Dynamics of Machinery

Homework #2 – Use the Principle of Virtual Work

1) The bar of mass m and length L leans against

the wall as shown. Find the force P required
to keep it from sliding down under its own
weight. Neglect friction.

2) The scissors mechanism shown is held in equilibrium by

opposing actions of the force P and the spring of stiffness
k = 50 (lb/ft) . Given that the dimension a = 1 (ft) and that
the spring is unstretched when θ = 45 (deg) , find the force P
required to hold the mechanism in equilibrium when
θ = 30 (deg) . Neglect the weights of the members.

3) The mechanism shown is used to produce the

crushing force F. Given the force P, find the
force F required to hold the mechanism in
equilibrium. Note that P is perpendicular to the
bar. Neglect the weights of the members.

4) The system shown consists of a bar AB that is held up by a

spring. Because of the action of the roller, the spring
always remains horizontal. Given that the mass of the bar
is m = 80 (kg), the length of the bar is A = 3 (m) , the
stiffness of the spring is k = 2 (kN/m), and that the spring
is unstretched when θ = 90 (deg) , find the two
equilibrium positions of the bar.
Actividades Lectura autónoma #2
El estudiante debe leer analíticamente y de manera autónoma las siguientes
secciones del texto guía antes de cada sesión:
Cap. 11, Análisis de fuerzas dinámicas, Sec. 11.4-11.12