3.3. Local Coordinate System

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define a local coordinate system.

   Hint

   Think of it as a way to zoom in on specific parts of structures.

2. 2.

   What is FEA?

   Hint

   Remember the process of simplification in analysis.

3. 3.

   What does a local coordinate system do?

   • A fixed reference
   • Specific for elements
   • Uniform for all structures

   Hint

   Focus on the specificity rather than generality.

4. 4.

   True or False: Transformation is the process of fixing coordinates.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the purpose of coordinate systems.

5. 5.

   Given a beam with defined global coordinates, derive the local coordinate system using a rotation matrix.

   Hint

   Visualizing the rotation graphically aids in understanding.

6. 6.

   A load of 1000 N is distributed unevenly across a truss with both local and global analyses. How would inaccuracies in this distribution impact the truss?

   Hint

   Think about the consequences telling a structural story with numbers.