable a large pivoting angle of the wheelbarrow. In some preferred embodiments, the ground engaging portion is positioned forward of the wheel of the wheelbarrow and above the axis of rotation of the wheel.