Linear Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of quick change buckets

The objective of this thesis is to design and analyze a new bucket attachment product for the construction industry. The quick-change bucket attachment for a Volvo EC55 backhoe was analyzed to determine if the tubular bucket can resist a maximum digging force of 9,470 pounds of earth soil, and 6,143 pounds of tear out force from the tractor. To maximize its strength and life expectancy, different materials with varying thickness were used throughout the area of the bucket where the most wear and tear occurred. The material's thickness and the bucket shell assembly were analyzed with IDEAS, a Computer Aided Design software platform. Each individual part of the bucket was analyzed separately throughout solid meshing and load distribution. The Finite Element Method approach was utilized to determine deflection and location of critical stresses. With maximum digging forces applied, the results in the critical stresses occurring in the joints of the cross tube areas were acceptable since the value was under the yield strength of A572 steel.