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Trusty Trusses

CSEF · 2003 Structural Capability & Strength of Materials (Junior Division Only)

Jenny L. Cooper · Mesa Verde Middle School, Moorpark

Overview

Objectives/Goals The purpose of this project was to find out how strong a truss can be made. With trusses made stronger, buildings and bridges can be made to withstand more weight. This project focused on the shape of the interior supports. Methods/Materials In this experiment, balsa wood was used to form trusses made with different polygons as the interior supports. The ratio was found of the load supported to the weight of the truss. The load used was water so it was easy to measure in grams how much it was. Results Triangles were found to have the best ratio. As more sides were added to the polygon, the ratio became smaller and smaller. Conclusions/Discussion From this experiment, it can be concluded that triangles are stronger and sturdier than other polygons. Using triangles in structural designs will make a strong, efficient structure.

Summary statement

This project was done to find out what type of polygon would be strongest as interior support in a truss.

Help received

Mother helped gather materials and took pictures; Dad helped put together test stand;

Competition history

  • CSEF 2003 Structural Capability & Strength of Materials (Junior Division Only) · Entry J1803

Resources

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Source: California Science & Engineering Fair public projects

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