Howetruss

Howetruss is a term that appears in limited sources and is not recognized as a distinct standard truss configuration in mainstream engineering references. In many cases it is presumed to be a misspelling or variant of the Howe truss, a historic design widely used in 19th-century timber bridges.

If Howetruss is used in discussions about truss systems, it is generally treated as part of the broader concept of trusses—assemblies of members arranged to form triangular units that transfer loads through axial forces. No authoritative source consistently defines a specific geometry or set of rules for a Howetruss, which supports the view that it may be an informal or erroneous designation rather than a formal category.

Historically, the most closely related and well-documented term is the Howe truss, named after William Howe. The Howe truss features diagonals that slope toward the center, with vertical members in compression and diagonals in tension, and has been employed in timber and later steel bridges. If Howetruss is encountered in literature, it is often a mistaken reference to this or to another traditional truss type such as Pratt or Warren.

Due to the lack of a clearly defined, widely accepted construct under the name Howetruss, engineers typically rely on established truss classifications and corresponding geometries. When precise information is needed, sources are consulted for standard truss types rather than a term that lacks formal definition.

See also: Howe truss, Pratt truss, Warren truss, truss (engineering).