Troubleshooting a FBD of a Pulley

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on troubleshooting the free body diagram (FBD) of a pulley system to determine the tension in segment DEC. The key equation discussed is the force balance equation, ∑F_z = 0, which leads to the expression 2(4/√96)T - (1/√5)(1677.05) = 0. The confusion arises from the term 2(4/√96), which is derived from the symmetry of the system and the geometric relationships within the triangle formed by points C, D, and E. Understanding the projection of the plane CDE in the y-z coordinate system is essential for calculating the necessary lengths and tensions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of free body diagrams (FBD) in mechanics
  • Knowledge of tension forces in pulley systems
  • Familiarity with trigonometric relationships in triangles
  • Basic skills in coordinate geometry for spatial analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in mechanical systems
  • Learn about tension distribution in symmetric pulley systems
  • Explore coordinate transformations in three-dimensional space
  • Review trigonometric functions and their applications in engineering mechanics
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Mechanical engineering students, physics learners, and professionals involved in structural analysis or mechanical design who are working with pulley systems and free body diagrams.

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Homework Statement



I'm having a bit of trouble understanding something from this:

http://gyazo.com/88a466b57d8516d2df1b12008947be43


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I understand how to get the components of reaction at ##A## as well as the tension in segment ##BE##.

What I'm having trouble with is the FBD of the pulley used to determine the tension in ##DEC##. I'm not quite sure how they have come up with a part of the force equation, namely:

##\sum F_z = 0 \Rightarrow 2(\frac{4}{\sqrt{96}})T - \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}(1677.05) = 0##

The term ##2(\frac{4}{\sqrt{96}})T## is what is confusing. I understand you need twice the tension since it's symmetric, but how on Earth are they getting ##\frac{4}{\sqrt{96}}##?

I figure they are applying ##\frac{T_z}{T} = \frac{4}{\sqrt{96}}## to a triangle, but I'm not seeing the triangle.
 
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If you look at the diagram, write the coordinates of points C, D, and B.

When the pulleys are under tension, one can see that CDE make a triangle and a plane. You can also assume that the line BE will also lie in that same plane. You can determine the position of the point E by drawing a projection of the plane CDE in the y-z coordinate plane, and extending it to the line AB on the y-axis. Once the coordinates of point E are known, you can calculate the length of line DE, which is Sqrt (96) feet.
 

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