Flashcards for:
Fundamentals of Truss Structures and Analysis

Method of Sections involves cutting through the truss to expose internal forces of interest and solves forces in specific truss members.

A triangle due to its inherent stability and ability to maintain shape under loading.

Uses free body diagrams for the whole truss and individual joints. Applies equilibrium equations to solve for unknown forces at each joint. Identifies zero force members through specific configurations of the truss.

Trusses that require additional methods for analysis, like the force method or displacement method due to excess members.

Members are either in tension (trying to elongate) or compression (pushing inward). Zero Force Members can occur and often included for stability or unforeseen loads.

Three-dimensional trusses that are analyzed using six equilibrium equations similar to planar trusses.

Members carry only axial loads, either in tension or compression.

Frames can carry bending moments and have loads applied directly to the members unlike trusses.

Trusses that can be fully analyzed using equilibrium equations alone.

A rigid structure comprised of multiple straight members organized in a specific design.

Fink Roof Truss

1. Pinned Joints: Assume all joints are pinned allowing rotation but no bending moments. 2. Load Applications: Loads are only applied at the joints, not along the members.

Traditional truss designs used in bridge construction where differences in member forces influence material choices and structural integrity.