Calculating Torques for Equilibrium of Truss System

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating torques for maintaining equilibrium in a truss system, specifically at hinge A. The key equations for equilibrium are established: the sum of forces in the x-direction ($\sum F_x = 0$), the sum of forces in the y-direction ($\sum F_y = 0$), and the sum of moments about point A ($\sum M_A = 0$). Participants emphasize the importance of determining external forces at points A and D, including their components, to solve for the unknown forces P and F along bars AB and AE.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static equilibrium principles in physics
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Knowledge of torque calculations and their application
  • Basic proficiency in vector resolution of forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in truss systems
  • Learn how to construct and analyze free body diagrams
  • Explore torque calculations and their significance in mechanical systems
  • Investigate methods for resolving forces into components
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers working with structural systems, and anyone involved in mechanical design or analysis of truss structures will benefit from this discussion.

paulmdrdo
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I wonder if there's a physics person here who could help me solve this problem.

the loads applied to the truss shown in the figure cause reactions shown at A & D. A free body diagram of hinge A forms concurrent force system shown enclosed at A. Determine the magnitude of forces P & F directed respectively along bars AB & AE that maintain equilibrium of this system.
 

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LATEBLOOMER said:
I wonder if there's a physics person here who could help me solve this problem.

the loads applied to the truss shown in the figure cause reactions shown at A & D. A free body diagram of hinge A forms concurrent force system shown enclosed at A. Determine the magnitude of forces P & F directed respectively along bars AB & AE that maintain equilibrium of this system.

Hi LATEBLOOMER! :)

First step is to find all external forces based on the conditions for equilibrium ($\sum F_x = 0, \sum F_y = 0, \sum M_A = 0$).

Suppose the external force at A on the truss has 2 components $A_x$ and $A_y$, and similarly at D we have $D_x$ and $D_y$. Can you find these forces?
I suggest you start with calculating the moments of all external forces with respect to A.
 
I like Serena said:
I suggest you start with calculating the moments of all external forces with respect to A.

Just a comment: in US physics, at least, moments are called torques. See here and here.
 

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