Determine the largest weight of the lamp that can be supported

[Robb]

Homework Statement

Each cord can sustain a maximum tension of 31 lb .

Determine the largest weight of the lamp that can be supported.
Determine θ of cord DC for equilibrium.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I found the answer to the first part of the problem (24.4lb) but not sure how to get theta.

 

[mfb]

How did you get the maximal weight without knowing the angle?

but not sure how to get theta.

What did you try so far?
What is the first step?

 

[Robb]

Sorry for the hand written notes. The answer to the first part is boxed in in the middle of the page. I haven't really done anything other than stare at my equations for the second part. I assume I am working with the equations associated with the FBD at the bottom of the page. T(1)=12.63lb., T(2)=17.86lb, T(3)=30.93lb

 

[haruspex]

As mfb posted, you cannot be sure of your answer to a) until you have found theta.
You can find T₄ from analysis of B.

 

[mfb]

The CD connection could break as well. You cannot know when that happens without the angle.