Truss Design Project
Riley Ovalle
Project Timeline
Oct 2024 - Nov-2024
OVERVIEW
Designed, analyzed, and fabricated a 3D-printed truss to span a 150 mm gap and withstand a target vertical point load of 200 N. The design is a modified King Post truss, optimized by reducing the length of compressive members to minimize buckling. Comprehensive structural analysis predicted a failure load of 982.349 N. Experimental testing confirmed the design's superior performance, achieving an ultimate failure load of 1339.4 N. The final truss weighed 0.1136 kilograms and surpassed the predicted strength-to-weight ratio of 910.1.
HighlightS
- Engineered a highly efficient truss design by splitting key diagonal members to reduce their length, preventing a King Post design's failure due to buckling.
- Optimized member geometry using a dog bone design to increase the cross-sectional area at connections.
- Specifically made compressive members thicker by 6mm to significantly increase the Moment of Inertia against buckling.
- The design failed at a load of 1339.4 N, significantly surpassing the analytically predicted failure load of 982.3 N. Exceeded theoretical performance by 36%
SKILLS
Structural Analysis 3D Modeling Failure PredictionForce Analysis Factor of Safety Calculation
Riley Ovalle
Mechanical Engineering Student
I am a motivated mechanical engineering student at Louisiana Tech University with hands-on experience in fabrication, soldering, 3D modeling, and programming. Proficient in SolidWorks(CSWA), Mathcad, Python, and simulation tools, I have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in team environments and effectively communicate technical concepts. I have developed automation systems using Arduino and sensors, designed components for eco-car competitions, and led teams as an Eagle Scout. Currently seeking opportunities to contribute to innovative engineering projects while expanding my technical skills and knowledge.
I am a motivated mechanical engineering student at Louisiana Tech University with hands-on experience in fabrication, soldering, 3D modeling, and programming. Proficient in SolidWorks(CSWA), Mathcad, Python, and simulation tools, I have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in team environments and effectively communicate technical concepts. I have developed automation systems using Arduino and sensors, designed components for eco-car competitions, and led teams as an Eagle Scout. Currently seeking opportunities to contribute to innovative engineering projects while expanding my technical skills and knowledge.
| lowinertia |
Build Your Engineering Portfolio