USC ASCE Steel Bridge 2010

A.K.A THE BEAST

                        

Bridge Design Constraints:
    This year, the design constraints for the structure ensure that all bridges will have no superstructure above the deck of the bridge.  However, the bridge is allowed to have a support structure below the deck of the bridge.  This is a major change from previous years rules and hopefully has leveled the playing field. 

Our Design:
    There were several options on what type of bridge we want to build.  We decided on a arch supported deck bridge.  The past 3-4 weeks, we have been working on a design based upon a built section truss which spans the length of the bridge, with an arch supported mounted to the strong base piers.  Our aim was to create a stiff deck bridge with a built up section truss.  For added rigidity, the arch is used.  The arch, if built perfectly, will be in compression.  This circular tube steel will distribute the load axially, where the strength of the tube steel is maximized. 
    Our bridge’s preliminary design was created and tested in SAP 2009.  The bridge is now in the process of being drawn and detailed in Solid Edge.