Frames and machines2D
Excavator or crane linkage
Disassemble connected rigid members, preserve action-reaction pairs, and calculate force transformation through mechanisms.
Open the complete lessonInteractive engineering simulation
Excavator and Crane Linkage
Explore how linkage geometry changes cylinder force and pin-force direction in a crane-like mechanism.
Rigid-body statics
explore task
The cylinder is a two-force member; its force must lie along the line between its pins.Two-force link
15.62 kN compression
Pin-pair check
0.00000 kN
Equilibrium residual
0.000000
A member pinned at only two ends with no intermediate load is treated as a two-force member. Otherwise, retain all pin components and moments required by equilibrium.
Diagrams are schematic equilibrium models. Member lines do not show elastic deformation, buckling, connection flexibility, or second-order effects.
Model scope and verification
Use the displayed units and idealizations, then verify the governing balance or compatibility equation before interpreting the result.