Determining the Free Body Diagram for a Dolly & Trailer

In summary, the conversation discusses the establishment of a basic free body diagram for a trailer being pulled by a dolly. The person is confident about the vertical forces but is unsure about the opposing horizontal forces. The other person suggests considering the contact points of the trailer with the ground and mentions the presence of vertical contact forces and a horizontal friction force from the tires. The full question also involves the design of a dolly, which would include reaction forces Ax and Ay.
  • #1
theone
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Homework Statement


The context of this problem involves a dolly pulling a trailer, and I am trying to establish the basic free body diagram for the trailer. Is what is done so far acceptable and is this a step in the right direction?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I am confident about the vertical forces, but can't gather what forces are opposing horizontal motion.
 

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  • #2
theone said:

Homework Statement


The context of this problem involves a dolly pulling a trailer, and I am trying to establish the basic free body diagram for the trailer. Is what is done so far acceptable and is this a step in the right direction?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I am confident about the vertical forces, but can't gather what forces are opposing horizontal motion.
Well, it's a trailer. You don't want too many forces opposing horizontal motion, otherwise you're dragging the thing along.

Think about where the trailer makes contact with the ground. What forces are present there?
 
  • #3
SteamKing said:
Well, it's a trailer. You don't want too many forces opposing horizontal motion, otherwise you're dragging the thing along.
Think about where the trailer makes contact with the ground. What forces are present there?

is it just the vertical contact forces between the tire/ground and the trailer tongue/ground as well as the horizontal friction force from the tires?

The full question involves the design of a dolly for the trailer. So when the dolly is connected to the trailer, should that just be taken as reaction forces Ax, Ay?
 

1. What is a free body diagram?

A free body diagram is a visual representation of all the forces acting on an object or system. It is a useful tool for analyzing the motion and stability of objects.

2. How do you determine the free body diagram for a dolly and trailer?

To determine the free body diagram for a dolly and trailer, you must first identify all the external forces acting on the system. These can include the weight of the dolly and trailer, the force of the towing vehicle, and any friction or resistance forces. Then, draw arrows to represent each force, labeling them with their magnitude and direction.

3. Why is it important to determine the free body diagram for a dolly and trailer?

Determining the free body diagram allows you to understand the forces at play and how they affect the motion and stability of the dolly and trailer. This information can be used to make adjustments to improve the efficiency and safety of towing operations.

4. Can the free body diagram change depending on the conditions?

Yes, the free body diagram can change depending on various factors such as the weight and distribution of the load on the trailer, the terrain, and the speed of the towing vehicle. It is important to reevaluate the free body diagram in different conditions to ensure accurate analysis.

5. Are there any limitations to using a free body diagram for a dolly and trailer?

While a free body diagram is a helpful tool, it does have some limitations. It assumes that all forces are acting in one plane and does not take into account any internal forces within the dolly and trailer. Additionally, it does not consider the effects of acceleration or deceleration during motion.

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