MEEN$10030$: Lab B

Date:

Name:

Student No:

Objectives:

Measure and calculate forces on a simple truss.

Understand how trusses work.

Determine the sources of error.

Equipment needed:

Truss set, load cells $(4),$ load cell amplifier, datalogger, slotted mass set, ruler, calculator.

Part A: Calculation of truss forces.

Calculate the truss forces along the truss members A$-$B$,$ B$-$C$,$ B$-$D$,$ C$-$D $($Figure $1)$ when $F=0\mathrm{.}5mg,$ where $m$ is either $0\mathrm{.}5,1\mathrm{.}1\mathrm{.}5$ or $2kg($according to the set of masses on your table$).$ Also calculate the reaction forces at C and D$.$ For your calculations, draw a $2$D free body diagram of one side of the truss only $($based on Figure $1$ left$).$ Indicate direction of the reactions and if the truss member forces are in tension or compression.

Calculate the forces on the truss according to the free body diagram. Show your calculations! $($You can use the back of this and the answer sheet$).$ Record results in Table A$.$