What is the steepest the bridge will be?

[EricH]

Originally Posted by ghandler94

We would like to build a "ramp" resembling the bridge at its steepest (i.e. pushed down all the way) to test chassis prototypes?

I would recommend building it like the competition one. A fixed ramp might work if it was like the 2001 bridge, which stayed in whatever position it was left in. This one levels if it gets a chance. You can always put a tote under the "up" end to lock it into a stationary state for chassis testing; testing getting it to where you need it for the chassis to be able to go up it is a bit harder. And when it comes time for driver practice, you really want to be able to experience the dynamics.

[amoose136]

If you do the math the steepest inclination is a approximately 16 degrees relative to the ground.

[Djur]

theta = arcsin(12" / 44") ~= 15.8 degrees