Define a Problem
The purpose of this project is to practice using bridge designer 2016 and to visualize how forces act upon members in a bridge. Our constraints include that the bridge may not exceed an elevation of 32.5 meters above the high-water level and cannot consist of more than 50 joints and no more than 120 members. The cost of the bridge cannot cost more than $400,000 and must hold the load of the passing truck. My goals are to create a stable bridge that does not break any constraints, that hold the truck load.
|
Generate Concepts
Develop A Solution
My final design uses arch abutments, supports, to maintain stability. Arch bridges work by transferring the weight of the bridge and its loads partially into a horizontal thrust restrained by the abutments at either side. Therefore, the bridge is functional with only under abutments because the tension is spread out.
Construct and test prototype
Evaluate the Solution
Present the Solution
1. I learned how to use the bridge design software and how to use the shape of triangles to create a bridge that works and is under the cost limit.
2. If the direction of stress is diagonal or under compression, then I would try to use stronger steel and thicker material if possible. You want to use a stiffer material under compression because it is less likely to bend and harder to break. My bridge was weakest on the lower longer diagonal members.
3. The tension and compression forces act against each other to balance out the forces acting on the bridge. If there were no tension and compression forces, the bridge would not hold. When the forces act on each other, they make the members stiffer and therefore make the bridge hold better.
2. If the direction of stress is diagonal or under compression, then I would try to use stronger steel and thicker material if possible. You want to use a stiffer material under compression because it is less likely to bend and harder to break. My bridge was weakest on the lower longer diagonal members.
3. The tension and compression forces act against each other to balance out the forces acting on the bridge. If there were no tension and compression forces, the bridge would not hold. When the forces act on each other, they make the members stiffer and therefore make the bridge hold better.