Bridges touch all our lives - every day we are likely to cross a bridge; or go under one. How many of us stop to consider how the bridge stands up and what sort of people designed and built something so strong?Bridge building is a magnificent example of the practical and every day use of science. However; the story of bridges goes beyond science and technology; and involves issues relating to artistic and cultural development. After all; bridges are built by people; for people. Bridges can be icons for whole cities; just consider New Yorks Brooklyn Bridge; Londons Tower Bridge; and Sydneys Harbour Bridge. Such bridges can be considered functional public art; as they have the power to delight or bean eyesore.David Blockley explains how to read a bridge; in all its different forms; design; and construction; and the way the forces flow through arches and beams. He combines the engineering of how bridges stand up with the cultural; aesthetic; and historical importance they hold. Drawing on examples of particular bridges from around the world; he also looks in detail at the risk engineers take when building bridges; and examines why things sometimes go wrong.
#2486320 in eBooks 2013-06-17 2013-06-17File Name: B007ZZ8Y2E
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