Figuring Out Forces in a Pulley System: What and Why?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on determining forces in a pulley system, specifically addressing the tension in the rope and its effects on various members. The tension remains constant throughout the rope, which is crucial for understanding the forces at play. The presence of two supports at point H is essential for balancing the system, and the 375lb weight influences the forces acting on member BFG. A Free Body Diagram (FBD) is recommended for visualizing the forces involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Free Body Diagrams (FBD)
  • Knowledge of tension in ropes and pulleys
  • Familiarity with static equilibrium concepts
  • Basic principles of force analysis in mechanical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study how to create and analyze Free Body Diagrams (FBDs)
  • Learn about static equilibrium and its applications in mechanical systems
  • Explore the effects of tension in pulley systems on connected members
  • Investigate the role of supports in balancing forces in a pulley system
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering, mechanical engineers, and anyone studying force analysis in pulley systems will benefit from this discussion.

princejan7
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Homework Statement

I don't really understand how to determine the forces in a pulley system. Like in this picture :

http://postimg.org/image/4vxrf59ar/

How do you decide what forces are present for the pulley? Why isn't there a 375lb on the right side as well? What would be the pulley forces at H?

Also, why does that 375lb affect the member BFG?
 
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princejan7 said:
Why isn't there a 375lb on the right side as well?
There is, it's just not shown. You are probably expected to understand that the tension in the rope is everywhere the same. If it were not, some part of the rope would move.
What would be the pulley forces at H?
Draw a FBD for it. What forces do you see?
Also, why does that 375lb affect the member BFG?
There are two supports at H, one holding the pulley and one holding the jib. Together they provide the forces necessary to balance the system. You can calculate the force at the pulley in isolation, then determine what additional force is required at the other support. The position of the trolley does affect the force required at the pulley, but it does affect the total force from the supports. Therefore the 375lb has consequences for the member BFG.
 

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