In the field of engineering mechanics, a zero force member is a member (a single truss segment) in a truss which, given a specific load, is at rest: neither in tension, nor in compression. If three members meet in an unloaded joint of which two are collinear, then the third member is a zero-force member.

Methods of analysis of trusses: The two common methods of analysis of trusses are the method of joint and the method of section (or moment).

SIMPLE TRUSSES If a truss, along with the imposed load, lies in a single plane (as shown at the top right), then it is called a planar truss. A truss is a structure composed of slender members joined together at their end points.

If a joint has only two non-collinear members and there is no external load or support reaction at that joint, then those two members are zero-force members. Zero-force members can be removed (as shown in the figure) when analyzing the truss.

Zero-Force Members: structural members that support No loading but aid in the stability of the truss. Two-Force Members: structural members that are: a) subject to no applied or reaction moments, and b) are loaded only at 2 pin joints along the member.

Trusses are structures that are composed entirely of two-force members. Each member of a truss is assumed to be a straight member that can only have forces applied on the ends of that member. The ends are pinned together so that they allow rotation.

A truss is a structure composed of rod members arranged to form one or more triangles. The joints are pinned (do not transmit moments) so that the members must be triangulated. A frame, on the other hand, is a structure that consists of arbitrarily oriented beam members which are connected rigidly or by pins at joints.

In summary, a member is categorized as a truss and frame by the way it is connected at its ends which determines its ability to carry certain types of loads. Truss members are free to rotate and can only carry axial loads, whereas frame members are rigidly connected and can support all load types.

A truss-frame consists of a roof truss and a floor truss joined by exterior wall studs. The wide variety of possible roof and floor truss designs and combinations is illustrated by figure 1. End walls may be truss-framed with field-assembled stud infill, prefabricated in conventional construction, or built on site.

Some of the most recognizable examples of frame structures include spider webs, ladders, bicycles and the Eiffel Tower. Whereas shell structures such as eggs and coffee mugs use exterior strength to retain their shape when bearing a load on the inside, frame structures are designed to bear external loads.

Beam can’t transmit load in vertical direction while truss can. Truss can’t transmit load in vertical direction while beam can. Beam can’t transmit load in axial direction while truss can.

In this experiment we have tested which type of truss bridge is the strongest, yet uses the least amount of material. Two of the most used truss bridges are of the Pratt and Howe design. Through our experiment it was found that the bridge design that minimized the maximum compression force was the Howe Bridge.

Trusses are used in a broad range of buildings, mainly where there is a requirement for very long spans, such as in airport terminals, aircraft hangers, sports stadia roofs, auditoriums and other leisure buildings. Trusses are also used to carry heavy loads and are sometimes used as transfer structures.

Generally, the overall efficiency of a truss is optimised by using less material in the chords and more in the bracing elements. This is particularly more useful over longer spans over alternatives such as concrete beams or prestressed concrete.

Based on the incremental deflection averages, the truss bridge is 10.0736 stronger than the span/beam bridge and 3.4561 stronger than the arch bridge. While the arch bridge is 2.9147 stronger than the span/beam bridge.

Maximize the Design Efficiency – The design efficiency can be calculated as Efficiency = Total Load Supported (lbs) / Truss Model Self-Weight (lbs) (Note: that the Total Load Supported in calculating the Efficiency is capped at the required load level of 30 lbs.)

TOP CHORD An inclined or horizontal member that establishes the upper edge of a truss. This member is subjected to compressive and bending stresses.

lay a 4×8 3/4 sheet of plywood on each end of the truss on the bottom chord spanning to the two trusses on each side of the one to be cut. this is done to hold the bottom chord from pushing the wall out.

Gable End or Piggyback They are not triangulated and must be supported along the entire length of the bottom chord. Piggyback trusses are basically filler trusses to fill in a roof space at “T” roof junctions. When supported on the end wall of a building they are called “Gable Ends”.

3. __________________ are the inclined members of a Truss. Explanation: The lower and upper hip rafter is generally supported on a diagonal piece of wood that is laid across the corner of the wall. This diagonal piece is known as a Dragon Beam or a dragon Tie or angle Tie.

The angle, or pitch, of a roof is calculated by the number of inches it rises vertically for every 12 inches it extends horizontally. For example, a roof that rises 6 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run has a 6-in-12 pitch.

The most common type of light wood truss.” Ganged wood trusses are defined as, “A truss designed to be installed as an assembly of two or more individual light wood trusses fastened together to act as one.” …

Common types of roof truss

• King Post truss. A king post truss is typically used for short spans.
• Queen Post truss. A queen post truss is typically a vertical upright with two triangles either side.
• Fink truss.
• Double Pitch Profile truss.
• Mono Pitch Truss.
• Scissor Truss (also known as Vaulted Truss)
• Raised Tie Truss.