Bridge Designer
 

So I was bumbling arund the webn and I ran across this site which features a program which is just plain awesome. The website does a good job of explaining everything. But basically, it's a competion that coincideds exactly within robotics season (sorry folks) where contestants compete to design the most cost effective bridge design using the software. Prizes are very nice, and you can submit as many designs as you want and get instant feedback about how you rank in your area.

In designing the bridge you have to consider lots of factors, waay too many to list here, and it's a lot harder than you'd think, but it's very satifying to finally get a design that works and you are treated to a cool animation of traffic across your bridge. Likeways if your bridge collapses, your treated to some fun animations as well.

Just thought you guys would like to know about stuff like this. Enjoy!


-Chris

http://bridgecontest.usma.edu/

Re: Bridge Designer
 

We used that exact software in POE (Principles of Engineering, a Project Lead the Way class) We had to design a balsa wood bridge and a concrete bridge, using this program and MD solids, along with drawing inventor sketches. It really helped us out with that project.

Re: Bridge Designer
 

Good one Chris.

This thread discusses a lot about bridges where you can gain a lot of knowledge. The competition is pointed out here too in the thread. :)

Re: Bridge Designer
 

We used the same program in 6th grade to design and test a balsa wood bridge. It was great fun.

Re: Bridge Designer
 

The West Point Bridge Designer is really nice software, but isn't the only one. Another bridge game that I like, (with way better graphics) is called Pontifex (I and II), and is available for free demo on http://www.chroniclogic.com.

EDIT: I almost forgot that in Pontifex you can "ride" through the bridge on the train that passes over it, which is also pretty cool. :]