How Much Vertical Acceleration Can a Forklift Give Without Tipping?

[yoamocuy]

Homework Statement

The forklift and operator have a combined weight of 50,000 N and center of mass at G. If the forklift is used to lift the 10,000 N concrete pipe, determine the maximum vertical acceleration it can give to the pipe so that it does not tip forward on its front wheels.

Homework Equations

$$\Sigma$$F_y=Ma
$$\Sigma$$M=0

The Attempt at a Solution

$$\Sigma$$F_y=Ma: -10000-50000+2*N_a+2*N_b=(10000/9.81)*1.2

$$\Sigma$$M_G=0: -1.2*(2*N_a)+1.8*(2*N_b)+1.5*10000+1.5*((10000/9.81)*1.2)=0

Solve for 2 equations 2 unknowns and get N_a=21.17kN and N_b=9.44kN

Ok so basically I'm doing some review for an exam and was wondering if my steps to my answer seem alright. This seems a bit too easy to be the correct way to get the answer

 

[anathema]

.

Hello,

Your steps seem to be correct. To determine the maximum vertical acceleration, you need to use the equations of motion and equilibrium to find the forces acting on the pipe and the forklift. Your final answer of Na=21.17kN and Nb=9.44kN also seems reasonable.

One thing to note is that you have assumed that the forklift and operator are at rest, which is a valid assumption for this problem. However, if the forklift is moving, you would need to take into account the additional forces acting on the pipe and forklift due to the acceleration.

Overall, your solution is correct and demonstrates a good understanding of the concepts involved. Keep up the good work!

 

[kerimek]

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Your approach and steps seem correct. The equations you have written are the correct ones to use for solving this problem, and your solution for Na and Nb also seem reasonable. However, it is always a good idea to double check your work and make sure all of your assumptions and calculations are correct. You may also want to consider including units in your calculations and final answer to ensure accuracy. Additionally, it may be helpful to draw a free body diagram to visually understand the forces acting on the forklift and pipe. Overall, your solution appears to be correct, but it is always important to check and verify your work.