Planter bin Overturning
A manufacturer of an injection molded planter bin wanted to verify the stands on the bin subject to wind loading. The planter bin is intended for use on apartment/condominium balconies for growing vegetables or flowers.
Finite element model
The modeling effort was complicated by a combination of shell features and solid features. Bosses throughout the model prevented a simple shell approximation of the entire structure. The stands on each end involved extensive contact between the edges of the stand and surfaces of the bin.
Results Stress OK
The stresses from the design wind loading were within limits.
Results Overturn?
If the soil in the bin is too dry, the bin is easily overturned.