How Do I Solve a Translational Equilibrium Problem in Aerospace Engineering?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a translational equilibrium problem in aerospace engineering, specifically involving the analysis of forces in a system of cables under tension. The problem includes determining the maximum force that can be applied at a point and the corresponding angle, with a focus on applying equilibrium conditions and resolving forces.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Rob describes the problem involving two cables and seeks guidance on applying equilibrium conditions to find the maximum force P and angle α.
  • Rob mentions using a free body diagram and resolving forces, but expresses uncertainty about including the term for P in his equations.
  • Some participants suggest that Rob is on the right track and confirm that he should have two equations for the two unknowns, P and α.
  • There is a discussion about the correct setup of the equations, with emphasis on maintaining consistent directional conventions for forces.
  • One participant hints at rearranging the equations to express tan α in terms of other variables.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach to setting up the equations for equilibrium, but there are variations in how to express the terms and some uncertainty remains regarding the inclusion of certain components in the equations.

Contextual Notes

Rob's understanding of the problem is limited due to missing lectures, and he is self-teaching from a textbook. The discussion does not resolve all uncertainties related to the setup of the problem or the use of maximum tension values.

Who May Find This Useful

Students in aerospace engineering or related fields who are learning about translational equilibrium and force analysis in cable systems may find this discussion helpful.

rc flyer uk
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
I started my aerospace enginnering degree this year but have missed the first 7 weeks of lectures due to being in hospital, i was sent all lecture notes but am strugling with my mech module. I have my first assignment questions due in this week and am having dificulty thought you guys might be able to give me some guidance! Thanks

Question?

Two cables AC and BC are tied together and loaded at C as shown. The maximum allowable tension in each cable is 800N.

Find the magnitude of the largest force P Which could be applied at C.

Also find the corresponding value of the angle α

I have attached a word document of the diagram!

My workings so far have been something like this:

I have drawn a free body diagram to help make things more simple!

I have resolved the forces and renamed bc to T1 and ac T2

Apply the equilibrium conditions-

ΣFx=0= T1cos50- T2cos35 (+Pα) unsure if (+Pcosα) is nessacery as i have never completed an angular question like this!

ΣFy=0= T1sin50 + T2sin35 - Psinα

Next i am gusing as i am teaching myself from a book! i use these to equations as simultaneous equations and solve them. I was wondering if i should use the value of 800N for T1 and T2 as this is there max allowable tension but i am not sure!

Please can some one point me in the right direction, thanks a lot your help is much apreciated.

Rob
 

Attachments

Physics news on Phys.org
I don't know what "Attachment Pending Approval" means, but I'm not able to open your attachment. Hopefully it will get approved before your HW is due...
 
You are on the right track. You will have two equations and two unknowns, P and \alpha. Here is a hint: When you have your two equations, you will be able to rearrange the terms to get tan \alpha =...

Make sure you are consistent with which is the +x and +y directions in your equations. It looks like you have set up to the right being +x and up as being +y. If you stick with that through the whole problem you'll be fine.
 
Just adding to what Fred mentioned

ΣFx = 0 = T1 cos50 - T2 cos35+Pcos α by the convention that forces to the right are + and forces to the left are - (convention in Cartesian coordinates).

ΣFy = 0 = T1sin50 + T2sin35 - Psinα is correct.
 
Thanks a lot guys managed to complete the question and got it handed in on time!
Much apreciated!

Rob
 

Similar threads

Engineering Struggling with a Structural Analysis Problem?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Can Twine Support a 15-N Picture Without Breaking?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies: Solving a Complex Crane Boom Problem
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
How Do I Minimize Cable Tension in Engineering Mechanics?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Equilibrium of Coplanar Force Systems HW Problem
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
12K
How Do I Solve These Mechanical Principles Problems in Electronic Engineering?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Engineering How Do You Solve RCL Circuit Problems Using Kirchhoff's Loop Rule?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
How do I calculate the tension in cable 1 without using the tension in cable 2?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
6K
How do I find cord tension in Equilibrium problem?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
How Do You Solve the Moving Pulley Problem with a 100 kg Sack for Equilibrium?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
9K