How Do You Account for Member Weights in Crane Boom Statics Calculations?

[BlueBeast]

The 6575-lb engine is suspended from the crane boom. Assume the initial weight of members CD and AB to be 10lb/ft and 50lb/ft.

Determine the resultant internal loadings acting on the cross section of the boom at point E. Also, find the joint reactions at A, C and D.

So far I solve for the reactions at E. I am not sure what to do with the weight of members CD and AB. For now I have just added the weight of AB onto the end of my moment and Forces in the Y direction equations.
Is this correct?

Attached is my work and a picture of the boom.

gravity = 32.2
1. Homework Statement



2. Homework Equations



3. The Attempt at a Solution

 

[SteamKing]

It is not clear what you mean by the reaction at E.

You are given the weights of both the crane boom and the diagonal support.
Figure out where these loads are applied, then determine what the reactions are at
points A, C,and D.

 

[BlueBeast]

I don'

 

[SteamKing]

Post mangled beyond recognition by forces unknown.

Original question material removed.

Recommend termination of thread.

 

[rezeew]

I would first clarify the problem to ensure that the initial weights of members CD and AB are indeed meant to be included in the calculations. This is important because it could significantly affect the resultant internal loadings and joint reactions. If the weights are meant to be included, then your approach of including them in the moment and forces equations is correct.

However, if the weights are not meant to be included, then they should be excluded from the calculations. In this case, the initial weight of member CD would not have any effect on the calculations, as it is not connected to the boom at point E. The weight of member AB, on the other hand, would need to be considered as a downward force acting at point E, which would need to be balanced by an equal and opposite reaction at point A. This would change the forces in the Y direction equation to:

ΣFy = RA + 6575 + 50(6) = 0

Solving for RA, we get a reaction of 6435 lbs, which is slightly different from the initial calculation of 6425 lbs when including the weight of member AB.

Therefore, it is important to clarify the problem and understand the intended inclusion of the initial weights of members CD and AB before proceeding with the calculations.