TecQuipment's Pin-Jointed Frameworks hardware is a versatile and visually-effective modular teaching apparatus for studying the strains, stresses, forces and deflections in different pin-jointed frameworks.
To perform experiments, students build various pin-jointed frameworks using stainless steel members. The equipment includes two framework supports, one allowing pivoting and the other allowing pivoting and rolling.
Each member has a strain bridge attached. Students use an electronic load cell to apply loads to the structure at various angles. To apply loads simultaneously, extra load cells are available (STR8a). A digital deflection indicator measures the deflection, while a digital strain bridge measures member strains (thus forces).
The Pin-Jointed Frameworks hardware is supplied in a carrying case and includes a lead to connect the load cell to a Digital Force Display (STR1a). It also includes an electronic load cell, digital deflection indicator, stainless steel members with strain gauges attached, bosses, a lecturer guide and a student guide.
The Pin-Jointed Frameworks Virtual Experiments Software enables computer simulation of experiments working with or without the Structures teaching hardware. It expands the scope of experimentation beyond the limits of the hardware, allowing students to select a structure (Warren girder, cantilever truss or roof truss), its dimensions and elements, and the Young's modulus of the material. Students can also apply varying loads to the frameworks at different angles using one or two virtual load cells.
The virtual experiments software allows students to visualise, tabulate and graph data, reducing the time required for students to obtain, process and present results. During experiments, a table simultaneously displays the relevant strains and forces, while a colour-coded system clearly identifies the corresponding elements. This allows students to realistically, efficiently and conveniently investigate and compare the properties of a wide selection of pin-jointed frameworks under varying applied loads.
The Virtual Experiments Software is available in a variety of multi-user and networked options, as well as single-user format.