 
With Model Smart 3D, students can
interactively design and test bridges
and other structural systems.
This module deals with the problem of building things
so that they will be strong enough to perform their
intended function. The principles that students learn in
this module will apply whether the structure is a bridge,
a tower, a house, a chair, or even a computer case.
Students learn about factors that affect the function of
all structures and how various design principles can be
used in offsetting these factors and forces. Students use
a wide variety of materials and learning skills in this
module. Using 3D simulation software, students can
design and test a variety of structures. The software
analyzes the designs and simulates test results by
showing a deflected shape or collapse. They go
on to design, build, and test model towers using
balsa, glue, and other included materials. Just as
in the real world, the goal is not only to solve the
structural problem but to do so in the most efficient
and cost-effective way. This module also addresses
various types of bridges from past to present, and
introduces students to career options in architecture,
construction, and engineering. This curriculum will
accommodate 7-, 10-, or 15-day class rotations.
Student Objectives
- Build different types of frame structures and describe
how they react to forces
- Show how to measure the relative stability of a structure
- Explain the different states of equilibrium
- Model designs in computer simulation to test
their effectiveness
- Test a structure to determine its maximum load capacity
- Identify design and construction features that
enhance load capacity
- Identify design and construction techniques that
improve the cost-effectiveness of a structure
Interdisciplinary Relationships
- Mathematics
- Measuring
- Physics
- Reading
- History
- Graphic design
- Drafting
- Engineering
- Architecture
Technology Content Standards
This module meets the following ITEEA Standards:
- Characteristics and scope of technology
- Core concepts of technology
- Relationships among technologies and connections
with other fields
- Cultural, social, economic, and political effects of technology
- Effects of technology on the environment
- Role of society in development and use of technology
- Influence of technology on history
- Attributes of design
- Engineering design
- Role of troubleshooting, research and development, invention
and innovation, and experimentation in problem solving
- Apply the design process
- Use and maintain technological products and systems
- Assess the impact of products and systems
- Select and use construction technologies
Activity Listing
Activity 1: Introduction to Structures
Activity 2: Rigidity
Activity 3: Stability
Activity 4: Center of Gravity
Activity 5: Support Structures
Activity 6: Improving the Vertical Support Structure
Activity 7: Final Structure Trial
Activity 8: History of Bridge Building
Activity 9: Computer Simulation of Structure Design
Activity 10: Analysis and Enhancement of
Structure Design
Activity 11: Bending Profiles
Activity 12: Design a Structure
Activity 13: Testing Components
Activity 14: Construction
Activity 15: Testing and Analysis
Structural Design
Module Components
- Model Smart 3D Software
- Bridges CD-ROM
- Fischertechnik focus structures kit
- Tower building kit
- Set of miscellaneous supplies for use with activities
- Teacher’s Resource Manual, including setup
instructions, instructional strategies, management tips,
student competencies, answer keys, and suggestions
for assessment
- 2 Student Workstation Manuals, including background
information, complete step-by-step instructions, highquality,
black-and-white graphics, pre- and post-tests, and
extension exercises
*Extra copies of Workstation Manuals may only be purchased with a Module or Classroom Pack order. They cannot be purchased separately.
Note: 5-Station Classroom Pack includes 5 Workstation Manuals, Model Smart 3D software 5-user lab pack, 5 Bridges CDs, 5 Focus Structures Kits, 5 cutters and cutting mats,
5 calipers, 1 Tower Building Kit, 10 safety goggles, and enough consumable supplies for 10 students (5 student teams of 2). 10-Station Classroom Pack includes 10 Workstation
Manuals, 2 Model Smart 3D software 5-user lab packs, 10 Bridges CDs, 10 Focus Structures Kits, 10 cutters and cutting mats, 10 calipers, 1 Tower Building Kit, 20 safety goggles,
and enough consumable supplies for 20 students (10 student teams of 2). Classroom Packs are designed for use with 1 centralized testing station. For an itemized list of
materials, please contact our customer service department at 800-243-2329.
Minimum System Requirements
Pentium or Celeron compatible processor; Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, XP or Vista; 16-bit color; 32 MB RAM; 5 MB available hard drive space; CD-ROM drive.
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