Forces in Truss Apparatus | FrixoDynamics FX-514

Key Features

Key Features

• Strain gauge load cell on every bar provides simultaneous, independent force measurement across the full truss, no manual repositioning of sensors required
• 12-channel measurement amplifier acquires all bar forces simultaneously for complete, instantaneous truss force data
• LabVIEW-based DAQ software displays bar forces graphically, supports data export, and includes a comprehensive help function, compatible with any Windows environment
• Load application device (−500 to +500 N, 0.01 N graduation) mountable on different node discs for variation of load direction and point of application
• Six bar lengths and four angular relationships enable construction of three distinct truss geometries within a single apparatus
• Pin-install node disc closures allow rapid, tool-free bar assembly and reconfiguration
• Frictionless pin joints transmit no moments, producing ideal truss behaviour directly comparable to analytical methods
• All components housed in a dedicated storage system and assembled within the support frame for organised, efficient laboratory use
• Results directly comparable against method of joints and Ritter's method of sections calculations

Applications

• Measurement of bar forces in statically determinate single-plane trusses under external loading
• Investigation of the effect of load direction on bar force distribution
• Investigation of the effect of load point of application on bar force distribution
• Comparison of experimental bar force measurements against theoretical values from the method of joints
• Comparison of experimental results against Ritter's method of sections
• Study of tension and compression force distribution across different truss geometries
• Demonstration of strain gauge load cell principles in structural force measurement
• Undergraduate and postgraduate laboratory practicals in structural mechanics, statics, and structural analysis

Construction and System Design

The FX-514 support frame is a rigid metallic structure that provides two fixed support locations corresponding to the truss boundary conditions. The frame geometry is fixed, and the truss is assembled within it by selecting the appropriate bar lengths and connecting them at node discs. Each node disc accepts multiple bars simultaneously through its pin-install closure system, locking each bar end securely at the correct angular position. Five standard node discs and two support node discs are provided.

Each bar is a precision-machined steel member with a strain gauge bonded to its surface. The strain gauge converts axial deformation under tension or compression into an electrical signal proportional to the bar force. All gauge signals are routed via the included cable set to the 12-channel measurement amplifier, which conditions and digitises the signals before passing them to the host computer running the LabVIEW DAQ software.

The software displays all bar forces simultaneously in both numerical and graphical format, allowing students to observe the complete force distribution across the truss in real time as the applied load is varied. The load application device is a manually operated mechanism that applies a controlled compressive or tensile force to the selected node disc, with the magnitude read from the integrated force gauge. Repositioning the device to a different node disc, or changing the angle of force application, requires only a few seconds, enabling a wide range of loading scenarios to be explored within a single laboratory session. All components return to the storage system after use, keeping the apparatus organised between sessions.

Export and Supply Capability

The SCIENTICO FrixoDynamics FX-514 is available for supply to engineering colleges, technical universities, civil and mechanical engineering departments, research institutions, and industrial training centres. SCIENTICO manufactures and exports laboratory equipment to institutions and distributors across multiple regions. Standard packaging is suitable for international shipment. Bulk orders, customised configurations, and institutional procurement enquiries are welcomed. Please contact SCIENTICO directly for pricing, lead times, and shipping terms.

Standards & Compliance

• Manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System
• CE Marking - European Conformity where applicable
• Supplied with calibration certificate, operation manual, and experiment guide
• 12-month manufacturer's warranty (parts & labour from installation)

Ordering & Delivery

• Incoterms: CIF to destination seaport, FOB Mundra/Nhava Sheva, or Ex-Works Ambala
• Lead time: 3–5 weeks production + sea transit to destination
• Payment: LC (Letter of Credit) or T/T bank transfer against proforma invoice
• Documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, insurance certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the forces in truss apparatus used for?

The FX-514 is used to measure the axial forces, tension and compression, in the individual bars of a single-plane statically determinate truss under an applied external load. Students construct the truss from the provided bars and node discs, apply a known force using the load application device, and record all bar forces simultaneously via strain gauge sensors and the LabVIEW DAQ software. The measured results are then compared against theoretical values from the method of joints and Ritter's method of sections.

Q2: What is the method of joints and how does the FX-514 support its verification?

The method of joints is an analytical technique for determining bar forces in a statically determinate truss by applying equilibrium equations at each node in sequence. The FX-514 supports its verification by providing measured bar forces for the same truss configuration and loading, allowing students to compare the experimentally recorded force in each bar against the value calculated analytically. The LabVIEW software facilitates direct side-by-side comparison of measured and theoretical data.

Q3: How many truss configurations can be built with the FX-514?

Three distinct truss geometries can be constructed using the provided bar set. The six bar lengths, 150 mm, 259 mm, 300 mm, 397 mm, 424 mm, and 520 mm, in the quantities supplied allow bars to be combined at angles of 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° to form different planar truss forms within the support frame. The node disc pin-install system allows configurations to be changed quickly between experiments.

Q4: What software is used with the FX-514, and what are its system requirements?

The FX-514 uses DAQ software developed specifically for this apparatus in the National Instruments LabVIEW environment. The software acquires data from all 12 strain gauge channels simultaneously, displays bar forces graphically in real time, and supports data recording and comparison against theoretical values. It includes a comprehensive help function and is compatible with any Windows operating system.

Q5: What is included in the scope of delivery for the FX-514?

The FX-514 is supplied as a complete experimental kit including: one set of bars (1 x 150 mm, 3 x 259 mm, 7 x 300 mm, 1 x 397 mm, 3 x 424 mm, 1 x 520 mm) each with integrated strain gauge load cell; 5 standard node discs; 2 support node discs; 1 load application device (−500 to +500 N, 0.01 N graduation); 1 set of measurement cables; DAQ software (LabVIEW-based, Windows compatible); and 1 instructional manual covering assembly, experimental procedures, and data analysis guidance.