23rd Jun 2023
To the uninitiated, an excavator bucket or ground engaging tools (GET) might seem like a simple piece of equipment, just a hard working attachment on a machine. However, for engineers, excavator bucket design signifies a beautiful harmony between function and form, a testament to engineering excellence. Harnessing the power of SolidWorks, FEA and FEM software, ENSTRUC bucket engineers thrive on creating strong, functional bucket designs that enhance earthmoving productivity and efficiency.
Designing an ENSTRUC excavator bucket with ground engaging tools (GET) starts with understanding the attachment’s task. Will it be used for digging, grading, or loading? The task influences the bucket’s shape, size, and the material to be used. By conducting preliminary research and understanding the user requirements, the process of conceptualisation becomes clearer and more directed.
Once the concept is clear, the next step is to translate the idea into a tangible model using SolidWorks. Powerful CAD and simulation software enables ENSTRUC engineers to create highly detailed 3D models of their designs. It provides the tools to accurately represent the complex geometries often found in excavator buckets and GETs, such as curvature, depth, and edges. The design process often begins with sketching the basic shape of the bucket components and then using SolidWorks features like Extrude, Revolve, Loft, and Sweep to create the 3D model. The software’s capabilities, such as “Assemblies” for creating multiple interacting parts and “Sheet Metal” for producing flat patterns from 3D models, greatly ease the design process.
Arguably one of the most significant benefits of using SolidWorks is its integrated simulation capabilities. These tools allow engineers to test their designs under real-world conditions before they’re physically produced. SolidWorks Simulation is invaluable for analysing how an excavator bucket would respond to physical forces such as stress, strain, and temperature. This is crucial for ensuring that the bucket can handle heavy loads and harsh conditions in excavation and earthmoving operations.
Once the simulation results are obtained, the design is often iterated for optimisation. SolidWorks offers ‘Design Study’, a functionality that allows ENSTRUC engineers to test different parameters of the model and find the optimal solution based on defined constraints. This can help ensure that the excavator bucket and its wear parts are as efficient, durable, and cost-effective as possible.
Once the design is finalised, SolidWorks’ rendering capabilities allow ENSTRUC engineers to create photorealistic images and animations of their designs. This can be beneficial when presenting designs to stakeholders or marketing the product to potential buyers. Furthermore, SolidWorks can export files compatible with 3D printers or CNC machines for prototyping or manufacturing. Rapid prototyping provides an opportunity to have a physical model in hand for review, often leading to valuable insights and design adjustments.
Last but not least, SolidWorks provides comprehensive documentation tools to aid in the ENSTRUC manufacturing process. Engineers can generate detailed 2D drawings from 3D models, including dimensions, tolerances, and annotations. The software also supports the generation of a Bill of Materials (BOM) and Weldment Cut Lists, which are essential for production planning and procurement.
