Experiment for the study of the characteristics of a fifi xed arch under various load conditions. Mounts on the Structures platform and connects to the Structures automatic data acquisition unit and software (VDAS® Onboard)
Key Features
• One of a range of experiment modules that teach structures principles
• Fits to the Structures platform for ergonomic use and space-saving storage
• A simplififi ed version of a realistic structure to give students an understanding of real-life structures
• Includes multiple loads for many combinations of loads including uniformly distributed loads (UDLs)
• Supplied with a storage tray to keep smaller items safe
• Direct reading of horizontal reaction and fifi xing moment for quick and simple experiments
• Complementary experiments available: Three-Pinned Arch (STS9) and Two-Pinned Arch (STS10)
• Works with user-friendly software (VDAS®)
Description
One of a range of experiment modules that fifi t to the Structures platform (STS1, available separately), this product helps students to understand how loads aff ect the horizontal reaction forces in a fifi xed arch.
Students apply loads to hangers suspended from the arch, held between two ‘fifi xed’ supports. A load cell on one support works with a special mechanism to measure the horizontal reaction due to the load. A second load cell on the other support works with a moment arm to measure the fifi xing moment. Both load cells measure the forces and moments with minimal movement, approximating to fifi xed (Encastre) supports.
Each support includes pointers that work with the scale on the platform for accurate positioning. Students use textbook equations to predict the reaction forces and fifi xing moments due to the load, comparing them with measured results. They also learn how to create the inflfl uence line and bending moment diagrams. This helps confifi rm the reliability of the textbook equations and the accuracy of the experiment results.
This product includes additional masses so students may apply a uniformly distributed load (UDL) across the span of the arch for comparison of results with a single point load.
The load cell connects to the USB interface hub of the Structures platform for computer display and data acquisition (VDAS® Onboard).
Standard Features
• Supplied with comprehensive user guide
• Five-year warranty
• Made in accordance with the latest European Union directives
• ISO9001 certififi ed manufacturer
Learning outcomes
• Horizontal reaction and fifi xing moment due to a varying single point load on a statically indeterminate structure
• Horizontal reaction and fifi xing moment due to a moving single point load on a statically indeterminate structure
• Horizontal reactions and fifi xing moment due to a uniformly distributed load on a statically indeterminate structure
• Inflfl uence lines and superposition
• Lines of thrust in an arch
• The Secant assumption
• Graphical construction of a bending moment diagram for point loads
• Maximum bending moments due to a load on an arch
Essential Ancillary
• Structures Platform (STS1)
Software
TecQuipment has created data acquisition applications (VDAS® Onboard) for each experiment module, with additional simulated experiments.
The simulated experiments allow students to simulate the hands-on laboratory experiments, verifying their results. They also allow simulation of alternative set-ups, such as arches of larger span, extending the learning experience beyond the practical laboratory session.
