Suspended Weight Homework: Max Total Weight for Cables C1-C6

[bsaab]

Homework Statement

In a certain structure, the cables C1, C2, and C3 (Figure) can each carry a weight of 100kg, and C4, C5, and C6 can each carry 50kg. Weights are suspended at R, S, and T.

What is the maximum total weight the structure can carry?

PS1: (Ignore the weight of the structure itself).
PS2: (The distances are in red).

It's important to tell that this problem requires a linear programming solution but I just want to know about the physics concepts behind the problem.

Any help would be good for me.

Thanks in advance!

Homework Equations

Here goes the figure

[PLAIN]http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/3176/systemd.png

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[JaredJames]

Do you know how to calculate the forces through the structure when the weights are applied at each point?

 

[Beaker87]

To solve this, you want to work up from the bottom, finding the torque applied to each support, and the force the support needs to apply in order to supply that much torque.

For example:

$$\frac{3T}{4} = C6 \leq 50$$

and

$$\frac{S+2C6}{3} = C3 \leq 100$$



Then perform any substitutions that you can
From the above examples:

$$\frac{S+2\frac{3T}{4}}{3} = C3 \leq 100$$

 

[bsaab]

Beaker

Your method is correct, the system are in rest so the torque applied to each support has to be zero.

Im really thankful!

 

[rwisz]

I understand that the maximum total weight the structure can carry is dependent on the strength and capacity of the cables C1-C6. The weight each cable can carry is limited by its tensile strength and the weight distribution along its length. Additionally, the distance between the points of attachment (R, S, and T) also plays a role in determining the maximum weight the structure can carry.

In order to solve this problem, we would need to consider the forces acting on each cable and determine the maximum weight that can be supported without exceeding the tensile strength of any individual cable. This would involve analyzing the forces in each cable using principles of static equilibrium and considering the weight distribution along each cable.

Furthermore, the distance between the points of attachment would also need to be taken into account as it affects the distribution of weight and the forces acting on each cable. If the distances were changed, the maximum weight the structure can carry would also change.

In summary, the maximum total weight the structure can carry is dependent on the strength and capacity of the cables as well as the distance between the points of attachment. This problem requires a thorough understanding of physics concepts such as forces, equilibrium, and weight distribution in order to determine the maximum weight the structure can support.