In structural engineering, support refers to the element or system that holds a structure in place and prevents it from collapsing. Different types of support are used in the design of structures to ensure stability and proper load distribution. Here are some common types of support in structural design:
1.Fixed Support:
Fixed supports restrain both translation and rotation of a structure. They provide maximum resistance to movement and are often represented by a pin or roller support at one end and a built-in support at the other end.
2.Pinned Support :
Pinned supports allow rotation at the support, but they do not permit translation. They are typically represented as a hinge and allow the structure to rotate freely at that point.
3.Roller Support:
A roller support allows translation in one direction and rotation around one axis. It is often represented by a wheel-like element that can move horizontally along the surface.
Hinged Support:
Similar to a pinned support, a hinged support allows rotation but restricts translation. It is often represented as a hinge and is used to allow rotation at a specific location.
Guided Support:
Guided supports allow movement in one direction while preventing movement in other directions. They are often used to allow for thermal expansion or contraction of a structure.
Floating Support:
A floating support allows translation and rotation in all directions. It is essentially a free support, allowing a structure to move freely in response to external forces.
Elastic Support:
Elastic supports provide flexibility to a structure, allowing it to deform under load and return to its original position once the load is removed. This type of support is often used in seismic design.
Sliding Support:
A sliding support allows translation in one direction while preventing movement in other directions. It is often used to accommodate thermal expansion or contraction.
Spring Support:
Spring supports provide a degree of flexibility to a structure, allowing it to deform under load and then return to its original position. Springs are often used in conjunction with other types of supports.
The choice of support type depends on various factors, including the structural requirements, material properties, and the nature of external loads and environmental conditions. Structural engineers carefully consider these factors to design a stable and safe structure.
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