Truss Creator

This program presents an interactive MATLAB Live Script–based Truss Builder to support problem-based learning and formative assessment

https://www.youtube.com/@swilkerson100

Version 3.0.3 (62,2 KB)
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20. Feb 2026

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This program presents an interactive MATLAB Live Script–based Truss Builder developed to support problem-based learning, formative assessment, and conceptual understanding in undergraduate engineering statics courses. The tool enables students and instructors to construct, modify, and analyze planar truss structures through a graphical user interface, allowing joints, members, supports, and loads to be defined interactively and visualized in real time. By coupling immediate graphical feedback with underlying equilibrium-based analysis, the software encourages students to explore “what-if” scenarios and develop intuition about force paths, support reactions, and internal member forces.
The Truss Builder is implemented using a modular and well-documented code structure, enabling straightforward customization by instructors for course-specific needs or extensions. Beyond its role as a visual demonstration aid, the tool functions as an assignment and quiz generator by allowing instructors to rapidly create unique truss configurations, as well as a problem-checking and self-evaluation platform that students can use to verify hand calculations and identify conceptual errors. These features support formative assessment by emphasizing process, exploration, and iterative learning rather than reliance on static, pre-defined textbook problems.
The software is distributed freely through the MATLAB File Exchange, accompanied by instructional video tutorials that demonstrate classroom and independent study use cases. The paper situates the tool within the broader literature on problem-based learning and visual learning aids in engineering education and discusses how interactive, student-constructed problem environments can enhance engagement and conceptual understanding in statics. Example truss problems are presented to illustrate the tool’s analytical accuracy and instructional value. The results suggest that the Truss Builder provides an effective, accessible platform for reinforcing core statics concepts while supporting modern pedagogical approaches in engineering education.

Zitieren als

Stephen Wilkerson (2026). Truss Creator (https://de.mathworks.com/matlabcentral/fileexchange/183033-truss-creator), MATLAB Central File Exchange. Abgerufen .

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