Finding the normal force on a block on an inclined plane

[Rodrigue]

Hi

I have a simple and quick problem, located at: http://www20.brinkster.com/kaisolutions/prism.htm

I have calculated the second part which has been confirmed as correct: F = (mg) / 2(ìCosá - Siná)

But I am not sure how to do the first part which i suppose is easier! Thanks in advance,

Rodgrigue

 

[Rodrigue]

Sorry the symbols didnt display correctly:

ì = Coefficient of static friction
á = Angle at the top of the prism

Thanks,

Rodrigue

 

[Rodrigue]

Maybe this is not as easy as I thought? I thought it would be along the lines:

á = Tan(ì)

Any help is appreciated :)

Rodrigue

 

[krab]

Umm. Which way is gravity? The crane will never be able to support a weight by applying downward forces...