Analysis of Trusses and Frames –Part 4

Dr. Prasun Jana

Assistant Professor
Aerospace Engineering
IIT Kharagpur

ME11003: Basic Engineering Mechanics

Reference:
Engineering Mechanics: Statics by J. L. Meriam and L. G. Kraige
Vector Mechanics for Engineers - Statics and Dynamics by F.P. Beer, E. R. Johnston Jr., et al.
Analysis of Frames and Machines
Analysis of Frames and Machines

Definitions:

A frame is that kind of a stationary engineering structure

whose at least one member is a multi-force member and is
designed to support loads.

A machine, like a frame, has at least one multi-force

member, but may not be stationary and can transmit or
modify forces.

Now, we will learn how to analyse these frame structures and

machines.

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Analysis of Frames and Machines

Free body diagram:

The free-body diagram of the frame is shown below.

W is known here. And the unknowns are - the two support reactions at A (Ax and Ay), and
the tension in the cable T.

FBD of the entire frame. FBD of the three members

separately. 4
Analysis of Frames and Machines

Determinate vs. Indeterminate Frames

In order to identify whether a structure is determinate or
not, do the following:

1. Find out the total number of external reactions, r. r=3,j=3,m=3

2. Replace each pin joint with two unknown forces, j.

3. Find the number of members, m. For each member we can write three equilibrium
equations. Total number of equilibrium equations therefore equal: 3m.

4. If r + 2j =3m, then the frame is determinate. If r + 2j > 3m, then the frame is
indeterminate.

If a structure is determinate, but displays external indeterminacy, each of the member of

the structure needs to be analysed separately as the equilibrium equation applied to the
frame as a whole would not yield the reaction forces.
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Analysis of Frames and Machines

Determinate vs.
Indeterminate Frames –
examples:

Identify whether each of the

frame shown here is
determinate or indeterminate.

If indeterminate, find the

degree of indeterminacy.

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Analysis of Frames

Example 1:
Consider the frame shown in the figure. Joint C is a pin
joint. Determine the forces in the different members.

Solution:

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Analysis of Frames

Solution continued….:

Using FBD 1:

FBD 1

We can also use FBD 2 to find these forces.

FBD 2
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Analysis of Frames

Example 2:
Neglect the weight of the frame and compute the forces
acting on all of its members.

Solution:
Note that the frame is externally indeterminate.

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Analysis of Frames

Solution continued…..:

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Analysis of Machines

Example 3:
A nut-cracker is shown in the figure. It is squeezed at the
ends by a force of 80N. Determine the force F, applied
by the round rod by each jaw. Additionally, calculate the
force supported by the pin at A.

Solution:

RA,y
Fy

RA,x

FBD of one of the leg.

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Thank you