Getting Down to it.

Last Saturday, or Causeway Saturday, we took a closer look at some of the trusses we've been analyzing. The Monster looked better with slightly modified flanges on the deck, it came out lighter and stiffer, so kudos there. The others were about the same, a little lighter, but not much else.

We also tried analyzing a multiple beam set, which didn't do so well, but if it's stiff enough, it might make it worthwhile. Matt's going to buy the beams for a field test as soon as he can (maybe...$$$ concern).

This Tuesday we had a Construction Rules Quiz, and it is evident that new Team members need to read the Rules more often and become more and more familiar with them as the season progresses. We also need to learn how to speak up! It's okay to talk and be vocal, if you aren't sure ask. Time to break out of the mental shell and be a real engineer. Talk, and with volume! ;-)
After the Construction Quiz we discussed some of the best bridges. New bridge ideas are dwindling, so we'll have to decide what it is we want to do with the ones we have. We have to think about, and possibly tinker with the assembly design, all of the following:

Constructability - # members, # bolts, reachability of certain nodes, risk potential, assembly location, connection type.

Lightness - weight of connections, weld weight, what needs more wall thickness, what can do with ultra-thin wall (i.e. web, wide OT)

Stiffness - Depth vs. beam-like truss vs. how stiff can we get a beam.

Lots of discussion coming up before we decide, be prepared to listen and state your beliefs.