Context: Roads and walkways have taken people from one place to another for centuries. Sometimes, they reach a location where they can not go. For example when they reach a river or a gorge. People have always come up with solutions to these problems through innovative thinking.
Design Brief: To design and make a beam/bridge that will span a 36” gap and hold as much weight as possible.
Possible Solutions: Build a bridge, go around, go under, change the route, or don’t go at all.
Design Constraints: The following are some constraints or limitations for this project: - You may work individually.
- The project will be evaluated during another period (i.e., you can do some “fine tuning” at home).
- The structure can not be anchored (i.e., taped) to the piers or supports
- You have 60 minutes to work on the project in class.
Detail Design: The following are the steps to designing and making your paper bridge: - Ensure that the work area is clear of hazardous materials (i.e., oil, gas, rags, wood, plastic, etc.)
- Prepare the paper by using the knowledge you gleaned through the design-and-make tower project.
- Construct your bridge.
- Place the provided weights on the bridge and record the number required to result in failure of the beam section.
- Clean-up your work area and put your tools away.
Materials: sheet of paper, tape, rulers, scissors, and weights.
Commissioning: Were you successful in this project when you tried it out?
Evaluation: Did this project work as you expected it to?
Reflection: Did you enjoy this project? What were you most proud of? What would you do differently next time?
ADDITIONAL RESOURCESHere is a link to the West Point Bridge Designer software that we use at RCI. It is free to download and you can work on your bridge designs at home.
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