Week 10: Duane

          In the previous week, the groups tested their bridges.  These bridges spanned about three feet.  Originally, the same design from the two foot bridge was used; just lengthened.  However, this did not produce the best results.  It was determined that in order to create a stronger bridge that spans three feet, the height of the bridge needed to be increased.  The bridge was modified completely.  The group tested this bridge on their own and determined that it too did not produce the best results.  It was contorting too much.  Once again, the bridge was taken apart and rebuilt, using part of the design from the very successful two foot bridge.  The bottom of both bridges have the same general design which evenly distributes the weight throughout the bridge.
          Teamwork was such a large part of this course.  Each person had a responsibility.  It was very important that each person had a say.  Each group member had a say in the bridge design and everyone contributed their ideas to make the bridge the strongest it could possibly be.  Documenting was very important.  Taking notes, taking pictures, and recording videos were very helpful when working on the weekly blog post.  Having the notes and pictures allowed for a better description of the progress made and also having pictures makes it easier for the reader to understand exactly what the design looks like.  Computer modeling such as West Point Bridge Designer provided very useful information about the group's design.  It provided forces and costs which allowed the group to modify the design to make it both stronger and more cost efficient.