The figure shows a rigid bar A B C D pinned at A and supported at B and C by vertical rods labeled 1 and 2 respectively. The separation between A and B is 380 millimeters. The separation between B and C is 380 millimeters and the separation between C and D is 760 millimeters. The load at D is P which equals 36 kilo newtons directed vertically downwards and this load inclines the bar downwards at D.

Bar AD is assumed to be rigid, meaning that it does not bend when load P is applied. Since it is pinned, bar AD cannot translate at A when load P is applied. However, bar AD rotates about A, and as it rotates, the connections at B and C move downward. This movement causes elongation in aluminum bar (1) and brass bar (2). Bars (1) and (2) resist this deformation, developing internal forces and internal normal stresses.