Q1. Which bridge shape shall I choose for the competition?
The strongest structures for a short span of bridge model that won the competition in previous years are rigid frame type of bridge + arch bridge.
Q2. How can I build a model bridge that follow the shape that I want?
The shape follows the drawing. So the best method is to make a full scale drawing of 1 meter span bridge using AutoCad, and start by doing initial glueing on the drawing (on the floor) to form a components/parts. Once the glue set dry, you can start assembling the components/parts by tying using a strong string.
Q3. What materials to be used for bridge model construction? Can I use bamboo?
The lightest non-metal materials is balsa wood. But the balsa plank has to be cut into pieces of 150 mm and in 5 mm thick, then glued together to form a shapes. You may use bamboo, but bamboo stick is heavier than balsa. Since part of the material is sponsored, will you still insist to use bamboo?
Q4. What type of glue can I use to make the model?
Any glue that give strong bonding. Silicon glue, Dunlop glue, UHU glue can be used, but they are too heavy. I would recommend araldite glue, CA glue or Super glue. (Updated!)
Q5. How can I bend the balsa wood?
Balsa wood can be bent easily if it is heated. Try to use hair dryer to heat the balsa wood, bend and pin it using 3-4 pins. Be careful not to over burn your balsa wood. It also can be bent easily by immersed in water, then bend and pin it using 3-4 pins, subsequently let it dry.
Q6. Can I test the model before the competition?
Yes you can. Try 5kg of sand pouch on bridge model deck. You can do pre-testing in our Civil Engineering’s Structure Lab (E4-M09).You may also weight your structures on weighing scale to obtain the best strength over weight. But don't break the models.
Q7. Can I keep the model if I won the competition?
The bridge model from overall winners of the competition will belong to FOEAT, INTI International University. You can keep the photos, moneys and certificates.
Q8. Can I get an advice from anyone for the design and construction of models?
Yes, from anyone, except the judges. You can also seek advice from your senior who had participated in previous National Bridge Model Competition. Call them!!!
Q9. How is if I cheat during the competition by inserting a metal/wires inside the wood?
Your team will be disqualified, our judges has a very sharp eyes in model constructions, particularly Mr. Woon.
Q10. What do you mean by clear span?
Clear span is the free/unobstructed/no-column/no-support span spanning the river, for example. So, instead having model length of 1 meter, you should extend the model to say 1.2 meter, ie. 0.1 meter on the left and right of the model for a support to the testing frame.
Q11. What software shall I use for drawing or to try out the engineering analysis?
For engineering drawing, I recommend you to use AutoCad, either in 2D or 3D. For engineering analysis, you may use Multiframe 4D from formsys, StaadPro or S-Frame. You may download the Multiframe 4D’s demo software at this address.
Q12. How do I make a poster?
You can design your poster using Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop or CorelDraw, and send it to nearest printing shop for printing. If you have an artistic talent, you can hand drawn your poster and colour-it using pastel colour pencil, water colour or oil colour.
Q13. I am a Degree student and my friends are Diploma student, can we form a group?
Yes you can! This competition is open for all FOEAT students, regardless what level and disciplinary you are.
Q14. I built the model with bridge deck using plywood, can I dismantle the deck during the model testing?
Yes you can, but make sure it is detachable, and you must provide some space for us to insert the strings for 5 kg loader.
Q15. Can I paint or varnish my model?
Not encouraged. It is because painting will increase the weight! Let it be looked natural.
Q16. How can I reduce the weight of my model?
You have to select the truss or members of the bridge model carefully and remove any redundant (un-used) members. Or, you may use sand-paper to sand the unnecessary thickness of the model.
Q17. What is equivalent cross section?
Equivalent cross section is size of 5x5, such as: 2.5x7.5; 1x10; 0.5x10mm; 2.5x10; 1x25; 0.5x50; 2x12.5; 3x8.3; 4x6.25 and etc.
Q18. What are the critical successful factors in this competition?
Teamwork, dedication and never give up, man! These are the essential attitude needed whenever you do a thing. Of course, lightness and least deflection of your model also play important role at here.
Q19. What are the best records INTI International University has?
Our best records in previous National Bridge Model Competitions are shown below:
Year 2009
- 1st Prize: 70 gram with 0.40 mm vertical deflection.
- 2nd Prize: 80 gram with 0.34 mm vertical deflection
Year 2007:
- 1st Prize: 89 gram with 0.5 mm vertical deflection.
So, we hope to maintain our best record in next coming National Bridge Model Competition 2011.
Q20. OK, I'm interested on it. Where can I register?
Kindly come to FOEAT office's counter to collect the INTI Bridge Model Competition's Registration Form, fill in all the information and submit back to any officer at there.
