|
A machinist receives an order from a railway company for a "cushion piston" consisting of two inter-sliding hollow cylinders. (Think of a large version of the spring loaded cylinder of a toilet roll dispensor.) The piston specifications state that a force of 10,000 lb should compress the piston a distance of 2 ft. To cut down on cost, the machinist would like to use some springs he has in stock. However, these springs compress only 1 ft with a force of 10,000 lb. (That is, F = kx where k = 10,000 lb/ft.) The diameter of the cylinders are large enough to accommodate two springs in either of the two arrangements shown. How should the machinist construct the piston, as shown in diagram A or as shown in diagram B? Be sure to carefully explain your choice. |
 |
Be sure to enter your full name. Enter your email address if you want the number of points awarded e-mailed back to you. Responses should be brief but complete. You must click the SUBMIT button to submit your entry. (You should receive a "Thank You" reply almost immediately.) Entries are due by noon on Monday of next week.
NOTE: Only your first submission will be accepted!