Why Triangles Are Strong

Compare different bridge designs to see how they distribute forces under a heavy load.

Tension & Compression

A stable structure must effectively manage two forces: Tension (stretching) and Compression (squashing). In this lab, beams under tension are colored blue, and beams under compression are colored red. The brighter the color, the higher the stress.

How to Experiment

Select a bridge design to analyze.
Use the slider to set the weight of the test load.
Click Apply Load to watch the simulation run. Note the **Vertical Deflection**.
Click Reset to try a new design or load. Which design has the least deflection?

Controls

1. Select Bridge Type:

2. Set Load Mass: 10000 kg

Analysis

Select a bridge and apply a load to begin the analysis.

Bridge Status

Vertical Deflection: 0.00 cm

READY