Truss Analysis
This project required a partner and I to design a physical truss, add two loading conditions, and find the internal loadings through a Matlab analysis, online calculator, and by hand.
Pictured is one of the loading conditions simulated in Matlab, with tension and compression markers.
Takeaways:
During our project, we used MATLAB for structural analysis, building a model truss and finding the internal loads of members, based on two separate loading conditions. Initially, we struggled with the syntax and understanding of the interface, but after some practice, the truss began to come together. We learned how to troubleshoot bugs that popped up doing the coding process, and in doing so, further understood the code itself.
We also sharpened our ability to perform the method of joints and sections during the theoretical calculation process.
I think the most rewarding and challenging aspect of the project was digging into the MATLAB, as it required a full understanding of the method behind the code and an understanding of how to apply the method to MATLAB.
