This past week in lab, my group mates and I reflected upon last week’s assignment on teamwork, recognizing and resolving our individual issues. We then segued into the main topic of the course, while turning our attention to that lab’s powerpoint. Our professor emphasized the idea of a system and how it requires a particular balance of identified components in order to properly function. However, what if there is an imbalance of materials? We were shown the consequences of this through videos of famous bridge collapses. The videos were very validating for me as an engineer, and how absolutely crucial it is to test for all purposes from the debasement of weather and/or fatigue. This is true to any structure, however, bridges in particular are built to create a physical connection between two points that would otherwise be forgotten due to the sheer magnitude of the obstacle against our size. Bridges are truly a great feat to humanity and it is no wonder that great masses of people use them everyday. Consequently, this means that there is a fair amount of risk in terms of construction, which exemplifies the professor’s previous point on the importance of a system. Immediately following the powerpoint, our group returned to our work station to get started on the actual project. Kelsey and I experimented with West Point Bridge Designer and the different styles of trusses. Melissa focused on the blog, giving it an aesthetic appeal while maintaining professionalism. So far, I’m very happy with our group effort.
In this upcoming week’s lab, we will have a guest speaker to discuss library resources and how to use them to our pivotal advantage. Mr. Jay Bhatt will demonstrate the power of library resources by answering our prepared questions about bridges. My questions include:
- What are the key differences and advantages of Howe and Pratt truss bridge styles?
- Why would an engineer design a truss as opposed to another bridge style?
- What are the weaknesses of a truss bridge design?
Bridge Design: The object of my bridge design was to keep the cost as low as possible while maintaining a sturdy frame. Obviously, my result was disappointing with a final market value of $423,582.56. My design originated from using a Howe Through Truss and a Pratt Deck Truss. I felt by combining these there would be less stress on the joints and therefore an accurate distribution of weight. I used Carbon Steel throughout but experimented with hollow tubes to lower the cost.
Test results: Based off my results, I don't think I obtained a proper balance of compression and tension, however I think I executed my idea as well as I could have. There is much room for improvement.
Chelsea Moss
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