Building Structures/Bridges

CAD and TinkerCAD

What is Engineering?

Strength

It doesn't always come from material, but from shape.

Why Are Triangles Stronger Than Squares.mp4

Paper Folded Barrel StructureI was reading along in a great book called Why Buildings Stand Up [Salvadori] and I came across a cool folded paper arch. When properly supported laterally by...

Click on the photo above to see a step-by-step tutorial for folding the arch. Or click here for a video.

Strength from Weakness

This is the paper you can use to fold the paper arch.

You can download this as a Word file, or I have copies.

If you can only open it as a Google Doc, the lines won't come out in the proper place, so make sure you open it in Word.

PAPER ARCH.docx

Bridge Types and Forces

Bridging the Gaps - LessonStudents are presented with a brief history of bridges as they learn about the three main bridge types: beam, arch and suspension. They are introduced to two natural forces — tension and compression — common to all bridges and structures. Throughout history, and today, bridges are important for connecting people to resources, places and other people. Students become more aware of the variety and value of bridges around us in our everyday lives.

PAPER TABLES!

Take a look here for some example Paper Tables - CLICK HERE

Look here for some MORE examples of students' structures

Balsa Bridges:

Joints: When you create a balsa bridge, you will have a great deal of individual pieces that will need to be joined together. The type of joint you use when joining two pieces can make or break your bridge. There are a number of different types and they all have their pros and cons. Click the link above to investigate some joint types. When you create your plan for your bridge, you will need to label what type of joints you will be using.