Bridge Building:

A Problem-Based Introduction to Engineering

OBJECTIVE

Students will:

- Build, and test model bridges designed to carry a fixed load,

- Use an authentic engineering design process to develop their designs,

- Apply math, science, and computer technology as problem-solving tools,

- Learn how real bridges are designed and built.

PROJECT

The project is divided into four sections as follows:

PART I. BRIDGE BACKGROUND INFORMATION

RESOURCES:

- PhysicsQuest: Bridges

Online research activity to investigate bridge types, bridge terminology and bridge construction factors

- Educational Video: 'Building Big: Bridges' produced by PBS

Video questions worksheet (pdf file):

PART II. PHYSICS PRINCIPLES

OBJECTIVES:

- Describe an object in equilibrium.

- State the conditions for translational equilibrium.

- Calculate the various forces acting on a bridge: tensions and compressions

- Analyze and evaluate a truss

- Define and calculate the factor of safety for a bridge

PART III. BRIDGE BUILDING

OBJECTIVE:

- To build a manila file-folder bridge designed to carry a fixed load of 49 N.

PART IV. BRIDGE DESIGN

OBJECTIVES:

- Understand the engineering design process.

- Design a model bridge  to carry a fixed load safely and at minimum cost using

  the software West Point Bridge Designer.

Building Big: Bridges