Zwischenstütze

Zwischenstütze is a German term that translates to "intermediate support" or "intermediate prop" in English. It refers to a structural element that provides additional support to a longer member, such as a beam, truss, or shaft, to reduce its span and thus its deflection or bending under load. These supports are placed at intervals along the length of the main member.

The primary purpose of a Zwischenstütze is to increase the load-bearing capacity and stability of a structure. By dividing a long span into shorter segments, the bending moments and stresses in the main member are significantly reduced. This allows for the use of lighter materials or for the structure to support heavier loads than would be possible without the intermediate support.

Zwischenstützen are commonly found in various engineering applications. In building construction, they can be seen in long beams supporting floors or roofs, where intermediate columns or walls act as Zwischenstützen. In bridge construction, piers and abutments can function as intermediate supports for the bridge deck. They are also utilized in mechanical engineering, for example, to support long shafts or axles to prevent excessive sagging. The design and placement of a Zwischenstütze depend on factors such as the material properties, expected loads, and desired deflection limits.