Reaction at Various Supports and Connections demonstration tool

Final design for reaction at various supports and connections demonstration tool. Left image is the box closed with clear lid and carrying strap. Right image is the box open with various supports and connections on panels of box

Description

This model was built to demonstrate reaction forces and moments for various supports and connections. Each panel of the box contains different types of supports or connections as seen in the right image. The purpose of this model was to allow the user to physically interact with the supports and connections often seen in textbooks or sample problems and better visualize reaction forces and moments. The panels of the box have detachable hinges to allow for easy distribution in the classroom for in person learning or demonstration in the camera screen for online learning. The left image shows the box being held together with a clear acrylic lid and nylon carrying strap.

Application

1. Observe each support and connection and determine its reaction forces and moments.

   1. Horizontal slider -- slide circle along horizontal slider, the arrows indicate reaction forces in the y and z directions

   2. Pillow block journal bearings -- the bushing in the bearing with the washer is rotatable, but the bushing in the bearing without the washer is not able to rotate

   3. Roller -- roll wheel along track

   4. Round and square bore bearings -- slide and rotate bearings up, down, and around the aluminum columns

   5. Hinge -- one hinge is non-removable, but the other three hinges are removable

2. Three panels are detachable to allow for easy viewing and distribution.

3. To store the box, fold up the sides and put the acrylic lid on top. Flip the box with the lid upside down and the hook clip onto strap.

Engineering Concepts Covered: Image below from Vector Mechanics for Engineers: Statics. Textbook taught for UCSD MAE30A.

Learning Objective

1. Students will be able to visualize reaction forces and moments in different supports and connections

2. Students will be able to compare the similarities and differences of reaction forces and moments in similar supports and connections