a$)$ An engineer is trying to optimize the design of the truss shown in Figure $1.$ What

changes can be made to create a more efficient design.

b$)$ The truss in Figure $2$ has a pin support at joint $E$ and a roller support at joint $A.$

i$)$ List any zero force members in the truss

ii$)$ Find the components of the reaction forces at joints A and $E$

iii$)$ Use the method of joints to find the force in member DE and state if the

member is in tension or compression

iv$)$ Use method of sections to find the force in member GF and state if the

member is in tension or compression