Define a Problem
Goals for the project
-To build two efficient trusses
-To be able to use correct methods to solve the trusses
-To have the calculations be correct without using exterior programs (MDSolids), and only using them to verify the calculations.
-To build two efficient trusses
-To be able to use correct methods to solve the trusses
-To have the calculations be correct without using exterior programs (MDSolids), and only using them to verify the calculations.
Generate Concepts
1. As far as static determinacy was concerned the first thing we did once we saw the designs of the trusses what to use the equation to check. We knew that if it was not statically determinate, our methods for solving the support would be very different. Thankfully both trusses were statically determinate, so our known methods would suffice.
2. For where we were expecting the break points and breaking force, we did not discuss them seriously. I for one, did not see the trusses being able to hold much weight considering the materials it was made out of, but I was expecting the break point(s) to be on a beam, and not on a joint, due to the glue used to bond the ends of the beams being quite strong.
3. We were not totally concerned with making estimates for the maximum forces that the trusses could hold. I knew that the second truss would likely be far stronger than the first one, due to its basic structure composing of right triangles, which are possibly the strongest shapes for trusses, and considering that the second one had more beams and joints.
2. For where we were expecting the break points and breaking force, we did not discuss them seriously. I for one, did not see the trusses being able to hold much weight considering the materials it was made out of, but I was expecting the break point(s) to be on a beam, and not on a joint, due to the glue used to bond the ends of the beams being quite strong.
3. We were not totally concerned with making estimates for the maximum forces that the trusses could hold. I knew that the second truss would likely be far stronger than the first one, due to its basic structure composing of right triangles, which are possibly the strongest shapes for trusses, and considering that the second one had more beams and joints.
Develop a Solution
Construct and Test Prototype
Evaluate a Solution
The second truss is the best. It is the best because it allowed more force to be exerted on it without breaking. The max force was higher. This is because it has more beams and joints.
Present a Solution
![Picture](/uploads/1/1/7/6/117626016/p164_1.png?250)
The 1st truss with gussets when we finished making it
![Picture](/uploads/1/1/7/6/117626016/p165_1.png?250)
The 2nd truss with gussets after it was finished
![Picture](/uploads/1/1/7/6/117626016/p166_1.png?250)
2nd truss right before we tested it.
Conclusion
1st truss
It broke because the member was under the most compression. In the calculations and MDsolids the angled member was under the most stress and compression; this is why we predicted it would break there.
2nd truss
In the second truss the angled member on top and the corner members broke. I think this is because the angled member had the most stress and the corner members were at the roller point, so it snapped under pressure. Our calculations did not show us that the members would break at these points
To redesign our truss i would get sturdier gussets, stronger glue, and harder wood. This way more force can be exerted on it.
It broke because the member was under the most compression. In the calculations and MDsolids the angled member was under the most stress and compression; this is why we predicted it would break there.
2nd truss
In the second truss the angled member on top and the corner members broke. I think this is because the angled member had the most stress and the corner members were at the roller point, so it snapped under pressure. Our calculations did not show us that the members would break at these points
To redesign our truss i would get sturdier gussets, stronger glue, and harder wood. This way more force can be exerted on it.