Loaded beams, double scaffolds, and the strength of angles
Weights suspended from beams, a double scaffold, and a plank struck across two pails.
The sheet gathers many small studies of beams and framed structures under load. In the right column weights of 8 and 4 hang from horizontal and oblique beams, and Leonardo notes that a weight borne at the junction of two beams is more resistant the more acute the angle and weaker the more obtuse. The left column shows scaffolds and framing, including one labelled a double floor carrying 100 pounds and another carrying three 100-lb loads. At the foot, two figures show a plank laid across two pails and struck until it snaps, with the note that the stick breaks while the pails are not upset.
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The more acute the angle, the greater its resistance
A weight hung where two beams meet is studied: that angle is of more resistance the more acute it is, and the more obtuse it is the weaker it becomes.
A double scaffold bearing 100 pounds
A braced timber framework labelled a double floor is drawn carrying a load of 100, with a further framing beside it carrying three 100-lb loads.
A plank struck across two pails
Two figures show a plank laid across two pails and beaten until it fails. Leonardo remarks: here the stick breaks and the pails are not spilled.