Range of Experiments
- To experimentally determine the vertical and horizontal deflections of various curved bars whose cross sectional dimensions are small compared with the bar radius.
- To compare with theoretical estimates using strain energy theories such as Castiglione’s first theorem.
Description
The theoretical deflections of curved shapes are most easily found by applying strain energy ideas, such as Castiglione’s first theorem. The shapes chosen provide a relatively easy introduction to the use of such techniques, which students often seem to find difficult to grasp.
A bench mounted base supports a curved bar formed into a ring, semi-circle or quadrant/davit. Loads are applied by specially designed weight hangers so that the specimen bends. Horizontal and vertical deflections are measured by dial gauges rigidly attached to the base. The bars can be readily changed and the position of the dial gauges relocated to measure the deflections of the new configuration. Bars, weight hangers and a set of weights are supplied.
This equipment is part of a range designed to both demonstrate and experimentally confirm basic engineering principles. Great care has been given to each item so as to provide wide experimental scope without unduly complicating or compromising the design. Each piece of apparatus is self-contained and compact. Setting up time is minimal, and all measurements are made with the simplest possible instrumentation, so that the student involvement is purely with the engineering principles being taught.