A2-Almendariz

I am using the same design I came up with WPBD.  After experimenting a lot with the program I learn that using triangles is the best way to create a strong bridge that would hold a big amount of weight.  Triangles do an excellent job with weight distribution.   I decided to mix triangles to create x-shape structures all over the bridge because I think that this way the bridge will be able to be even stronger.  I think that by having triangles overlapping themselves forming exe distributes the weight even better.  To ensure that the middle of the structure is strong I decided to cross chords between the exe from one side to the other.  I think that this will contribute in the strength of the breach making its structure more consolidated.  For both the top and the bottom of the bridge I decided to also use exe kind of structures to strengthen the bridge when weight is applied.  Also it is important to mention that I decided to use shorter chords to be able to bring the costs down.  Also I did the bridge with sloping sides because I think that by making it completely square would not make any difference.  Also this way I am able to bring the costs down of the bridge even more.  From the original design not many changes were made, I simply added the top and bottom exes to strengthen the structure.  The other change made was the angle of the slopes of the sides due to the angle limitation of Knex.  Instead of been a straight slope, the design slope seem more like an arc.  I hope this change doesn’t affect the weight distribution of the bridge.  The main thing that I have learned by designing bridges so far is that triangles are really good to distribute weight if they are use properly.  Also I have learn that the strength of the bridge not only relies its building materials but on its shape and design.