Given options show wooden joints, each made of 2 wooden blocks of different colours with a wooden pin at the centre. All joints can be released along the Z axis. Which of the joints can be released along the Y axis?
Show Hint
To determine if a joint can be released along a certain axis, imagine trying to move one piece in that direction. Look for any "undercuts" or interlocking profiles (like dovetails or hooks) that would physically block that movement. If the interface is a straight line or plane parallel to the direction of motion, it can be released.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify which wooden joint can be disassembled by pulling the two pieces apart along the Y-axis (vertical direction). The problem states that all joints can be released along the Z-axis (perpendicular to the page, i.e., by lifting one block off the other). We need to analyze the geometry of the interlocking parts for movement constraints in the Y-direction.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's examine the profile of each joint to see if vertical movement is possible. Releasing along the Y-axis means the two blocks can slide past each other vertically without any part of one block hitting any part of the other.
Joint A: This is a type of dovetail or lapped joint where the interlocking shapes are flared. The wider part of the orange block's tenon is captured by the narrower opening of the light-colored block's mortise. Any attempt to pull the blocks apart vertically (along the Y-axis) would cause the flared sections to collide. Therefore, it cannot be released along the Y-axis.
Joint B: This joint has a hook-like feature. The orange block has a projection that hooks under a corresponding section of the light-colored block. This hook directly prevents separation along the Y-axis.
Joint C: This is a simple half-lap joint. The two pieces meet at a straight, vertical interface. There are no undercuts, hooks, or flared sections that would prevent one piece from sliding vertically relative to the other. Therefore, this joint can be released along the Y-axis.
Joint D: Similar to joint A, this is a dovetail-type joint. The tenon on the orange block is wider at its base than at the opening of the mortise in the light-colored block. This dovetail shape mechanically locks the pieces together and prevents them from being pulled apart along the Y-axis.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Only joint C has a geometry that allows the two wooden blocks to slide apart along the Y-axis without obstruction.
