Applications in

Engineering Mechanics
Dr. Wayne Whiteman
Director of the Office of Student Services
and Senior Academic Professional
School of Mechanical Engineering

This course addresses the modeling and analysis of static

equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering
systems and problem solving.

School of Mechanical Engineering

 Module 10 Learning Outcomes

Identify zero force members in truss structures.

Explain why zero force members are used in
truss structures.

2
 Zero Force Members

Why are zero force members

using in truss structures?
Increase stability
Provide support if load changes
Aesthetically pleasing

3
 How do you identify zero force
members in truss structures?
By FBD
By inspection

4
 Zero Force Member Analysis
F B . .C B . .C F

A . .D changing loads A . .D

Find the force in members BC and CD

using the Method of Joints for both the
left and the right truss.

5
 Zero Force Member Analysis
F B . .C B . .C F

A . .D changing loads A . .D

6
Identify the zero force members in the truss structures below.
.E
.B .
C

.
A
. .F
D 500 N

7
Identify the zero force members in the truss structures below.
.E
.B .
C

.
A
. .F
D 500 N

8
Identify the zero force members in the truss structures below.
FPR
. FF
QR
Redefine x and y directions in the directions shown
x
RS y
Fy 0 FLN . FF LM

FQR 0 . FNQ
FKM MP
FMN
F 0
.
y
FNP
FMP FPR
F x 0
FLM 0
FMN 0
F y 0
FNP 0

9
Worksheet: Find the forces in member CD and DJ of the truss shown below.

10