CS382:Structural-outline
Background reading
Note: Provide pointer to reading and some notes about it.
http://pghbridges.com/basics.htm - This is a page containing a number of basic types of bridges, and some information about their origin, and/or how they function.
http://www.in.gov/indot/files/bridge_chapter_01.pdf
Lecture notes
Note: Write in Outline Form
Note: The idea behind this unit is a 1-week unit exploring how it is possible to model structures such as bridges using 3D Modeling tools. Because our current software is biased towards the modeling and simulation of Bridges, this is what the unit will be based on modeling.
Classroom response questions
Note: Include at least 3
Lab activity
Note: Include Process, Software, and Materials.
1. Bridge Builder
Simple, effective, fun bridge building/simulation game. Illustrates structural stress with colors. Might be too simplistic, because it only simulates in 2 Dimensions. Additionally, the software appears to be non-free, and although there is a free 'demo' download for mac/windows. The demo appears fully functional, however the Bridge Builder website advertises a 3-D version with a paid licence.
2. Bridge Construction Set http://downloads.phpnuke.org/en/download-item-view-g-v-l-y-b/BRIDGE%2BCONSTRUCTION%2BSET.htm - Potential Software
An open source physics engine used in many applications. This came from a search on physics engines, which seem to be heavily related to modeling bridges and other structures. There might be some pedagogically useful aspects of this software, however delving to deep into the intracacies of linear algebra and vector multiplication might seriously confuse and frustrate many of the non-math people.
