Unsymmetrical Cantilever

The Unsymmetrical Cantilever Apparatus is a precision-engineered teaching tool designed to illustrate the deflection behaviour of cantilever beams under various loading scenarios. It allows students to accurately measure both vertical and horizontal deflections at the free end of a test specimen subjected to loads either along a principal axis or at a defined angle. This apparatus is particularly valuable for exploring structural deformation, bending, and shear centre principles in strength of materials coursework.

The system comprises a robust, compact base with a rigid vertical frame capable of accommodating up to three cantilever specimens. Each cantilever is held securely in place using a precision chuck that permits angular adjustment and ensures rigid end fixing during experiments. An integrated angular scale provides accurate orientation measurement of the test specimens.

Supplied with three distinct cantilevers: U-shaped, L-shaped, and rectangular, the apparatus enables the application of vertical point loads at the free end via hangers and weights. Deflections are recorded using high-accuracy digital deflection indicators, which are mounted on a cantilever boss. This configuration supports offset loading for shear centre investigations using the included shear load attachment.

A durable support frame holds the digital indicators in alignment with the fixed end, ensuring consistent and accurate deflection readings. Adjustable stands allow for precise zeroing of each indicator prior to testing.

Learning Objectives:

• Vertical and horizontal deflection of unsymmetrical cantilevers​
• Mohr’s circle​
• Moment of area​
• Shear center location​
• Comparison between actual and theoretical results