Need help finding an equivalent spring constant

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on finding the equivalent spring constant in a system with two springs, k1 and k2, where k1 equals k2 when the bar is in equilibrium. The user has defined displacements x1 and x2 for each spring and derived a relationship between them using moments. They reached the equation F=Ke*X=k1*x1+k2*x1*(L1/L2) but are struggling to relate the total displacement X to x1. The key insight is that the displacement X at the load application point can be determined through geometric relationships involving x1 and x2. The user seeks assistance in establishing this relation.
enceladu5
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Homework Statement



I have a attached a photo of the problem I'm trying to solve.

I defined x1 as displacement of the bar at the k1 spring, and did so similarly for x2 & k2.

It is known k1=k2 as the bar lies flat in equilibrium before the force is applied.+

By taking the moment about F, I found x2=x1*L1/L2

So far i have F=Ke*X=k1*x1+k2*x1*(L1/L2)
where Ke is the equivalent spring constant.
I'm stuck finding a relation between X and x1.

I'd like to thank any who can help in advance
 

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k1 is not necessarily equal to k2 before the force is applied (unless the bar has weight, which, in this problem it doesn't). Your displacement X at the load application location is related to x1 and x2 by a simple geometry problem.
 
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