Structural design of foldable manual handcart

Abstract

Foldable manual handcarts are an important topic in the design of lightweight mechanical products, because they need to meet the actual needs of portability and reliability in daily transportation scenarios. Current researches and products in this field still face a key problem, which is to find a balance between compact folding, stable structure and ease of operation. In order to solve this problem, this thesis develops a design method that combines three-dimensional modelling and finite element verification. The simulation results show that the proposed 0°–180° self-locking hinge and ratchet-assisted wheel structure meet the required strength, stiffness and fatigue performance under the set load conditions. The research provides a feasible structural design strategy for foldable manual handcarts and provides a solution for the development of safer, more stable and more user-friendly portable products in the future.