Build a Bridge

Websites American Society of Civil Engineers A site for engineering professionals with information on publications, job openings, educational programs, conferences, and other industry resources. Association for Bridge Construction and Design Learn about the activities of this organization devoted to improving the science of bridge design, construction, and maintenance. Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute This organization is dedicated to fostering greater understanding and use of precast/prestressed concrete. The Clark Bridge, Alton Illinois A photo history of the bridge featured in the NOVA program Super Bridge. Figg Engineering Group, Hanson Professional Services These two companies are the engineers of record for the Clark Bridge. Golden Gate Bridge Read about the history of the Golden Gate Bridge and take a virtual stroll from the Marin side of the bridge across to San Francisco. Books Billington, David P. 1985. Leonhardt, Fritz. 1990.

BUILDING BIG: Home Page Explore large structures and what it takes to build them with BUILDING BIG™, a five-part PBS television series and Web site from WGBH Boston. Here are the main features of the site: Bridges, Domes, Skyscrapers, Dams, and Tunnels. The Labs Try your hand at our interactive engineering labs. The Challenges Take on the challenges of building big. Wonders of the World Databank Explore our databank of big structures. Local Wonders Investigate big structures near you. Who Builds Big? About the Series Learn more about the shows, and see a chat with David Macaulay. Educators' Guide How to use the Web site, with hands-on activities. Shop Building Big DVDs and books from David Macaulay available at ShopPBS.org. Site Tour Learn more about the features in this site. Site Map The whole site at a glance. Web Credits Feedback Help

BUILDING BIG: Bridge Basics There are more than half a million bridges in the United States, and you rely on them every day to cross obstacles like streams, valleys, and railroad tracks. But do you know how they work? Or why some bridges are curved while others are straight? Engineers must consider many things -- like the distance to be spanned and the types of materials available -- before determining the size, shape, and overall look of a bridge. Since ancient times, engineers have designed three major types of bridges to withstand all forces of nature. The truss bridge... consists of an assembly of triangles. Check out the forces that act on truss bridges! Now that you've mastered the bridge basics, test your bridge-building skills in the Bridge Challenge!