Questions & Answers
Q: Clarification is needed for the loading location. In 2.a.2 it states that there are two locations of the loading plate but in all other places it states that the bridge will be loaded in the center of the 300mm.
A: The only loading location will be at the center of the 300mm span. (The rules have recently been updated to eliminate this discrepancy.)
Q: Is there a limit to how high above the support surfaces the loading plane may be? In other words, in the specification drawing, what is the maximum value of "P"?
A: The loading plane may be anywhere vertically within the envelope defined by "H". The maximum value of "P" is "H" (200 mm).
Q: Please clarify the minimum width of the loading plane discussed in section 2.b.4. of the contest rules.
A: There must be some element of the bridge extending out at least 15 mm from the longitudinal centerline of the bridge, resulting in a total width of 30 mm. This condition shall occur at the loading point, which is at midspan of the bridge. There are more than one acceptable configuration of the loading plane. For example, the entire bridge may be at least 30 mm wide, or the bridge may be narrow with a square or rectangular loading plane at least 50 mm long and 30 mm wide centered at the loading point. A bare minimum interpretation of this rule, which will be acceptable, would be a narrow bridge with a single "outrigger", or cantilever, providing the 30 mm width, located at midspan.
Q: i had an idea on how i could build my bridge but i am not sure if it will qualify, i was wondering if using hot glue sticks in the center of my bridge is allowed, it is considered glue and since you can only make it out of glue and bolso wood.
A: Hot glue sticks are acceptable for construction of the bridge. Any type of glue is acceptable. The wood must be 3/32-inch square cross-section basswood, as listed on the bridge building website.
Q: Would you please interpret the "rule specification 2.b.2" for us? We interpret that there is to be a opening for the loading rod at the center line of the bridge. What is the diameter of this rod?
A: The loading rod is approximately 1/2" in diameter. Keep in mind that the rod extends UP from the loading plate. It does not need to pass down through the bottom of the bridge.
 |
Professional Engineers of Colorado
3030 W 81st Avenue
Westminster, CO 80031
Phone: 303-480-1160
Fax: 303-458-0002