Solving 3D Statics Homework with Free Body Diagram

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a 3D statics homework problem using free body diagrams and moment equations. The user initially struggles with too many unknowns while applying the equations of equilibrium, specifically the summation of forces and moments. A key suggestion is to use one of the rings as a reference point for the moment equation, which simplifies the problem by eliminating one force. Ultimately, the user successfully determines that Ay and Cy are equal to 190 after extensive substitution.

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  • Understanding of 3D statics principles
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Knowledge of equilibrium equations in mechanics
  • Ability to perform determinant calculations
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  • Study the application of moment equations in 3D statics
  • Learn how to effectively use free body diagrams for complex systems
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Homework Statement


upload_2016-4-12_19-53-5.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Free body diagram
upload_2016-4-12_20-3-27.png
Setting moment at the origin = 0

(Rb X B) + (Ra X A) + (Rc X C) = 0

solving the 3 determinants and setting the coefficients of i, j, and k to 0, I get:

8Bz - 10 Cy = 0

-12 Az + 10 Cx = 0

12 Ay - 8Bx = 0

I have too many unknowns.

summing forces :

∑Fx = Bx + Cx = 0

∑Fy = Ay + Cy - P = 0 => Ay + Cy = 380

∑Fz = Az + Bz = 0

I still have too many unknowns.Any suggestions?
 
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goonking said:

Homework Statement


View attachment 99005

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Free body diagram
View attachment 99006

Setting moment at the origin = 0

(Rb X B) + (Ra X A) + (Rc X C) = 0

solving the 3 determinants and setting the coefficients of i, j, and k to 0, I get:

8Bz - 10 Cy = 0

-12 Az + 10 Cx = 0

12 Ay - 8Bx = 0

I have too many unknowns.

summing forces :

∑Fx = Bx + Cx = 0

∑Fy = Ay + Cy - P = 0 => Ay + Cy = 380

∑Fz = Az + Bz = 0

I still have too many unknowns.Any suggestions?
Just like you would do when solving a 2-D problem, it is better to write a moment equation using one of the three rings as the reference, rather than picking another arbitrary point like the origin. Using one of the rings as the reference for the moment equation eliminates one of the forces, and you should be able to solve for the remaining forces using the two equations of statics which you are allowed to write.
 
SteamKing said:
Just like you would do when solving a 2-D problem, it is better to write a moment equation using one of the three rings as the reference, rather than picking another arbitrary point like the origin. Using one of the rings as the reference for the moment equation eliminates one of the forces, and you should be able to solve for the remaining forces using the two equations of statics which you are allowed to write.
you mean for example, taking ∑Mc = 0 along the x-axis : (Bz)(8) + (Ay)(15.62) - (P)(10in) = 0

(Bz)(8) + (Ay)(15.62) = (380)(10) = 3800
 
Last edited:
actually, I was wrong, I had all I needed already, it was just A LOT of substituting but in the end, I got Ay = Cy
plugging into Ay + Cy = 380

Ay = Cy = 190

A lot of subbing to find Ay = Cy12 Ay = -8 Cx = -8(12/10 Az) = 8(12/10) Bz = . . . and so on
 

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