Trent's+page

We had designed our bridge after this one: [|bridge design.] We coated the lower braces in jb weld (glue compound similar to metal) knowing that it would add a large amount of strength. It broke 2 pieces in the middle due to the twisting motion of a drill, as well as the massive amounts of torque they put out. Rather than repairing it like it was, we took a middle piece out of the bridge. This caused us to not have to try to drill another hole in it. It also strengthened it by putting two vertical bars 1/2 inch apart, and two x-patterns 1/2 inch apart. It was still a strong design (maybe stronger), but it was not tested for whatever reason. Therefore, I have no idea what I could do better. I guess I could have bought more jb weld so I didn't run out, that would be better. Even with it already being "broken" (and repaired), it still took a large amount of force to break it (Mark was shaking). I would have not gone through all the troube of making the x-pattern run horizontal becasue all the pressure in the competition was straight down and it didn't have to hold up to any cross-pressure. However, if this bridge was "real", it would have to hold up to crosswinds and the x pattern would hold up to that alot better than straight pieces. Other than that, I would have done everything the same because I have no idea where it would have broken.