Introduction to Bridge Engineering
- Course Number: S1018
- Credits: 2 hours
- Instructor: Hong Chen
- Price: $20
Course Outline
Bridges are indispensable structures in modern society, playing crucial roles in transportation, supporting commercial activities, and linking diverse geographical areas. This course will provide a comprehensive exploration of topics ranging from basic bridge terminology to the complexities of various bridge types, underscoring their essential contribution to the fabric of our modern infrastructural system. Moreover, this course will delve into the practical aspects of bridge engineering, including design considerations, safety inspections, maintenance planning, load ratings, and aesthetic considerations. Each of these elements is pivotal throughout a bridge's lifecycle, from initial design stages to eventual decommissioning. The goal of this course is to empower engineers with the comprehensive knowledge required to innovate and excel in the dynamic field of bridge engineering.
At the end of this course, there will be a multiple-choice, open-book quiz designed to enhance your understanding of the course material.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Be able to differentiate between various types of bridges;
- Be able to understand fundamental concepts such as loading and forces in bridge design;
- Be able to consider and incorporate crucial design factors, aesthetic considerations, safety inspections, and maintenance planning in bridge engineering projects; and
- Be able to appreciate the societal and economic significance of bridges and their role in modern infrastructure systems.