
1 minute read
0 Conclusions ..........................................................................................................................36
1.2 Constraints
The following are constraints defined in the project outline that impact the design of the bridge.
Advertisement
• The bridge must use a funicular arch and/or cable system • It must have a 2.2m wide flat pedestrian walkway • No individual structural member may exceed 15m in length • It must support a load of 10.2kPa • It must employ horizontal beam members to support the floor deck surface • All structural steel, cable, and concrete members are to follow given specifications
1.3 Motivation
The proposed shape is one that is inspired by the natural landscape and blends in with the rest of the park. The curved deck and arch reflect the flow of a stream, reminiscent of the water below. Similarly, the tall, straight cables resemble the trees that grow on the islands. The choice of a funicular arch for the shape of the bridge also allows for minimal impact on the ground below, while the 3 repeating units help satisfy the constraint of a maximum of 15 metre length for each bridge member. A rectangular cross-sectional shape was chosen for the smaller beams directly supporting the deck to facilitate assembly, while a circular cross-section was chosen for the larger beams that run parallel to the deck, as they match the shape of the arch and curve of the deck.
1.4 Assumptions
The following are general assumptions made to simplify the calculations of this report. The first two are unrealistic assumptions in engineering practice, but they allow for an easier approach to focus on the relevant engineering concepts.
• Assume negligible self-weight for all bridge members • Assume the safety factor is included in the given 10.2 kPa load, which supports human and snow loads
• Assume pin supports at ends