Weight distribution, multiple points of contact

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating normal forces for a vehicle with three points of contact: the scoop, front wheels, and rear wheels. Gunnar highlights the challenge of having only two equations from balancing forces and torque, leading to an insufficient number of equations to solve for the unknowns. The response clarifies that if the contact points are not collinear, an additional equation is unnecessary, but for four points, it would be required. This indicates the importance of understanding the geometry of the contact points in relation to the vehicle's dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static equilibrium principles
  • Familiarity with torque calculations
  • Knowledge of rigid body mechanics
  • Basic concepts of normal force in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of static equilibrium in multi-point contact scenarios
  • Learn about the effects of contact point geometry on force distribution
  • Study rigid body dynamics and deformation under load
  • Explore advanced torque analysis techniques for complex systems
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in vehicle dynamics or structural analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Gunnar Larsso
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hello everyone!

I am struggling with calculating the normal forces for a vehicle that is in contact with the ground at three places (scoop, front wheels, rare wheels).

To calculate the normal forces with two locations (such as front and rare wheel) it is just to balance the forces as well as the torque giving you two equations and two unknowns.

However, with three locations I am one equation short.. Having tried to calculate the torque around all locations I have realized that doing so provide no extra information (i.e. just get back the same equation for angular momentum independent of location or 0=0 after some manipulation). I have the feeling that I have missed something basic, fundamental and simple, but just can't figure out what.. How do I find that extra equation needed to solve the problem? Any help would be deeply appreciated!

Regards,
Gunnar
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Welcome to PF!

Hello Gunnar! Welcome to PF! :smile:

If the three contact points are in a straight line, then yes you need another equation (probably one describing how much the "rigid" body bends).

If they're not in a line, then no, but you would need another equation for four points. :wink:
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Torque required from powered roller to rotate cylinder
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Undergrad How can you make a free body diagram for someone running then sliding?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Undergrad What is the acceleration at the contact point between a wheel and surface?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
Undergrad Will This Friction Clamp Hold the Weight?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Undergrad Effective weight vs distance to the point of attachment of the weight
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Undergrad How to quantify gyroscopic precession torque?
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
5K
Undergrad Motorcycle model and tire force
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Undergrad Does the Normal contact force act through the centre of mass?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
Undergrad Determine if the block will slide or flip over after contact
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Undergrad Solving Wheel Coming to a Stop: FBD, Friction & Hysteresis
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
5K