I. Introduction

The ME270 project is intended to demonstrate students’ ability to create mechanical designs using the theories learnt in the class. In this particular project, the students are required to design a steel truss highway bridge using West Point Bridge Designer software (available for free). The challenge is that the students need to design a bridge strong enough to support a truck weighing the 225 kN (two lanes) at the minimum possible cost. The bridge must have the following specs.
• Arch type
• Bridge span (length) is 40 m
• No peers allowed
• No cables allowed
The appropriate design is the one that is able to support the truck weight successfully and be at the minimum possible cost. To accomplish this task, the students have to decide among many alternatives (minimum three designs are required) such as type of material, elements size, type of the abatement, etc.
Once satisfied with the design, the students need to select two of most critical elements and conduct hand calculations using the methods learnt in the class (Section and Joints). These obtained results should be then compared with the software calculations and comments are made for any discrepancies.
Group Size: 2-3 students
II. Learning Outcomes
• ABET ( A-F), refer to the syllabus for the details
• Basic Mechanics I Learning outcomes, refer to the syllabus for the details
Specific Learning Outcomes:
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real work’ project
• Ability to create mathematical models of real life situations and apply reasonable assumptions to come up with an acceptable solution.
• Ability to present findings in clear and concise manner
• Ability to draw meaningful conclusions