On behalf of Rhein-Getriebe GmbH, our company provided static strength and fatigue strength verifications for the chassis frame of an automatic goods transport system (AWT). The AWT is designed as a monorail overhead conveyor and serves the efficient transportation of goods in containers, primarily in large hospitals. The containers can therefore be transported both horizontally and vertically across floors using the AWT.
The loads on the chassis frame result from the accelerated masses during horizontal and vertical movement of the containers – in particular during acceleration and braking.
The chassis frame consists of a welded profile box made of aluminium. It is connected to two cast aluminium U-frames via two steel bolts. These U-frames link the chassis to the drive unit on the monorail.
As the AWT cannot be clearly categorised in terms of its design type, the strength verifications were carried out in accordance with the FKM guideline.
Our calculations and verifications enabled us to determine the governing service life of the chassis frame for our client Rhein-Getriebe GmbH and to define corresponding maintenance intervals – helping to ensure the long-term efficiency and reliability of the AWT.
