Introduction
• The project focuses on designing a motorized
wheelbarrow powered by electricity to
improve efficiency and reduce physical strain
in construction, agriculture, and workshops.
Background
• Manual handling in construction is a
significant risk factor for injuries.
Wheelbarrows are essential but require
ergonomic redesign to enhance usability,
safety, and functionality.
Problem Statement
• Manually operated wheelbarrows in Ethiopia
face issues like physical strain, inefficiency, and
difficulty handling heavy loads, especially on
inclines and rough terrains.
General Objective
• To develop a motorized wheelbarrow that is
user-friendly, efficient, and reduces human
exertion in tasks such as transporting
materials uphill or over rough terrain.
Specific Objectives
• 1. Carry up to 200kg.
• 2. Design advanced components (chain, shaft,
brakes, etc.).
• 3. Perform force analysis and accommodate
inclinations of up to 15 degrees.
Significance of the Study
• Motorized wheelbarrows reduce human
effort, increase efficiency, and have versatile
applications, such as landscaping,
construction, and farming.
Scope of the Project
• The wheelbarrow is designed with specific
dimensions (50cm width, 100cm height,
130cm length) and includes a scissor jack for
lifting materials (lifting height: 30cm max,
10cm min).
Methodology
• 1. Literature review of existing motorized
wheelbarrows.
• 2. Need analysis to identify problems.
• 3. Systematic design and selection of
mechanisms.
• 4. Detailed technical and force analysis of
components.
Material Selection
• Steel selected for durability, ductility, and
strength to carry heavy loads. Material
properties like availability, cost, and resistance
to stress were considered.
Material Selection for Front Lift
and Support
• The front lift and support are made of steel for
high strength and toughness, capable of
handling heavy loads efficiently.
Material Selection for Scissor Jack
• Steel chosen for its superior fatigue
performance, strength, and durability over
aluminum for scissor jacks, ensuring longevity
under heavy loads.
Material Selection for Frame and
Jack Support
• Gray cast iron is used for the frame and jack
support due to its high compressive strength,
vibration damping ability, and cost-
effectiveness.
Design Features - Bucket
• Buckets made of galvanized steel, either
welded or pressed, for durability and ease of
material handling.
Design Features - Wheel
• Wheels designed with mild steel or cast iron,
featuring a minimum diameter of 300mm for
stability and support during operations.
Design Features - Axle
• Axles are machined to specific tolerances to
ensure smooth operation and durability under
maximum load conditions.
Design Features - Tires
• Front tires have chevron treads for traction on
rough surfaces, while rear wheels provide
360-degree maneuverability.
Rechargeable Batteries
• 24V rechargeable batteries with sufficient
capacity to complete a full day's work.
Batteries are easily removable for convenient
charging.
Working Principle
• DC motor converts electrical energy to
mechanical motion for efficient wheel
rotation. Smooth power transmission ensures
reliability.
On/Off Switch and Speed Control
• Includes rocker switches for activation,
variable speed control, and disc brakes for
safety during forward and reverse motions.
Manual Drive Release
• A manual drive release lever allows operation
when the battery is low or the drive system
becomes inoperable. Ensures flexibility in
usage.
Charging Mechanism
• Smart charging mechanism prevents
overcharging and includes an LED indicator for
battery status. Ensures long battery life.
Safety and General Warnings
• General operational warnings include
maintaining safe speeds, avoiding steep curbs,
and ensuring proper handling during reverse
operations.
Battery Warnings
• Precautions for battery usage, such as
avoiding exposure to heat, preventing short
circuits, and handling lead-acid batteries
safely.
Conclusion
• The design meets project goals, such as
usability, transportability, and efficiency,
making it suitable for various applications like
construction and farming.
Recommendations
• Recommendations for further improvements,
including enhanced braking systems, weight
reduction, and optimizing motor efficiency.
Assembly Drawing and Future
Work
• Illustrates the assembly drawing of the
motorized wheelbarrow. Future work includes
improving efficiency and reliability through
refined design.
