Statics problem free body diagram

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the correct interpretation of free body diagrams in statics, specifically regarding the reactions at hinge A for members AB and AC. Participants clarify that the reactions at hinge A, represented as Ax and Ay for AB, are independent of the forces acting on AC, denoted as Fac. The consensus is that including Fac in the free body diagram for AB is incorrect, as each member's forces should be treated independently, regardless of their connection at the same hinge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of free body diagrams in statics
  • Knowledge of reaction forces at hinges and joints
  • Familiarity with two-force members in structural analysis
  • Basic principles of equilibrium in mechanics
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  • Study the principles of free body diagrams in statics
  • Learn about the independence of forces in structural mechanics
  • Explore the concept of two-force members and their implications
  • Review examples of equilibrium conditions in mechanical systems
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Students studying statics, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in structural analysis or mechanics who seeks to improve their understanding of free body diagrams and reaction forces.

lc99
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Homework Statement


upload_2018-4-16_14-50-21.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


upload_2018-4-16_14-54-16.png


why are my reactions at A considered wrong? I know that AC and DC are two force-members
 

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I meant to post this on the physics homework forum if anyone can move it!
 
Here is more of my drawings...

upload_2018-4-16_15-19-41.png
 

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lc99 said:
I meant to post this on the physics homework forum if anyone can move it!

I think it is fine here. No need to move it. If you don't get any answers soon, click on my name and send me a message.
 
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lc99 said:
why are my reactions at A considered wrong?
You are mixing up forces on different members. The reaction between the hinge at A and AB is independent of the reaction between that hinge and AC.
 
haruspex said:
You are mixing up forces on different members. The reaction between the hinge at A and AB is independent of the reaction between that hinge and AC.

What do you mean by independent? I'm not sure if i am understanding. :(

For the reaction between hinge A and AB, you have Ax and Ay. for the reacting between hinge A and AC, you have Fac from the two force member.

are both of my drawings wrong?
 
Last edited:
lc99 said:
For the reaction between hinge A and AB, you have Ax and Ay. for the reacting between hinge A and AC, you have Fac from the two force member.
Yes, but you have included Fac on the free body diagram for AB.
 
haruspex said:
Yes, but you have included Fac on the free body diagram for AB.
isnt that right? the member AC has force on AB
 
lc99 said:
isnt that right? the member AC has force on AB
No, this is my point about their independence. Each spar is tied to the joint independently of the other. It would be exactly the same if they were tied to different joints that happened to be at the same point.
 
  • #10
haruspex said:
No, this is my point about their independence. Each spar is tied to the joint independently of the other. It would be exactly the same if they were tied to different joints that happened to be at the same point.

so it should just be Ax and Ay?
 
  • #11
lc99 said:
so it should just be Ax and Ay?
Yes.
 
  • #12
haruspex said:
Yes, but you have included Fac on the free body diagram for AB.
Would it be wrong if i leave Ax and Ay off except Fac? If it is, then whenever i see a two force member and a pin together on one joint, i only draw the Ax and Ay?

Do i leave Fac off because Fac is a reaction force to the pins Ax,Ay?
 
  • #13
lc99 said:
Would it be wrong if i leave Ax and Ay off except Fac? If it is, then whenever i see a two force member and a pin together on one joint, i only draw the Ax and Ay?

Do i leave Fac off because Fac is a reaction force to the pins Ax,Ay?
There is not (or does not need to be) any force between AB and AC. They just happen to be connected to the same hinge. So the free body diagram for one should ignore the presence of the other.
 

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