How Can I Lift and Move a 400-Pound Load Without Wheels?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on lifting and moving a 400-pound load without using wheels, primarily due to concerns about maintaining a sanitary surface. The user proposed using four downward-facing fans or air compressors to achieve lift and mobility but sought advice on power requirements and airflow continuity. Suggestions included considering gimbaled wheels for maneuverability, although the user dismissed this option due to potential contamination risks. The conversation highlights the challenges of balancing mobility with cleanliness in specialized environments.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to lift and weight distribution
  • Knowledge of fan specifications and airflow dynamics
  • Familiarity with air compressor functionality and continuous airflow requirements
  • Awareness of sanitary surface maintenance in specialized environments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research fan power calculations for lifting heavy loads
  • Explore air compressor systems capable of maintaining continuous airflow
  • Investigate gimbaled wheel designs for potential use in sanitary applications
  • Learn about disinfectant systems that can be integrated into mobile platforms
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, project managers, and anyone involved in designing mobile systems for sensitive environments, particularly in medical or sanitary settings.

rgb95
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Hi I'm working on a project where I would need to lift about 400 pounds about 1 inch off the ground and keep the momentum in order to manually move it. I thought about using four fans with a skit on each corner facing downward to allow for upward movement, but I'm not sure how much power I would need the fan to be at or what calculations I would need to figure out the specifications. I also thought of using four air compressors but was unsure if I could keep the continuous air flow. Any suggestions would be extremely helpful! Thank you!
 
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rgb95 said:
Hi I'm working on a project where I would need to lift about 400 pounds about 1 inch off the ground and keep the momentum in order to manually move it. I thought about using four fans with a skit on each corner facing downward to allow for upward movement, but I'm not sure how much power I would need the fan to be at or what calculations I would need to figure out the specifications. I also thought of using four air compressors but was unsure if I could keep the continuous air flow. Any suggestions would be extremely helpful! Thank you!

Welcome to the PF.

How come you don't just use 4 gimbaled wheels?
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

How come you don't just use 4 gimbaled wheels?

I'm working on a sanitary surface so wheels will ruin the integrity of the surface. That was my first thought as well.
 
rgb95 said:
I'm working on a sanitary surface so wheels will ruin the integrity of the surface. That was my first thought as well.

Well blowing high-velocity air at the surface may also contaminate it, especially as the air will be getting pulled past motors, etc.

Wheels can be cleaned fairly well -- this is done in medical operating rooms, for example. Perhaps the cart could even clean up after itself, with a disinfectant system trailing behind it...
 

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