Analysis Process - Lester

   This method of analysis is accurate. The free body diagrams help calculate the load on each joint and member in a probable way. However, it is an extremely simple method that neglects other factors, such as an uneven load distribution, torque, the fact that the bridge is 3-dimensional, imperfect joints, etc. For a real bridge, this method is not sufficient. Although this week we will be using the Bridge Designer analysis to gain information on our Knex Truss and fine-tune our design, the information is not exact. The joints, members, or truss itself may not behave as the simple analysis would predict. We must keep this in mind while working this week and in Week 8 lab.

   A method of joints that applies to 3-D structures would be helpful. The load calculations could be more inclusive if each side of the truss were taken into account, as well as the support beams between them. Also, since a load is applied over a large area and not just on one joint at the midpoint, a more inclusive load calculation method would be useful. Some tools that might assist use are a protractor to measure angles, a device that measures stress and strain on a joint (if such an instrument exists), and knowledge about how forces distribute in a 3-D model.