Science Fair Projects On Truss Bridges
- Consider building two different types of truss bridges and observing which bridge can support more weight. Two common designs of truss bridges are the kingpost and the queenpost. These are both vertical posts used in architecture, bridge building and aircraft design. However, the queenpost is designed to span longer openings than a kingpost. Build each of these bridges using wood and wood glue and slowly add weights to them until one of them collapses.
- Truss bridges are supported by a large number of triangular shaped structures. However, we may wonder which kind of triangle offers the best performance. Consider a project whereby you design and build three types of truss bridges out of wood, each using a different kind of triangle. Build one using equilateral triangles, another using right isosceles triangles and another using 30-60-90 triangles. Be sure to make the all the same length. Which can support more weight?
- Consider a science fair project that compares a truss bridge with another type of bridge -- an arch bridge, for example. These could be built out of craft sticks and glue, paper and glue or wood and wood glue. Add weights until one of the bridges collapses. Then repair them and test them several times. Are the results consistent over time?
- Truss bridges are fairly complex structures with lots of components that are able to carry different amounts of weight. Consider a project in which you construct a truss bridge with glue and paper, or glue and craft sticks, and label all the different parts of the bridge. A short list of components includes the portal strut, the vert post, the bottom lateral bracing, the end post, the portal bracing, the panel, the deck, the end floor beam and the hip vertical. For a more advanced project, consider calculating how much force each truss is able to carry.