One of a range of experiment modules that fit to the Structures platform Structures platform STS1 (available separately), the product helps students understand symmetrical and non-symmetrical bending of three different beam shapes, including an equal ‘L’, a ‘U’ and rectangular. It also finds the shear centre of the channel (‘U’) beam.

For the symmetrical and non-symmetrical tests, a chuck clamps a beam while allowing rotation on its axis and allowing loads to be applied at various angles. Load applied at the free end produce resulting deflections, measured by a pair of precision indicators. Students plot their results on a Mohr’s circle which allows them to find the experimental Principal Second Moments of Area and position of the principal axes. These may be compared to those for the arbitrary section axes and the values calculated by textbook beam equations. This helps to confirm the reliability of the textbook equations and the accuracy of the experiment results.

For shear centre tests, a chuck clamps the ‘U’ section beam. A plate clamped to the free end allows various off set loads to twist the beam. Students apply loads at various off sets and use the indicators to determine when the twist is zero, thus corresponding to the shear centre position.

This product includes a Vernier caliper for accurate measurements of the beam cross-sections.

The deflection indicators have their own displays, but they can connect to the USB interface hub of the Structures platform for computer display and data acquisition.

*There are 21 different experiments in the Next Generation Structures range.

Key Features

• One of a range of experiment modules that teach structures principles
• Fits to the Structures platform for ergonomic use and space-saving storage
• Fully adjustable chuck positions for increased experiment range
• Includes rods of diff erent material for comparison of shear modulus (modulus of rigidity)
• Includes a tubular (hollow) rod to show the eff ect of ‘missing’ material, compared to a similar solid rod
• Includes Vernier caliper for rod diameter measurement
• Supplied with a storage tray to keep smaller items safe
• Works with user-friendly software (VDAS^®)

Learning Outcomes

• Show that shear centre can be outside beam section boundaries
• Shear centre of an unsymmetrical section
• Horizontal and vertical deflection in symmetrical and unsymmetrical sections at different loads and load angles
• Using Mohr’s circle to find principal axes and Second Moments of Area

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