Applications in
Engineering Mechanics
Dr. Wayne Whiteman
Director of the Office of Student Services
and Senior Academic Professional
School of Mechanical Engineering
This course addresses the modeling and analysis of static
equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering
systems and problem solving.
School of Mechanical Engineering
Module 3 Learning Outcomes
Define multi-force members
Review 2-force members
Apply the 2D equilibrium equations
to solve for the force reactions and
moment reactions acting on
structures with interacting bodies or
parts and containing at least
one multi-force member.
2
Structures with interacting bodies or parts and
containing at least one multi-force member.
Frame
Stationary structure to support loads
Example – Step Ladder
Machine
Structure containing moving parts
Designed to transmit and alter the
effect of forces
Has purpose of doing mechanical work
Example - Pliers
3
Structures containing at least one multi-force
member
Multi-force members
Member that is subjected to more
than 2 forces
2-Force Members
Review from “Intro to Engineering
Mechanics
4
2D Equilibrium Worksheet 2
By=Dy 2 FORCE MEMBERS
Weightless members with force
By application at two frictionless
pins only
Tension (T) or Compression (C)
Equilibrium requires
Equal forces
Opposite forces
Collinear forces
Dy
Shape is not a factor
5
Multi-force member
Member that is subjected to more than 2 forces
6
Apply the 2D equilibrium equations to solve for the
force reactions and moment reactions acting on
structures with interacting bodies or parts and
containing at least one multi-force member
“if a body is in equilibrium, each of
its parts – being a body in its own
right – is also in equilibrium”
[Used with permission from “Engineering Mechanics:
Statics,” McGill/King, 4th Ed, 2003, pg 221]
7
Worksheet: Identify the multi-force members and the 2-force
members in the structures below
Used with permission from “Engineering
Mechanics: Statics,” McGill/King, 4th Ed, 2003