How should this Beam Loading experiment be designed?

In summary, the Beam Loading experiment should be designed by first defining the objectives and hypotheses to be tested. It should include selecting appropriate materials and equipment to ensure accurate measurements of load distribution and structural response. The setup must account for variables such as beam dimensions, load types, and support conditions. Data collection methods should be clearly outlined, ensuring reproducibility, and safety protocols must be established to protect participants and equipment. Finally, a detailed analysis plan should be prepared to interpret the results effectively.
  • #1
Physical_Fire
28
3
Homework Statement
Attached.
Relevant Equations
No need.
The question and my attempt at a solution are attached. Thanks.
Question.png
Attempted_Solution.png
 
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  • #2
The beams are of various lengths. You did not specify where the supports or loads are to be placed, and there is no mention of distances in your table.
 
  • #3
I kept the beam length constant. Independent variable is the force and the dependent variable is whether the beam breaks or not. The rest are constant.
 
  • #4
Physical_Fire said:
I kept the beam length constant. Independent variable is the force and the dependent variable is whether the beam breaks or not. The rest are constant.
You cannot keep the beam length constant. You can keep the distance between the supports constant, but how to determine that distance, and where exactly should each beam be placed across them? And where should the load be placed?
A key aspect of experimental design specification is that others can repeat exactly what you did.

A trickier problem is what load to start with and by how much to increase it at each step. You cannot go back and try a slightly smaller load when it breaks. If you increase by large steps you will end up with a big margin of error; if you go in tiny steps it'll take a month.
Maybe that's beyond what is expected here, but can you think of an approach?
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
You cannot keep the beam length constant. You
Why not?
haruspex said:
A key aspect of experimental design specification is that others can repeat exactly what you did.
Why can't they repeat?
 
  • #6
haruspex said:
but how to determine that distance
That distance is an arbitrary distance within the scope of the beam, where different masses would be placed on it until the beam breaks
 
  • #7
Physical_Fire said:
Why not?
Because the beams provided are of various lengths.
Physical_Fire said:
Why can't they repeat?
Because as your description stands there is not enough information. You leave many details unspecified.
Physical_Fire said:
That distance is an arbitrary distance within the scope of the beam, where different masses would be placed on it until the beam breaks
Not good enough. You need to say how you will choose the distance. If the beam lengths available are 2m, 3m and 12m, what distance would you choose?

Now, I did not set this question. Maybe you are not expected to address these points. I can only discuss how I would answer it.
 
  • #8
I am genuinely confused. Why can't the loads be the independent variable as the loads are being changed?
 
  • #9
Physical_Fire said:
I am genuinely confused. Why can't the loads be the independent variable as the loads are being changed?
I did not say that. Which of my comments is that a response to?
 
  • #10
haruspex said:
You cannot keep the beam length constant.
This. All in all, I don't get the idea as to what the variables are.
 
  • #11
Gotcha
 

FAQ: How should this Beam Loading experiment be designed?

What are the key parameters to consider when designing a beam loading experiment?

Key parameters include the type of beam material, dimensions of the beam (length, width, height), type and magnitude of the load applied, support conditions (e.g., simply supported, fixed, cantilever), and the method of load application (point load, distributed load).

How should the beam be supported during the experiment?

The support conditions should mimic real-world applications and can vary based on the experiment's goals. Common support types include simply supported (both ends rest on supports), fixed (both ends are fixed), and cantilever (one end is fixed, the other is free). The choice of support affects the beam's deflection and stress distribution.

What instrumentation is needed to measure beam deflection and stress?

To measure deflection, dial gauges or laser displacement sensors can be used. For stress measurement, strain gauges attached to the beam surface are commonly employed. Data acquisition systems are necessary to record and analyze the measurements from these instruments.

How should the load be applied to the beam in the experiment?

The load can be applied as a point load using weights or a loading frame, or as a distributed load using sandbags or a uniform load apparatus. The method of application should be consistent and controllable to ensure accurate results. The position of the load application should also be well-defined.

What safety considerations should be taken into account during the experiment?

Ensure that the beam and supports are securely fixed to prevent unexpected movement or collapse. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles and gloves. Be aware of the maximum load capacity of the beam to avoid structural failure. Clear the area of non-essential personnel during load application.

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