Virtual Work-very confused about the sign conventions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the horizontal force P required to maintain the position of four uniform links with mass m in a vertical plane. The confusion arises regarding the sign conventions for virtual work in this context. The participants clarify that understanding the principles of virtual work is essential for solving the problem accurately. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the sign conventions to analyze the forces acting on the links.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of virtual work principles
  • Knowledge of static equilibrium in mechanics
  • Familiarity with force analysis in rigid body systems
  • Basic concepts of mass and gravitational forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of virtual work in mechanics
  • Learn about static equilibrium and its applications
  • Explore force analysis techniques for rigid bodies
  • Review examples of sign conventions in physics problems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in mechanical engineering, physics, and anyone involved in analyzing forces in static systems.

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The problem statement is "each of the four uniform links has a mass m. determine the horizontal force P required to hold them in place in the vertical plane as shown." I attached the solution, but I don't get when a force causes a +/- virtual work.
 

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Erm, I'm not sure how work would come into this problem? What exactly are you asking?
 

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