In this chapter, you will conduct static analysis of multi-body structures. Broadly defined, a structure is any set of interconnected rigid bodies designed to serve a purpose. The parts of the structure may move relative to one another, like the blades of scissors, or they may be fixed relative to one another, like the structural members of a bridge.
Analysis of structures involves determining all forces acting on and between individual members of the structure. Fundamentally there is nothing new here; the techniques you have already learned apply, however, structures tend to have more unknown forces, and so are more involved and provide more opportunities for error than the problems you have previously encountered. Correct free-body diagrams and careful work are required, as always.
