The effect of out-of-plane loads on heavy mechanical systems - a case study of a rail car dumper system

Abstract

New design solutions for heavy mechanical systems arc generally developed based on similar historical designs. However. new solution requirements hardly ever match exactly with a historical design. Historical designs thus have to be altered or design modules from different past designs combined together in order to develop an acceptable design solutionis. The general agreement among researchers is that design reuse is an imprecise and error-prone activity. There are many technical problems associated with the design reuse process. Most of the technical problems (risks) are not apparent during the conceptual design stage. but can materialise during detailed design stage. manufacturing. installation or while in service.