In the scaffolding system shown in Fig. 3.17, loads x1 and x2 are applied on beams 2 and 3, respectively. Ropes A and B can carry a load of W1= 300 lb each; the middle ropes. C and D can withstand a load of W2 = 200 lb each, and ropes E and F are capable of supporting a load W3= 100 lb each. Formulate the problem of finding the loads of x1 and x2 and their location parameters x3 and x4 to maximize the total load carried by the system x1+x2, by assuming that the beams and ropes are weightless.

12 ft Beam 1 D 2 ft 10- x4 4 Beam 2 2 2 ft 8-x3 x3 Beam 3 Figure 3.17 Scaffolding system with three beams.