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STATICS - CASE STUDY

    Introduction


Work Bench Tools

 

 

An owner has forgotten the combination to an old lock. In order to remove the lock, he will need to use a pair of bolt-cutters.

What is known:

  • A force of 45 lb is applied on each handle.
  • The dimensions of the bolt-cutters are:


Bolt-Cutter Dimensions

     

Problem Description
  Question

 

If 45 lb of pressure on each handle is required to cut the lock, what is the total force exerted at point Q?

   
  Approach

 
  • Use symmetry to simplify the problem.
  • Disassemble the tool and label the known and unknown forces acting on each segment.
  • Identify two-force members
  • Identify joints common to multiple members.
  • Solve using the equations of equilibrium.
     
   
 
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