Optimisation of Scissor Lifting Machine Structures using Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Lifting operations in heavy industries demands facilities to load and unload large parts from ground to a specified height with reliable mechanism. To fulfil the demand, a study was conducted to design and analyse a scissor lifting machine structures using the finite element analysis. A conceptual design is well developed based on the current movable vertical platform used in the industries. The whole structure designed was analysed by part analysis to ensure it meets the targeted properties, which can sustain the maximal load of 1500 kg with minimal structural weight and suit the safety factor. Throughout the analysis, a series of design optimization process was carried out to correspond to all the properties based on the finite element results. All models were built in CATIA workbench before being imported into ABAQUS workbench to create the mesh and perform the analysis. A steel material was first assigned together with all its mechanical properties before running the simulation. The parts studied were base, scissor and deck, which the final design must have a value of less than 250 MPa for Von Misses Stress from the analysis. The total weight of each part was also considered as well as having an optimum safety factor of 1.8 to 2.0. To invent a good design, several steps had been applied generally to all parts during the optimization process. Reducing thickness, adding holes, applying rib features, increasing offset features, adding support plates, changing solid to the hollow bar, using standard parts and replacing U-channel were identified among the crucial steps in producing a competitive design in terms of strength and weight. All the final designs of each part had successfully met the safety factor, stress and weight limit, thus resolve the industrial demands.