Civil Lab Structures Equipment

Digital Force Display

The display measures up to four forces from sensors on many of the experiments inthe Structures range. A four-way selector switch selects the displayed force. The Digital Force Display fixes to a Structures Test Frame. This keeps the experiments tidy and saves space around the work area. Includes an output tothe Automatic Data Acquisition Unit. When used with the, the Digital Force Display outputs all four force signals at the same time to the Structures Software. The display automatically adjusts its range to the force.

Structures Test Frame

The frame has specially designed slots and self-positioning nuts that hold the Structures experiments and instruments. This fixing system is quick and easy to use. It allows students to change, position and secure each experiment. 
A lightweight yet strong bench-mounting frame that holds interchangeable experiment modules and instrumentation from the AII Structures  Tester range.
Adjustable feet support the frame to allow students to level the apparatus before use.
Supplied in kit form  with instructions for use and a text book.

Automatic Data Acquisition Unit

It allows data logging, analysis and extra virtual simulated experiments. It accepts inputsfrom a digital force display, a digital strain display, an angular sensor anddigital deflection indicators. It converts these inputs into the correct datasignals for the computer. The Automatic DataAcquisition Unit is an interface box with software that connects experiments from the Structures range to a suitable computer. The software can also simulate experiments which studentscan perform using the hardware, so they can compare simulated and real results. The software can then analyse the data and createtables and charts.

Parabolic Arch Fixed Ends Computer Interface

Computer interface unit and software are included. The Parabolic Arch Fixed Ends Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Moment Support and Horizontal Force Support are replaced by Moment Load Cell and Horizontal Force Load Cell.

Column Buckling

The Column Buckling equipment is used for studying strut buckling under load. Column Buckling is to be used with Universal Structural Frame or Universal Base Frame. A small lateral load is applied by means of a pulley and a weight hanger. A dial indicator measures the lateral deflection. The top frame has a loading screw which pushes a cylindrical strut support sliding in a bushing. Each strut has end conditions for knife edge or built in. The load reading is by an indicator. The bottom frame has a load cell and a cylindrical strut support in a socket.

Influence Line Apparatus

Influence Line Apparatus is to be used with Universal Base Frame or Universal Structural Frame. The bridge has a cantilever end sections and a suspended center section. The Influence Line Apparatus is used for studying the reactions under various conditions of load at all supports along a three span bridge. The deflection of the bridge can be measured by dial indicators. The location of the supports is adjustable. The supports are vertical force supports for measurement of loads.

Strain And Stress Of Material Computer Interface

A computer interface unit and software are provided. The Strain And Stress Of Material Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Load hanger and weights are replaced by Vertical Force Load Cell.

Virtual Work

It is to be used with Universal Structural Frame. An elastic beam is supported at both ends by moment supports. Both supports permit the application and measurement of moments and rotations. The Virtual Work equipment is used for applying the principle of virtual work to the derivation of redundant reactions. A third support, vertical force support, is used for the case of two span continuous beam. The deflection and slope of the beam can be measured by dial indicators. A clamp on moment application device with a mean to counter balance the device weight is provided to apply a pure moment and measure rotation. The beam is loaded by weights. 

Strain And Stress Of Material

Strain gauge are fixed at different locations of the beam specimen. Each gauge is wired to form a full bridge with temperature compensation and zero adjustment. Strain And Stress Of Material is to be used with Universal Base Frame. A beam is simply supported at both ends. Load is applied by a load hanger and weights. The Strain And Stress Of Material apparatus demonstrates the use of electrical resistance strain gauge in measuring strain of material under stress. Strain are measured by a strain indicator.

Shear Force Computer Interface

Universal Structural Frame or Universal Base Frame, Force Indicator and computer are required but separately supplied. The Shear Force Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except the spring and spring balance are replaced by a load cell. Computer interface unit and software is included. 

Continuous Beam Computer Interface

Computer interface unit and software are included. The Continuous Beam Computer Interface set has the same accessories as Vertical Force Supports are replaced by Vertical Force Load Cells with digital indicators.

Three Hinged Arch Computer Interface

Computer interface unit and software are included. The Three Hinged Arch Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Horizontal Force Support is replaced by Horizontal Force Load Cell. 

Tensile Modulus Of Elasticity

Tensile Modulus Of Elasticity is to be used with Universal Structural Frame. The rod is mounted between two gripping heads and a load of upto 3 kN is applied by means of a screw with turning wheel. Elongation of the gauge length is measured by two dial indicators. Tensile Modulus Of Elasticity equipment is used for studying the modulus of elasticity of materials in the form of rods. The load is measured by a force indicator.

Simple Suspension Bridge Computer Interface

A computer interface unit and software are included. The Simple Suspension Bridge Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Vertical Load Cell is used instead of load hanger and weights. 

Three Dimensional Equilibrium

The Three Dimensional Equilibrium equipment is used for studying the equilibrium of five concurrent and non-concurrent forces in a three dimensional system. A vertical load with a cord is applied at one of the joints. Each cord is marked out a 100 mm length. Two mirrors are attached on two adjacent side walls and transparent plates with transparent graph grids are attached on the other two side walls. Four cords, each with a load hanger outside the frame, pass over the pulleys and meet inside the frame concurrently or non-concurrently with an additional cord between two joints. By aligning each marked cord to the mirror, its coordinates in space can be measured. A rigid box frame has four swiveling pulleys at the top corners and leveling screws at the legs.

Continuous Beam

Continuous Beam is to be used with Universal Structural Frame. The settlement of each load measuring support is measured by a dial gauge and can be simulated by height compensation mechanism. The Continuous Beam equipment consists of a two span continuous beam supported by two vertical force supports and a built-in/knife edge support. The Continuous Beam equipment is used for measurement of the reactions of a two span continuous beam with and without settlement of a support. Each beam deflection is measured by a dial indicator. Three movable load hangers with a set of weights for downward as well as upward loading are provided.

Two Hinged Parabolic Arch Computer Interface

Computer interface unit and software are included. The Two Hinged Parabolic Arch Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Horizontal Force Support is replaced by Horizontal Force Load Cell. 

Torsion Of Rods And Tubes Computer Interface

The Torsion Of Rods And Tubes Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Dial Indicator is replaced by Digital Indicator with output. Software is provided.

Shear Force And Bending Moment Computer Interface

Computer interface unit and software are included. Universal Structural Frame or Universal Base Frame, Force Indicator and computer are required but separately supplied. The Shear Force And Bending Moment Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except two spring balance are replaced by two load cells. 

Area Moment Method

Area Moment Method is to be used with Universal Structural Frame. The Area Moment Method equipment is used for verification of the deflections and slopes of a beam by area-moment method. The arm rotation is monitored by a dial indicator. The moment is applied and measured by load on the rotating arm. The beam deflection is measured by a dial indicator. The beam has two moment supports with a knife edge. The support allows longitudinal travel of the beam. Each support has a rotating arm.

Forces In Truss Computer Interface

A computer interface unit and software are provided. Universal Structural Frame Force Indicator and computer are required but separately supplied. The Forces In Truss Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except load hanger with weights and Dial Indicator is replaced by Vertical Force Load Cell with dial indicator. 

Deflection Of Frames Computer Interface

Deflection Of Frames Computer InterfaceThe Deflection Of Frames Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Moment Support is replaced by Moment Load Cell Horizontal Force Support is replaced by Horizontal Force Load Cell Dial Indicator is replaced by Digital Indicator. 
Software is included.

Shear Center

Shear Center is to be used with Universal Base Frame or Universal Structural Frame. Interchangeable beam specimens are made from 1.2 mm steel sheet or approximate equal with welded-on end plates and a central loading plate which has a provision at the bottom for loading at different eccentricities from the beam axis. A load is hung at the bottom of the central loading plate and two dial indicators are used to measure deflections of both ends of the plate. The Shear Center equipment is used for studying the plane of traverse loading without twisting for selected standard sections. The end plates are attached to two flanged supports. The plane of zero twist is the plane of shear center.

Virtual Work Computer Assist

Computer interface unit and software are included. The Virtual Work Computer Assist set has the same accessories as except Moment Supports are replaced by Moment Load Cells, and Vertical Force Support is replaced by Vertical Force Load Cell. 

Torsion And Bending

The apparatus consists of two columns attached to the base frame. One column has a top support for bending specimen, and a clamp for torsion specimen. The Torsion And Bending apparatus is used for torsion and bending tests on different materials. Torsion And Bending is to be used with Universal Base Frame or Universal Structural Frame. For torsion test, one end of the specimen is clamped to the column, and the other end is clamped to the pulley. A lever arm is attached to the specimen at any length from the first column. The other column also has a top support for bending specimen with a pulley freely rotes in the column. Angle of twist is measured by a dial gauge for the lever movement. Torque is measured by the load and the pulley diameter. For bending test, the specimen is placed on or clamped to the supports on top of the columns. Load is applied to the specimen and deflection is measured by a dial gauge. 

Area Moment Method Computer Interface

The Area Moment Method Computer Interface set has the same accessories as Moment Supports are replaced by Moment Load Cells.
Computer interface unit and software are included.

Deflection Of Curved Bars Computer Interface

A 16 channels computer interface unit and software are provided. Dial Indicator is replaced by Digital Indicator with output. The Deflection Of Curved Bars Computer Interface set has the same accessories.

Unsymmetrical Cantilever Computer Interface

The Unsymmetrical Cantilever Computer Interface set has the same accessories as except Dial Indicators are replaced by Digital Indicators with output.
Software is included.

Loading And Buckling Of Struts

The main part of the apparatus is a precision-engineered rigid aluminium base, with legs and levelling feet. At one end is a loading device which uses a screw to apply loads to the struts. The screw is in fixing blocks with bearings to give precise and easy load application. The Loading and Buckling of Struts allows tests on a full range of struts. They allow students to create any combination of pinned or clamped end conditions for the strut under test. Supplied is a set of special end fittings for tests with various eccentricities to show the effect of eccentric loading. It shows load and deflection characteristics and buckling loads for various strut lengths, Cross-section and end conditions. It also allows studies of the effect of eccentric loading. The equipment includes a lateral pull attachment for Students to apply light biasing loads, or larger side loads, as needed. Students can also set up the apparatus to examine flexural rigidity and general beam deflection theory. An optional set of extra specimens allows extra tests to show students some of the more complicated problems found in strut design. Holders are at both the loading and load measuring ends.
The two special struts show how buckling loads may be lower than the ideal values, because of two reasons:
Imperfect shearing connections between the parts of a compound strut
Flexure of the end fixings.

Equilibrium Of A Rigid Body

Students or teachers fit the magnetic parts of the kit to the Work Panel to study or demonstrate the forces around an inclined ladder-type structure. For use with the Work Panel the kit allows several experiments with a rigid body a ladder structure. The versatility of the kit means that you can adjust the ladder angle between more than 15 to 45 degrees and try it with or without a climbing mass at any position along its length. The kit holds a model ladder at different angles with or without a climbing mass and measures the horizontal and vertical forces. Supplies each kit with a fully illustrated user guide containing theory, experiments and typical results.

Fixed Arch

The student guide describes how to use the equipment and gives experiment procedures. For extra virtual experiments, can supply the optional Structures Software for use on a suitable computer. The experiment hardware fits onto a Structures Test Frame. To load the arch, students fit masses on weight hangers to set positions along the arch span. This measures the fixed moment reaction. At the other end, a load cell measures the horizontal thrust. The equipment includes leads to connect the load cells to a Digital Force Display. Both ends of the arch are fixed. At one end of the arch, a moment arm rests on a load cell. They also extend the choice of tests than that available using only the hardware, for example: higher loads, uniform loads or different test specimens. This extends the students learning experience. The lecturer guide provides details of the equipment including sample experiments results. For automatic data acquisition of your experiment results,can supply the optional Automatic Data. The virtual experiments simulate the tests that you do with the hardware. Refer to the Structures Software datasheet for full details.

Bending Stress In A Beam Apparatus

An inverted aluminium T-beam is mounted between two simple supports on knife edges. The load onto the T-beam is applied using a fine screw jack mechanism with integral load cell. A standalone experiment for determining the bending stresses and strains across the surface of a T-beam. The load cell arrangement and supports create a three (3) point loading.
These strain gauges are paired with temperature compensation dummy gauges for output stability. A number of precision strain gauges are arranged on the T-beam specimen. Each strain gauge pair is numbered for accurate connection to the Interface.

Redundant Truss

Load is applied to the truss by a screw jack mechanism with integral load cell. An extra diagonal member with its length adjustable by a simple mechanism is provided to make the first bay of the Redundant Truss. Each Redundant Truss member incorporates a strain gauge bridge arrangement for direct measurement of strain. The 45° two bay truss consists of seven members with pinned joints cantilevered from the vertical member of the Universal Frame and Stand using an upper springing and supported by a roller bearing on a vertical track at the lower springing. 

Deflections of Beams

Two steel beams are supplied, each having a different thickness, thus allowing the effect of beam thickness and length on deflection to be studied. Two movable vertical beam supports allow the fixing of knife-edges to their tops to create a simply supported arrangement for the study of Deflections of Beams. Each support can be moved anywhere within the working area of the Universal Frame and Stand and allows a variety of beam spans to be achieved. Apart from the large difference in second moments of area (nearly 1 to 4.5) it will be found that the stiffer beam is more accurate experimentally, while the more flexible beam exaggerates the deflected shape and is visually instructive.
Each clamp can be positioned anywhere along the working length of the beam, and can be quickly and easily removed and re-positioned. A set of calibrated test weights and load hangers creates the loads. Three load hangers supplied ensure a variety of loads can be applied to the Deflections of Beams. Each hanger is attached to the beam via beam clamps.

Equilibrium of Forces

A force board is clamped into the working area of Universal Frame and Stand single and double pulleys sets can be fixed round the perimeter of the to produce an infinite variety of multi-directional forces in a vertical plane. Two cord rings held together by a short cord are used for non-concurrent force experiments. The lines of action of the cords are transferred onto a sheet of paper clipped to the force board using the board clips provided. By using a single cord ring (concurrent forces), up to six cords can be attached and the cords tensioned with load hangers and weights to obtain Equilibrium of Forces. The set of weights for the experiment is included.

Unsymmetrical Bending And Shear Centre Apparatus

A U section, L section and rectangular beam cantilever is horizontally supported within a rotating clamp which fits in a substantial frame attached to the Universal Frame and Stand The rotating clamp enables the loading and deflection planes to be set relative to the cross section axes. Experiment investigating the Unsymmetrical Bending And Shear Centre Apparatus of different sectioned beams when the loading is not in the plane of a principal axis. A protractor scale is fitted to the substantial block and a pointer on the specimen references against this scale.

Suspended Centre Span Bridge

The Suspended Centre Span Bridge is supported on the two inner piers and is anchored to the two outer piers to provide a pair of cantilevers on which the suspended centre span is carried. The Suspended Centre Span Bridge model three span bridge has a flat deck and solid spandrels to the three spans. The Suspended Centre Span Bridge is loaded using either point loads (25 or 10N) or through a tandem rolling load of 25 + 10N value. The four piers and the centre span supports incorporate reaction measuring load cells that connect directly to the Interface to give readings in Newtons. The tandem load can be arranged such that the 10N load is leading or trailing. The tandem loads are linked thus simulating a vehicle passing over the bridge deck. By separating the tandem loads it is possible to obtain the influence lines for the bridge.

Experimental Capabilities:
Use of the influence lines for a tandem rolling load
Production of influence lines for all six reactions.

Torsion of Rods and Tubes

The Torsion of Rods and Tubes is mounted onto a bearing shaft, which is rotated using a thumb wheel and fine worm/wheel gearing mechanism integral to the torsion head. The Torsion of Rods and Tubes comprises of a torsion head at one end and a fixed tailstock at the other, between which are held a variety of torsion specimens in three (3) jaw chucks. 
The thumb wheel and gearing applies known torque to the torsion specimen, whilst an integral load cell records the torque force being applied. The signals from the load cell and angular position sensor is fed directly into the Interface. Fine rotational movement, in each direction, of each chuck allows accurate alignment of the Torsion of Rods and Tubes specimens. An angular position sensor is also mounted at the torsion head end to monitor the angular twist of the torsion specimens. Each torsion specimen has profiled ends to match the clamping pattern of the chucks.

Experimental Capabilities:
Comparison of the extended theory of torsion for a hollow square section member with experimental values
Verification of the classical theory of torsion in circular section rods and tubes
Comparison of a tube and a similar tube with a 1mm slit along the length
Shear modulus
Polar moment of inertia
Modulus of Rigidity, G. 

Forces in a Truss (Resolution)

A two bay, 45° cantilevered truss is suspended from the inside vertical edge of the Universal Frame and Stand. Each Forces in a Truss member is joined at its end by means of pins, which make up the true pin jointed assembly. A comprehensive instruction manual for lecturer and student, giving full details on apparatus assembly and operation as well as example results. All necessary assembly and operational tools are provided. The strain and hence force exerted in each member is measured using strain gauge technology applied to each truss member. At the far end of the truss a screwjack loading mechanism with integral load cell applying the Forces in a Truss loading. The outputs from the member strain gauges and screw jack load cell are fed directly into the Interface.

Experimental Capabilities:
Measure strains exerted on each truss member
To view compressive and tensile forces/strains
To compare experimental results with the member forces calculated by resolution of the forces at joints
To measure the axial strain and hence force in each member of a pin-jointed truss for comparison with calculated theoretical values.

Pin Jointed Frameworks Apparatus

The Pin Jointed Frameworks Apparatus mount onto two end supports. One support has a pivoting arrangement whilst the other has pivoting and rolling arrangement. Each framework member has a strain gauge arrangement attached. The signal from the loading mechanism and strain gauges is fed directly into the Interface. The loads on the Pin Jointed Frameworks Apparatus are applied at known joints by using the screwjack loading mechanism supplied.
The Pin Jointed Frameworks Apparatus enables students to assemble two Pin-Jointed Frameworks (warren and basic roof truss) to measure the strains (hence stresses) and joint deflections. Each member of the framework can be easily interconnected with each other by use of simple joints that are designed to create a truly pin joint.

Equilibrium of Parallel Forces

The Equilibrium of Parallel Forces are produced with cords tensioned by weights on hangers, double pulleys being used to turn the upward forces downward. A Equilibrium of Parallel Forces board is clamped into the Universal Frame and Stand Two acrylic models engraved to simulate a 'Warren' and an 'N' truss are used for the application of vertical loads and reactions. The lines of action of the cords can be transferred onto a sheet of paper clipped to the force board. The set of weights needed for the experiment is included. A circular disc with twelve attachment points is used for the couples. To simplify the results each acrylic model has a counterbalancing weight to render each one 'weightless'. 

Experimental Capabilities:
Special case where equal and opposite parallel forces produce a couple acting on a body
Equilibrium of opposing couples
Verify the conditions of equilibrium when sets of parallel forces act in one plane on a rigid body
Experimental verification of the use of a link polygon and is a test of M = 0 (where M = moments)
Fv = 0 (where F = forces and V = vertical).

Continuous And Indeterminate Beams Apparatus

Continuous and Indeterminate Beams Apparatus a fourth pier clamps a cantilever or the fixed end of a beam. A double pulley assembly provides vertical loading of the beam. Each pier caters for simply supported, or Continuous and Indeterminate Beams Apparatus and their beam attachments allow for rotation but no vertical movement during testing. Point loads and uniformly distributed loads can be applied to the beams using the set of calibrated weights and hangers supplied. Sinking supports can be studied due to the fact that each reaction pier has a height adjustment system and integral dial gauge attached. Three piers measure vertical reaction forces with their integral load cell which connect directly to the Interface. 

Deflection of Frame

Horizontal reactions are monitored using the integral load cell within the track plate and its output fed into the Interface Deflection of Frame and sway is measured using the dial gauges supplied. 
A 'rectangular' Portal frame and an 'S' frame made from rectangular solid steel section are provided with a range of fixed or pinned ends and simple supports to enable each frame to be set up in the Universal Frame and Stand and loaded horizontally and vertically. 
Load hangers, calibrated weights, cords and pulleys are provided to apply vertical and/or horizontal loading to the frames. One end of the portal frame pivots on a knife edge, while the other end is free to move horizontally on a track plate against a load cell.

Experimental Capabilities:
Study the load, horizontal reactions, deflections, sway in portal frames
Comparison of experimental results with theoretical values derived using Castigliano's theorem and numerical analysis by Simpson's rule.

Universal Frame and Stand

The floor mounting frame can be easily converted to a bench-mounted version when using the bench mounting feet arrangement which is supplied as standard. The internal working dimensions for mounting experiments are 1.22m x 0.76m. Manufactured from high quality, ergonomic aluminium profile, the Universal Frame and Stand comprises an upper dual frame, which creates a continuous mounting slot around all four sides of the frame thus allowing the individual experiment components to be interchanged quickly. Should specimen beams longer than 1.22metres be used, the working gap allows the beams to run through the frame and protrude outside the working area.

Plastic Bending of Portals

A proportioning bar is held horizontally by loading chains that run to the Plastic Bending of Portals and to the screwjack loading mechanism (with integral load cell). Two portal frames (pitched and rectangular) are mounted within two ground supports, in either a pinned or fixed condition. Depending on the position of the loading mechanism on the proportioning bar depends on the extent of the load being applied either horizontally or vertically.

Experimental Capabilities:
Determines the increase in collapse load as the degree of redundancy increases
Verifies that hinges occur at positions of greatest bending moment
Studies the change in the collapse mechanism as the ratio of horizontal to vertical load is varied.

Bench Mounted Frame

The dual frame and jointing methods, allow a load capacity up to 5000N (5kN) to be applied. The internal working dimensions for mounting experiments are 1.22m x 0.76m. Should specimen beams longer than 1.22metres be used, the working gap allows the beams to run through the frame and protrude outside the working area.
Manufactured from high quality, ergonomic aluminium profile, Bench Mounted Frame comprises an upper dual frame, which creates a continuous mounting slot around all four sides of the frame thus allowing the individual experiment components to be interchanged quickly and efficiently.
The frame comes fitted with height adjustable tilting feet to enable the frame to be levelled accurately prior to use. To aid assembly a comprehensive instruction manual and tools are supplied as standard.
Backward compatibility of design allows this aluminium frame to accommodate all experiments and accessories used within the original steel frame.

Interface Unit

The experiment hardware transducers are wired into the Interface Unit using front mounted, quick connect screw terminals. The integral 4 line, backlit LCD displays only the parameters being fed into it by the experiment hardware. The Interface Unit can be run standalone with the experiment hardware OR in parallel with the experimental software (software only supplied when experiment hardware purchased with dedicated. 

Two Hinged Arches

They have the curved shape, of an arch, which can be circular or parabolic. Arches are the structures, which look somewhat different from the columns and beam. 

Plastic Deflection Of Beam Apparatus

This teaching apparatus enables a range of laboratory, classroom and computer-based experiments to introduce civil, mechanical and structural engineering students to plastic theory and limit state design.

Plastic Deflection of Portal

Plastic Bending of Portals teaching apparatus enables a range of laboratory, classroom and computer-based experiments for civil, mechanical and structural engineering students studying plastic theory and limit state design in portal frames.

Suspension Bridge Apparatus

The apparatus is equally suitable for student experiments or demonstrations. Model consists of a three-hinged deck suspended by ties from a light cable. This bench-mounted apparatus is used to investigate the structure under a wide range of load conditions. Cable can be readily adjusted to give different values of dip over the 1m span.

Buckling of Struts Equipment

Buckling of Struts Equipment

Frame Bench And Floor mounted

Frame Bench And Floor mounted

Equilibrium Of A Beam Apparatus

Equilibrium Of A Beam Apparatus

Suspension Cable Demonstration

For use with the Work Panel the kit allows several experiments with a suspension cable.
The versatility of the kit means that you can create symmetrical and non-symmetrical cables, with point loads or with evenly-spread loads.
Students or teachers fit the magnetic parts of the kit to the Work Panel to study or demonstrate the shapes and tensions in a suspension cable.
The kit compares a suspension cable with a catenary cable and analyses results using catenary and parabolic theory.
It includes a roller chain (the cable), held by magnetically mounted sprocket pulleys and a set of weight hangers and weights. Spring balances measure the tension in the cable.

Experiments:
Comparison of a symmetrical suspension cable and catenary
Unsymmetrical suspension cable
Analysis using catenary and parabola theory
A point load on a suspension cable
Cable weight and tension.

Deflection Of Beams And Cantilevers

Test beams fit onto the backboard using a rigid clamp and knife-edge supports. Students apply loads at any position using hangers holding various masses. The experiment hardware consists of a backboard that fixes to the Multi Structures Test Frame.
The indicator measures beam deflection. Scales on the backboard show the position of the indicator, the loads and supports. Mounted on a trammel, a digital deflection indicator traverses the beam.

Features:
High-quality structures teaching module for students of mechanical, civil and structural engineering
For study of beam deflection under different loads and fixing conditions
Realistic and verifiable experiment results
Optional AII's Structures Software package for extra virtual experiments that simulate and confirm the results from your hardware and allow extended experiments
Allows safe and practical experiments into deflections of beams and cantilevers
Ideal for classroom demonstrations, or students working in pairs or small groups
Optional unit including AII's Structures Software package for automatic data acquisition and virtual experiments
One of many interchangeable experiment modules from AII's modern, flexible and cost-effective Structures teaching system.

Shear Force In A Beam

A mechanism bridges the cut, which stops the beam collapsing and allows movement in the shear direction only. An electronic load cell measures the force, and connects to a Multi-Channel Digital Transducer Display.
The beam fits onto a Multi Structures Test Frame. The experiment hardware is a simply supported beam with a cut. Students apply loads at set positions using hangers holding various masses.

Features:
Allows safe and practical experiments into shear force in a beam
Realistic and verifiable experiment results
Shows and proves the basic theory of shear force in a beam
High-quality structures teaching module for students of mechanical, civil and structural engineering
Ideal for classroom demonstrations, or students working in pairs or small groups
Optional unit with AIIs Structures Software package for automatic data acquisition and virtual experiments
One of many interchangeable experiment modules from AIIs modern, flexible and cost-effective Structures teaching system
Optional AIIs Structures Software package for extra virtual experiments that simulate and confirm the results from your hardware and allow extended experiments.

Torsion Of Circular Sections

The experiments hardware fits onto a Structures Test Frame .It examines the behavior in the elastic region of solid and tubular-section specimens.
The lecturer guide provides details of the equipment including sample experiment results. The student guide describes how to use the equipment and gives experiment procedures.
A load cell on the other chuck measures torque. The equipment includes a lead to connect the load cell to a Digital Force Display. To vary the test length of a specimen, one chuck can traverse the backboard. Two chucks on a backboard hold a test specimen. A mechanism on one chuck applies torque manually to the specimen. A protractor scale on this chuck measures angular movement. Included is an electronic angular transducer for use with the optional Automatic Data Acquisition Unit.
The virtual experiments simulate the tests you can perform with the hardware. They also extend the choice of tests beyond that available using only the hardware, for example: higher loads, uniform loads or different test specimens. For extra experiments, AII can supply the optional AII Structures Software for use on a suitable computer. This extends the students learning experience.
For automatic data acquisition of your experiment results, AII can supply the optional Automatic Data Acquisition Unit Supplied as standard with the is AII Structures Software which displays and logs your experiment results and gives the extra virtual experiments.

Redundant Truss Apparatus

Experiments:
Study Of Strains, Stresses, Forces And Deflections In:
A Statically Indeterminate Structure
A Statically Determinate Structure
Operating Conditions
Operating Environment: Laboratory
Operating Relative Humidity Range:
80% At Temperatures < 31c Decreasing Linearly To 50% At 40c
Storage Temperature Range: 25c To +55c (When Packed For Transport)
Operating Temperature Range: +5c To +40c.

Statics Work Panel

For use with Statics Fundamentals range, the Work Panel fits on most desk or bench tops. Fundamentals kits to the Work Panel to study or demonstrate one of the fundamental topics of static forces. Students or teachers fit the magnetic parts of their Statics. 

Available Experiment Modules
Equilibrium Of Forces
Equilibrium Of A Beam
Suspension Cable Demonstration
Equilibrium Of A Rigid Body

Bending Moments in a Beam Apparatus

The beam fixes to the Multi Structures Test Frame. Students apply loads at set positions using hangers holding various masses. The experiment hardware is a simply supported beam cut by a pivot. A Multi-Channel Digital Transducer Display displays forces during experiments. To stop the beam collapsing, a moment arm bridges the cut onto a load cell thus reacting (and measuring) the bending moment force.

Features:
Allows safe and practical experiments into bending moments in a beam
Realistic and verifiable experiment results
High-quality structures teaching module for students of mechanical, civil and structural engineering
One of many interchangeable experiment modules from AIIs modern, flexible and cost-effective Structures teaching system
Ideal for classroom demonstrations, or students working in pairs or small groups.
Shows and proves the basic theory of bending moments in a beam
Optional AIIs Structures Software package for extra virtual experiments that simulate and confirm the results from your hardware and allow extended experiments
Optional unit with AIIs Structures Software package for automatic data acquisition and virtual experiments.

Simple Suspension Bridge

The suspension cable passes over pulleys at each end. One end is rigidly fixed. The other end connects to a mechanism bearing on a load cell. The experiment hardware fits onto the Structures Test Frame. Students use masses on weight hangers to apply various loads to a rigid deck, joined to a parabolic cable via hangers. The equipment includes a signal cable to connect the load cell to a Digital Force Display). When connected to a Digital Force Display, the load cell measures the cable tension. 

Experiments:
Examination of the relationship between applied loads and the suspension cable tension
Demonstration of the characteristics of a simple suspension bridge
Comparison of behaviour to simplified cable theory
Observation of the stability of the structure.