Levers
A Structural Concept:
Greenledge Studios
T h i n k hard, work
soft
Levers are tools which employ a principle which is also useful in understanding the design of sturdy structures.
Levers amplify or reduce forces by using the concept of torque conservation. Torque is the product of the distance from point of rotation and the force applied to a structural member or beam. If the member is stationary, the net torque is said to be zero. By applying this principle, structures can be created which utilize material efficiently; in other words, they are lightweight and strong. Together with the conservation of forces this principle is the basis for all structural design.
The simplest example of leverage is perhaps the use of a crowbar, in which a long bar provides for increased force at a shorter curved end, and is typically used for prying things apart. By understanding such a simple example it becomes easy to see that one important factor in designing efficient structures is to minimize weak points caused by leverage within the structure.