Suspension Dock
Mathematical Modeling
Explore the forces and design of this dock.
Introduction
A post on social media: "Any of you guys have any experience with a suspension dock? I just completed mine. I think it should be ok but im no engineer, (just an idiot with an impact driver). I tapered the holes for the back post and concreted them in. Front post are sitting on concret cookies. Hoping that the front dont sink and back ones pull up. Holds my 240 pounds ok so far. 20' long 6' wide. Pond still a cple feet low. Hopefully it works out for the long haul but im not holding my breath lol"
Guiding Questions
- What mathematical models apply to this situation?
- What data do you need to collect and how will you analyze it?
- What assumptions are you making in your mathematical model?
- How can you validate your mathematical conclusions?
- What are the limitations of your approach?
Key Mathematical Concepts
Forces
Catenary Curves
Engineering
Suspension Bridges