Solve Reactions R1 & R2: Singularity Functions

[2slowtogofast]

Homework Statement

The beam in the picture is 16 inches long and support a is in the middle. I have to find the reactions R1 and R2 useig singularity functions. Unfortunatly i have no way on this computer to draw my FBD.

The Attempt at a Solution

q = -R1<x>^-2-300<x>⁰+300<x-12>⁰-1000<x-16>^-1+R2<x-8>^-1now did i forget to put anything in this eqaution the only thing i can think of but am not sure is should there be a moment at O. The other thing I am unsure of is did i enter the part for the distrubuted load right.

q = -R1<x>^-2-300<x>⁰+300<x-12>⁰-1000<x-16>^-1+R2<x-8>^-1

from here i should be able to integrate and solve for the rest just need to know if i have problems with my starting equation

 

[KataKoniK]

Hi there,

Your starting equation looks good, but there are a few things you may want to consider. First, it may be helpful to define your coordinate system and indicate the directions of your forces and reactions. This will help you keep track of your signs and make sure they are consistent throughout your calculations.

Second, it looks like you have a point load of 1000 lbs at 16 inches from the left end, but you also have a distributed load of 300 lbs per inch from 12 inches to 16 inches. You may want to break this up into two separate equations to account for the different types of loads.

Finally, it is always a good idea to check your units to make sure they are consistent. In this case, it looks like you have a mix of inches and pounds, so you may want to convert them all to a common unit (e.g. feet and pounds) before integrating.

As for the moment at O, it will depend on how you define your coordinate system and the direction of your forces. If you define clockwise as positive, then the moment at O would be -R1 * 8 inches. But if you define counterclockwise as positive, then the moment at O would be R1 * 8 inches.

I hope this helps! Good luck with your calculations.