Learning Exercise
Activity #3. Analyze and Evaluate a Truss
In this learning activity, Analyze and Evaluate a Truss, we will analyze and evaluate one of the main trusses from the Grant Road Bridge.
We will create a mathematical model of the truss, then use this model as the basis for a structural analysis—a series of mathematical calculations to determine the internal force in every member of the truss. We will also use the experimental data from Learning Activity #2 to determine the strength of each truss member. Finally, we will perform a structural evaluation—a comparison of the internal forces and strengths, to determine whether the truss can safely carry its prescribed loads.
- Material:
- Designing and Building File-Folder Bridges: A Problem-Based Introduction to Engineering
- Date last modified:
- June 9, 2024
- Created by:
- Denis Shatalov
- License:
-
This textbook provides students with an opportunity to learn how engineers use math, science, and technology to design... see more
Exercise
Our plan to conduct the structural analysis and evaluation of the Grant Road Bridge
consists of the following tasks:
- Create the structural model.
- Check the structural model for static determinacy and stability.
- Calculate the reactions.
- Calculate the internal member forces.
- Determine the strengths of the members
- Calculate the factor of safety for every member in the structure
- Evaluate the safety of the structure.
- Check our assumptions.
Audience
Learning Objectives
As a result of this learning activity, you will be able to do the following:
- Calculate the components of a force vector.
- Add two force vectors together.
- Explain the following structural engineering concepts: free body diagram, equilibrium, structural model, symmetry, static determinacy, stability, and factor of safety.
- Use the Method of Joints to calculate the internal force in every member in a truss.
- Determine the strength of every member in a truss.
- Evaluate a truss, to determine if it can carry a given load safely.