A new laboratory course in Theory of Structures was introduced in the DLSU BSCE curriculum. In this course, students perform laboratory experiments using TecQuipment Strucures Apparatus to investigate the behavior of simple structural members. 
The first equipment used was the STR2 Moment in a Beam Apparatus. In this experimental set-up, hanger and masses are applied at specific points of the beam. There is a “cut” on the beam where the bending moment can be computed by measuring the force sensor (F) with a moment arm d from the cut. The experimental moment is equal to F times d.
The students performed two experiments using STR2. Expt. No. 1 investigated the relationship of the Moment with varying point load. A point load with increasing magnitude was applied on the beam and the Moment at a "cut" was observed. In Expt No. 2, the students observed the Moment at the "cut" when a moving load with constant magnitude was applied on the beam. They were able to derive an experimental influence line and compared with the theory.
congratulations doc andy!
ReplyDeletemethinks, this is the first ever theory of structures laboratory that uses equipment to verify theoretical values to experimental.
unlike the customary structural theory lab classes that i've been handling, this one doesn't depend on computation sheets only in writing the student's solution in a theoretical problem discussed in the lecture classes.
hoping that the rest of the colleges/universities/schools that offers similar course will follow this trend.
ANIMO!
I agree with mike
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