Experiment for the study of determinate and indeterminate truss structures. 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
• Excellent introduction to statically indeterminate structures
• Strain gauge amplififi er and multiple strain gauges for measurement of force in each member of the truss
• Simple thumbscrew adjustment for easy engagement of the redundant member
• Supplied with a storage tray to keep smaller items safe
• 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 the analysis of statically determinate and indeterminate truss structures made from a number of ‘members’ held together by joints at their ends. Two supports hold the truss. One support allows rotation only and the other allows rotation and translation. Students apply a load to the truss at the free end Joint Boss. Strain gauges on each truss member measure the forces due to the load. A precision indicator measures the framework deflfl ection due to the load. A hand-operated load cell assembly applies and measures the load. A simple thumbscrew engages and disengages an extra ‘redundant’ member.
Students apply loads to the truss initially without the extra ‘redundant’ member engaged. This frame is stable and statically determinate (can be solved by static equilibrium). They then engage an extra ‘redundant’ member, making the frame statically indeterminate, requiring a more advanced analysis such as the strain-energy method. Students may measure the deflfl ection of the frame for both cases and compare.
Students use textbook equations and methods to predict the forces in each ‘member’, comparing them with the measured results. This helps confifi rm the reliability of the textbook equations and the accuracy of the experiment results.
The strain gauges connect to a strain gauge amplififi er, which connects (with the load cell) to the 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
• Strain gauges as instruments
• Forces within and deflfl ections of a truss structure that is statically:
• determinate
• indeterminate
• Member forces by the method of joints and method of sections
• Member forces by the use of the strain/energy method
• Advantages and disadvantages of both versions of the truss
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 setups, such as frame members of diff erent cross-section and material, extending the learning experience beyond the practical laboratory session.