IB Design Technology Topic B3.2: Structural Systems Application and Selection Key Definitions

A force that causes a material to curve, involving both tension (on one side) and compression (on the opposite side).

A force that squeezes a material or causes it to shorten.

A state of balance where equal and opposite forces act on a system.

A computerised simulation method that breaks down a model into small elements to analyse how it responds to physical forces.

A force diagram (or free-body diagram) shows all the forces acting on a structure or object. These include applied loads, reactions at supports, and internal forces like tension and compression.

The ratio of the maximum load a structure can bear to its expected load.

Two equal and opposite forces acting on an object that are not aligned, creating a cutting effect.

Structural failure occurs when a product or structure can no longer carry the load it was designed for, often leading to deformation or breakage.

The parts of a product that resist loads, such as the shell, framework, or solid structure, helping it maintain strength and stability.

A pulling or stretching force that acts to extend a material.

A twisting force.

A measure of a material’s stiffness, defined as stress divided by strain.