Integration of Numerical, Theoretical & Experimental Methods for the Calculation and Measurement of Strains in an Experimental Stress Analysis Lecture

This work provides a description of a numerical, theoretical and experimental study for assessing stresses during elastic behaviour of metallic structures by employing, theoretical, numerical and experimental data obtained from strain gages. A systematic protocol is presented for sorting and analysis of the resulting data for the purposes of undergraduate mechanical engineering lectures as its impact on the expected competencies and abilities of the students is discussed. 3D models of an experimental testbed are proposed for analysing by Finite Element Method (FEM). In addition, these models have been also evaluated by solid mechanics theory, calculating elastic strains as the result of loads applied to the structure. Simultaneously, a demonstrative methodology is suggested for connecting type T strain gages (two perpendicular grids), to an embedded data acquisition system, so that the strains measured can be recorded. The results obtained show significant consistency between the methods with a maximum error around of 10% within the studied range. A discussion is provided for regarding means of encouraging improvement in the skills of undergraduate students in measuring strains through these systematic methods.