• Cypress@lemmy.zip
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    1 month ago

    The correct answer is “between 114 and 152 millimeters” because both measures are relevant and necessary from an engineering standpoint: For the purposes of sizing something such that it can utilize the branch for support, it must be made clear that the branch is solid and whole up to 114 millimeters from the trunk. For the purpose of accidental collision clearance, it is necessary to know the furthest extent of the branch’s reach no matter how damaged or disrupted it is. Furthermore if the branch may break and fall off, giving it at least 152mm of clearance means that it is unlikely to accidentally catch upon something in its descent even if it “hinges” away from the trunk at the base.

      • Cypress@lemmy.zip
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        1 month ago

        The larger length, even if it’s at a near vertical acute angle, is likely to tumble if it breaks–which means the whole reason we’re interested in its measurement is a situation where the angle is no longer fixed

          • Cypress@lemmy.zip
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            29 days ago

            The radius of a circle is a fixed distance from its origin at every angle.It’s still the same number of milimeters distal of the trunk from the pivot point.

            • SpaceNoodle@lemmy.world
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              29 days ago

              The concern regarding clearance would be horizontal, parallel to the surface of the Earth, roughly perpendicular to the trunk, so perpendicular distance from the trunk would be what matters. If the branch were fifty miles long but only went straight up, there would be zero horizontal clearance.

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                29 days ago

                you will find that if the branch snaps from the trunk, its perpendicular distance will be exactly the same number of milimeters.