Project brief
This structural study brings together laboratory reaction measurements, classical beam calculations and ANSYS deformation visualizations. The laboratory portion loads a rectangular frame at mid-span in increments from 100 g to 500 g. A moment arm and load cells record support moment and horizontal reaction, while frame geometry and section dimensions establish the basis for analytical comparisons. The calculation section evaluates load, bending moment, stress and deflection for steel, brass and aluminium under common geometric assumptions. Its material comparison illustrates the role of elastic modulus in stiffness while the force and moment terms depend on the stated loading and geometry. The ANSYS material studies provide meshed beam models and scaled deformation contours for the three materials. The report discusses support conditions, material assignment, load application and static structural post-processing. The experimental frame results and beam simulation images are treated as separate evidence strands because the supplied report does not establish a fully consistent like-for-like correlation between them. The portfolio therefore presents what each strand demonstrates: measured reaction trends, analytical material sensitivity and visible finite-element deformation patterns.
The engineering challenge
Relate measured structural reactions to idealized calculations and interpret simulation results without overlooking differences in geometry and support conditions.
Engineering approach
- Load the laboratory frame in five mass increments and record reactions.
- Convert load-cell force to support moment using the 0.05 m moment arm.
- Calculate idealized bending stress and deflection for three materials.
- Build and mesh beam models in ANSYS and inspect total-deformation contours.
- Keep experimental frame quantities distinct from idealized beam outputs.
Results & observations
Reported rounded load for the 500 g mass.
Laboratory frame at 4.90 N using the 0.05 m moment arm.
Right-support reading at 4.90 N; sign follows the report convention.
Report calculation PL/4 with P=4.90 N and L=0.50 m.
Features & capabilities
- Incremental laboratory loading
- Support-moment measurement
- Horizontal reaction tracking
- Three-material stiffness comparison
- ANSYS beam meshing
- Scaled total-deformation contours
Software & engineering tools
ANSYS Workbench, Static Structural, Load cells, Digital force display, Classical beam equations