A wealth of high-powered, computer-based structural analysis tools is available to the engineer. They can produce a plethora of detailed analysis data, but the analysis does not come ready to run. The engineer needs to set it up. This involves selecting the correct structural elements (i.e., beams and plates), setting the appropriate boundary conditions, identifying the proper forces, etc. Before even turning the computer on, the engineer should sit down and sketch the problem out, identify some of the main features that should be included in the analysis model, and maybe even consider the basic trends expected to be observed from the analysis. In fact, this applies equally well to an experiment. In this exercise, we will set up a model to investigate a challenge problem.
Let's consider the challenge problem and begin the analysis by setting up a model. Consider a long, straight, rectangular plate and construct a free-body diagram (FBD). Model it as one long, continuous, rectangular plate that is attached at the root. Don't solve anything here. At this point, you want to include the boundary conditions, forces, torques, and internal reactions. Consider your knowledge of beams and torque tubes and the ideas presented in the video below. In addition to the FBD, provide a 1-2 paragraph discussion behind its development. Once you have this established you can perform a more informed material selection analysis. That will come in the next module.
