Supported Deck Arch Bridge

This type of bridge comprises an arch which supports a deck by means of a number of
vertical columns.

2.1 Bridge Specifications

Design a Supported Deck Arch Bridge using Popsicle sticks (ice-cream sticks)
satisfying the stated constraints.

2.1.1 Construction Details:

1. Construction of a Supported Deck Arch Bridge involves sequential construction of the three major
components: the arches, the vertical columns and the deck structure.
2. The deck should have a 630 mm span (i.e the end to end pillar distance) + a min. deck clearance of 30 mm
on each side.
3. The width of the transverse span of the bridge should vary from 60-120 mm so that it fits in the grooves of
the platform as shown in figure 1.1
4. A loaded trolley will be moved along the deck of the bridge. The width of deck at any length should be greater
than or equal to 120mm. The width will be measured at any length of the bridge.
5. The arch should be designed such that the ship (of specified dimensions) can pass through the clearance area
beneath the bridge.
6. The ship will pass such that the line passing through centre of ship coincides the centre of bridge.
7. The bridge must have a level, seamlessly constructed roadway. The deck will be subjected to concentrated/
movable loads along the deck of the bridge.
2.1.2 Plot Specifications:
Platform
1. A wooden platform will be provided by the organizers consisting of four grooves.
2. The structure will be mounted on the 4 grooves shown in red. Each groove is 30 mm x 30 mm with a depth of
20 mm. Distance between the centers of the two grooves is 600 mm along the length of the deck & 90 mm in
transverse direction of deck.

Ship
1. The dimensions of the ship are shown in the diagram.
2.1.3 Materials:
1. Glue: Adhesives (Synthetic white adhesive or single component cyano-acrylate adhesive) can only be used
to build the structure. (Adhesives such as M-Seal® are not allowed)
2. Coatings: Structures may not be painted, sprayed or dipped in any coating material. All glue should be
removed from surfaces that are not bonded together.
3. Popsicle Sticks: Popsicle sticks (maximum length 130mm, width 15 mm and thickness 4 mm). The
Popsicle sticks can be cut or trimmed to any shape or size.

View the bridge testing critaria>>