This MQP presents a solution to the time consuming and expensive process of snow removal. Eleven initial designs were generated and analyzed in terms of forces, weight, cost, safety, energy efficiency, storage/installation and internal forces. Finally a cable guided shovel design was selected for further analysis, design refinement and prototyping. The final design consists of a shovel that is driven along taut cables fixed parallel to the path to be cleared. The cables pass through either side of the shovel and through a motor- pulley assembly mounted to the shovel. Opposing frictional forces on the shovel blade and cable were determined to size the motors and cable. A prototype device was assembled to test its performance using mulch as the substitute for snow.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Das, Nithin

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042816-060344

Advisor

• Rao, Pratap M.

Year

• 2016

Date created

• 2016-04-28

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright