Lesson 3: Building Tips
Get two C-channel and two U-channel pieces. Assemble this into a rectangular frame.
With a single screw in each corner, the frame is not rigid and will twist out of position.
Challenge:
Task 1:
Rebuild the frame using two screws in each corner.
How does this affect the rigidity of the frame?
Task 2:
Rebuild the frame using a plus gusset in each corner.
How does this affect the rigidity of the frame?
Task 3:
Rebuild the frame using an angle piece at each corner.
How does this affect the rigidity of the frame?
Triangles are some of the strongest shapes there are. They add strength, support, and stiffness to anything you build.
Task 4:
Rebuild the frame using a 4 post hex nut retainer.
How does this affect the rigidity of the frame?
This all leads us to a key building principle: Always use at least two points of support when joining parts.
This can be done with:
- two or more screws
- hex nut retainers with posts
