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/