Mr. Andrews

Introduction

Bridges are structures built to allow people and vehicles to pass over something else. People have been building bridges since prehistoric times. When we think of bridges, we most often think of those built over water. However, bridges may also extend over valleys, highways, or railroad tracks. The type of construction used in building a bridge depends mainly on its size. The most common types of bridge designs are the suspension, arch and beam.  Bridges are designed by civil Engineers.  Engineers use mathematical and Scientific principles to help design efficient structures. 

Most bridges are designed with geometric shapes. These shapes are used to create the structure so it will support a certain amount of weight. The shapes are made up of three main parts. The parts consist of the beam, member, and joint. . These parts working together provide the strength and stability to support weight. What kind of geometric shapes make up the essential part of the suspension bridge?

The Task :

Investigate the following types of bridges.

Suspension Bridge:  This bridge is designed to span a long distance. CLICK the picture to learn more about Suspension bridge.

Arch Bridges:
 

The arch bridge has many variations, i.e., simple spans, multiple spans, with open or earth filled spandrels. The photo illustrates one type of an arch bridge. CLICK the picture to learn more about Arch bridges.

Beam Bridges: The beam bridge is the type that usually directs a highway over top[ another road. CLICK the picture to learn about Beam design structures.

Read the Following Articles on Bridge Design: These articles will help you understand the many different parts of a bridge.

 
Bear Mountain Bridge History

Bridge Building - Art and Science

National Masters Encyclopedia Suspensions Bridges

Super Bridges Building A Bridge

How Bridges Work

Suspension Bridges Technical Data

After you have researched the various types of bridges you are going to use a Formula to determine if each of the sample bridges are stable. You will need to know two parts of the bridge; one is the member, this is the part of the bridge that supports the weight and it also transfers weight to different areas of the structure. The second key part of the structure is the joint, this holds the members together and allows movement when force is applied.

The Process

Task One:

In this task Figures 1 through 4 you will look at four bridge designs. Each design is a different style bridge and consists of JOINTS and MEMBERS. Count the number of Joints and Members and record the amount on the first page. To accomplish this task you will need to CLICK here Sample Bridge Design Page One and print the copy. Two pages will be printed for Figures 1 through 4, which includes the Stability Formula sheet. Remember to fill in the result for each Figure, use the Key for Stability Fromula Results

Task Two:

TASK TWO is more challenging than Task One. In this task Figures 5 through 8 are more complicated bridge designs. Each design is a different style bridge you are to count the number of JOINTS and MEMBERS. Count the number of Joints and Members and record the amount on the first page. To complete this task you will need to CLICK here Sample Bridge Design page two and print the copy. this will provide you with Figures 5 through 8. Remember to fill in the result for each Figure, use the Key for Stability Fromula Results.

 

After you have submitted your two assignments your evaluation will be based on the following:

	Beginning 1	Developing 2	Accomplished 3	Exemplary 4	Score
Accuracy of Information 100%	Much of the task is not complete. Many inaccuracies.	Completes some but not all parts of tasks. Some informationmay be inaccurate.	Presents accurate information and accomplishes tasks.	Demonstrates excellent ability to follow instruction and use of Math formulas.

With the research and completion of this activity you should have developed a good understanding and knowledge about Bridge Designs. The use of the Stability Formula has demonstrated the reason why Math is important to help develop a design in order for it to be successful.

http://www.brantacan.co.uk/bridgedefs.htm

http://www.nycroads.com/crossings/bear-mountain

TechDirection.com

Eandrews@Lakelandschools.org

Lakeland Central Schools District