Choosing the right support type is crucial for your structural design. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the difference between pinned and fixed supports:
Pinned Support: Allows rotation but prevents translation. This means it can spin around but cannot move side to side or up and down. Think of it like a door hinge. 
Examples:
- Swing Set: The joints where the swing hangs from the frame are pinned supports, allowing it to swing back and forth while preventing it from falling off.
- Bicycle Wheel Axle: The connection points where the wheel attaches to the bike frame allow the wheel to rotate but keep it fixed in place, preventing side-to-side movement.
Fixed Support: Prevents both rotation and translation, making the part completely rigid, much like a fence post set into concrete. 
Examples:
- Bookshelf Brackets: These brackets fix a shelf to the wall, stopping it from tipping, rotating, or sliding.
- Street Light Pole: The base of the pole is fixed to the ground to keep it upright and steady, preventing any sway or rotation.
Keep in mind that while these explanations are helpful, they should not be considered engineering advice. Always refer to the relevant codes and standards for your designs. If you have more questions or need further clarification, just let us know! 
