Bridge Design

Our group decided to build a tied arch bridge. We thought this bridge type would work well with the materials given, and seemed relatively light in comparison to its loading capacities.  Additionally, the aesthetic qualities of the tied arch bridge were very enticing, both group members really enjoyed the visual look of the bridge. Our design goal was to make an elegant and efficient bridge, using truss systems to make our bridge lighter while still retaining its structural integrity.

Our team was heavily influenced by the Barqueta bridge, designed by engineers Marcos Jesús Pantaleón and Juan José Arenas. We first were introduced to this bridge in class when we were learning about the various bridge types. The moment we saw this bridge we were immediately drawn to it, and is the reason we ultimately went with the tied arch design.

In our bridge, we decided to incorporate 2 arches, with cables running down from each side to connect to supports that ran underneath the bridge deck. These fanned inwards, moreso for aesthetic than structural purposes, nonetheless they will ultimately be responsible for the majority of the loads taken on during testing.