Journal Entry For
Module 8 - Make Your Pitch
ACC Folder Link
Link to Student
Suspension Bridge Design Optimizer
- Purpose: Assist structural engineers in designing suspension bridges by optimizing the number and placement of suspensions based on various structural inputs.
Inputs:
- Bridge Length: Total length of the bridge from one end to the other.
- Span Length: The distance between the two main towers.
- Load Capacity: Expected maximum load the bridge needs to support at any given time, including vehicular, pedestrian, and environmental loads.
- Environmental Factors: Wind, seismic activity, and other relevant environmental conditions that affect bridge design.
Processing Logic:
- Load Distribution Analysis: Calculate how the load will be distributed across the bridge.
- Suspension Optimization: Using principles of physics and engineering, determine the optimal number of suspensions and their placements to balance the load and minimize material use while ensuring safety and stability.
- Cost Analysis: Provide cost estimations based on the materials and the number of suspensions required.
Outputs:
- Optimal Number of Suspensions: Number of cables and their placement along the bridge.
- Visual Representation: A model showing the proposed layout of the bridge with all suspensions.
- Alternatives: Suggest alternative designs based on different priorities (e.g., minimizing cost vs. maximizing durability).
Additional Features:
- Customization Options: Users can tweak design parameters and immediately see how these changes affect the overall design and safety margins.
- User Collaboration: Enable multiple users to work on a single project simultaneously, which is particularly useful for large engineering teams.