Concurrent structural analysis and experimentation using the “AN/EX” mini‐laboratory

A new, practical, computer‐assisted laboratory has been developed for teaching structural engineering. Using the portable “AN/EX” mini‐laboratory, students first predict the behavior of a small‐scale model using the M‐STRUDL structural analysis program. Then, they employ electronic sensors to record the physical response of the loaded model. Immediately thereafter, the analytical M‐STRUDL predictions and experimental data are compared graphically. An expert system “trouble‐shooter” is being developed to assist in resolving differences between the analytical predictions and the concurrent experimental data.