Building Bridges

Overview of the Activity

In this learning activity, you will build a virtual bridge using the West Point Bridge Building 2012 software as an individual and as part of a team effort.

When the virtual construction of your bridge is complete, you will be able to test the bridge in terms of its load capacity. As you test your bridge design, you will be able to observe how the structure works—how the various structural members work together to carry the load safely and efficiently. And at the end of the project, you will save the virtual model as evidence of your bridge-building skill.

Again, your objective is to design the most cost-effective truss bridge possible, while still passing the load test with no major failures. Your objective is to build a bridge that passes the load test and comes in at least under $200,000.00.

Please save your work on our T Drive for grading purposes as described below, and so you can access the same as needed.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this learning activity, you will be able to:

Use scientific inquiry methods during field and laboratory investigations.

You are expected to: collect information by observing and measuring; analyze and interpret information to construct reasonableexplanations from direct and indirect evidence; communicate valid conclusions; and construct simple graphs, and charts to organize, evaluate information.

Use critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions.

You are expected to: represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations.

Use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry.

You are expected to: collect and analyze information using tools including calculators, safety goggles, microscopes, cameras, sound recorders, computers, hand lenses, rulers, thermometers, meter sticks, timing devices, balances, and compasses; and demonstrate that repeated investigations may increase the reliability of results.

Use technology terminology appropriate to the task.

You are expect to: use a variety of input devices such as a mouse, keyboard, disk drive, modem, voice/sound recorder, scanner, digital video, CD-ROM, or touch screen; follow acceptable use policies when using computers; use software programs with audio, video, and graphics to enhance learning experiences; use appropriate software to express ideas and solve problems including the use of word processing, graphics, databases, spreadsheets, simulations, and multimedia; and use interactive technology environments such as simulations, electronic science or mathematics laboratories, virtual museum field trips, or online interactive lessons to manipulate information.

Learning Activity Process

First, break up into your respective team and find adjacent computers so that you can sit and work together as you design and test your virtual bridge.

Second, download and as a group review the JED Bridges.pdf below. Once you have previewed the document, discuss the same ensuring that the entire team understands the concepts presented within said document.

Third, as individuals start the West Point Bridge Designer 2012 software for older computers, and learn how to use the software by accessing the HELP tab which has useful information about how to design a bridge and about how to use the software itself.

Fourth, once you have taken the time to learn how to design a bridge using the West Point Bridge Designer 2012, build the most cost-effective bridge you can. Again, the goal is to come in under the $200,000.00 mark. Save your best effort as your first name.last.BB

Fifth, after building your bridge, get together with your team. Using what you have learned, build the best bridge possible as a team. Save the bridge as Team #, substituting # for your team number.

Your team is competing with other teams. Let's see who brings home the trophy.

Remember, you will receive an individual grade as well as a team grade your individual and team efforts!

Good Luck!

After turning in your bridge design, watch the following video, take Cornell notes, and post them within your Engineering Journal on the T-Drive.

• • Milau Sky Bridge Video (YouTube)