Cantilevered Truss Analysis | Reaction Forces & Method of Joints

Use the equations for static equilibrium to solve for the reaction forces on a cantilevered truss. This involves looking at both the net torque on the truss around each of the supports as well as looking at the net force on the truss in each axis. Then having solved for the reaction forces by the pin and roller supports, we will use the Method of Joints to solve for the force in each beam or member of the truss. After that we will determine whether each beam is under tension, or under compression. Trusses are a fundamental part of the study of static structures and static equilibrium. Truss Analysis comes up in most courses that deal with statics. This includes introductory physics courses such as high school physics, AP Physics 1, AP Physics C Mechanics. As well as introductory engineering courses such as PLTW Principles of Engineering (POE). This problem also serves as the foundation for more advanced statics engineering courses that appear at a college level in fields such as civil engineering.