Automated soil compaction machine for the preparation of Califorian bearing ratio and proctor specimens

Walker, Cameron (2010) Automated soil compaction machine for the preparation of Califorian bearing ratio and proctor specimens. [USQ Project]

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Abstract

[Abstract]: This Dissertation addresses the design, development and construction of an automated soil compactor
for the preparation of California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Proctor samples. The necessity for this machine is primarily due to an ever increasing number of workers compensation claims within the soil testing and certification industry. The technicians that are currently preparing substrate samples by means of a manual compaction hammer are subjected to extended periods of use of this apparatus, causing Repetitive Strain Injury and Occupational Overuse Syndrome in the shoulders, neck and
elbows. Therefore, a mechanization of the manual compaction methods was required.

In addition to addressing the physical strain issues, the machine was also designed to fully comply with current Australian Standards. Multiple automatic machines are available on the market; however none achieve full compliance to the methods set out in AS1289. The design was therefore developed into a machine that mimics the manual compaction method exactly while eliminating the inherent
human error of the manual method.

The prototype Compaction Machine has successfully passed product testing as a viable, accurate and efficient tool for use within the Civil Testing Industry while fully complying with the relevant Australian Standards. The machine’s capabilities allow the unit to be used in researching more efficient compaction techniques; a very useful, promising future is ahead.


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Item Type: USQ Project
Refereed: No
Item Status: Live Archive
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: Historic - Faculty of Engineering and Surveying - Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering (Up to 30 Jun 2013)
Date Deposited: 18 Feb 2011 04:51
Last Modified: 18 Feb 2011 04:51
Uncontrolled Keywords: automated soil compactor; erogonmic performance; occupational health and safety; design methods
Fields of Research (2008): 09 Engineering > 0905 Civil Engineering > 090502 Construction Engineering
09 Engineering > 0913 Mechanical Engineering > 091302 Automation and Control Engineering
Fields of Research (2020): 40 ENGINEERING > 4005 Civil engineering > 400504 Construction engineering
40 ENGINEERING > 4007 Control engineering, mechatronics and robotics > 400799 Control engineering, mechatronics and robotics not elsewhere classified
URI: https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/18381

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