Steel Handle Shovel Coupling Assembly Stress Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steel handle shovels experience fractures at the coupling point due to concentrated force and weight distribution, leading to reduced durability and resistance under working conditions.
Innovation Solution
A coupling and reinforcement assembly comprising a tubular neck, first and second connecting members, and a locking element, where the connecting members are hollow tubular elements with epoxy resin film for secure fitting, distributing force and weight across multiple areas, enhancing resistance and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional coupling means (screws or rims) are used to attach the handle to the shovel blade, then the assembly process is simple, but the coupling point becomes a critical fracture area due to concentrated force and weight distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into multiple components: a coupling member with first and second ends, a reinforcement member, and a retention member. This segmentation distributes the structural function across multiple elements, preventing single-point failure and improving durability while maintaining assembly simplicity through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement member extends along the handle in the longitudinal dimension, distributing forces away from the coupling point in multiple directions. This dimensional extension transforms the concentrated stress at the coupling point into a distributed load across a larger volume of the handle structure.
2Strength
If multiple mechanical fasteners (screws) are used to couple the handle to the shovel blade, then the connection is secure, but the handle and coupling portion become weaker due to the series of bores required for the fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The retention member replaces traditional mechanical fasteners like screws. Instead of using threaded fasteners that require multiple bores through the handle, the retention member uses a friction-fit or interference-fit mechanism within the hollow tubular structure, eliminating the need for multiple penetrating holes and preserving handle integrity.
3Device complexity
If the coupling area is designed to be compact, then the shovel structure is efficient, but the force and weight are concentrated in one area leading to fractures
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement member extends along the longitudinal dimension of the handle, distributing forces from the compact coupling area into the broader handle structure. This dimensional extension allows the coupling assembly to remain compact while effectively distributing loads over a larger volume, preventing stress concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly segments the force distribution function across multiple components (coupling member, reinforcement member, retention member), each contributing to different aspects of force and weight distribution, achieving both structural efficiency and strength.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design significantly increases the shovel's resistance to forces and weight, distributing stress across multiple elements, thereby enhancing the overall durability and longevity of the steel handle shovel.
Implementation Method 1
a first connecting member, a second connecting member and a locking element; wherein said members as well as the long handle are hollow tubular elements
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a steel handle shovel comprising a coupling assembly between the head shovel and the handle, which provides a higher resistance in the structure of the shovel to the force and the weight the shovel undergoes under working conditions.