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INSTRUCTORS:
Andrew Kimmle PE, SE
Matthias Peltz, PE
William Goulet, PE, SE
Amro Ramadan, PE
Course Length: 1 hour
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at Structures Congress 2026.
Synthesis of Cable Supported Bridge Geometry Using Topology Optimization (12 minutes)
This presentation investigates the use of topology optimization techniques to determine optimal cable-supported bridge geometries. The research focuses on cable-stayed bridge form-finding and explores how variables such as tower height, deck stiffness, cable spacing, and span ratios influence cable arrangements. Using the GRAND topology optimization method, the study evaluates various cable configurations ranging from fan to harp systems and examines their structural efficiency. The research demonstrates how optimization can reveal load paths and identify geometries that minimize material usage while maintaining structural performance. Case studies and comparisons with existing bridges help validate the methodology and provide insight into practical design applications. The presentation also discusses future extensions involving staged construction, three-dimensional analysis, wind effects, and network arch bridge applications.
16 Tech Bridge - A New Perspective on Suspension Bridges (14 minutes)
This presentation highlights the design and construction of the 16 Tech Bridge in Indianapolis, an innovative pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicular bridge that reinterprets traditional suspension bridge principles. Developed through a design competition, the bridge serves as a landmark connection between the 16 Tech Innovation District and a neighboring medical campus. The design uses fan-shaped steel columns and wave-like steel plates that mimic suspension cables while simplifying fabrication and construction. Engineers optimized the bridge geometry to create an efficient funicular structural system with minimal bending forces. The bridge also incorporates multimodal transportation features, public gathering spaces, and sustainability considerations. The presentation demonstrates how architectural expression, structural efficiency, and environmental responsibility can be successfully combined in a signature bridge project.
Belden Bly Bascule Bridge Design (11 minutes)
This presentation describes the design of the new Belden Bly Bascule Bridge, a movable bridge replacing an aging structure over the Saugus River in Massachusetts. The project improves traffic flow, navigation clearance, multimodal accessibility, and long-term reliability. Engineers selected a four-point rolling lift bascule configuration that eliminates the need for a counterweight pit, reducing environmental and construction challenges associated with contaminated soils. The bridge incorporates modern mechanical systems, lightweight deck materials, redundant structural elements, and maintenance-focused design features. Significant coordination between structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines was required due to the bridge's complexity. The presentation offers practical insights into movable bridge design, constructability, operation, and maintenance considerations.
A Machine Learning Toolkit for Preliminary Bridge Design (18 minutes)
This presentation introduces a machine learning-based toolkit developed to support preliminary bridge design and improve efficiency during early project development. The framework uses historical bridge plans and engineering data to predict key design parameters based on a limited set of input variables. The model was trained using hundreds of real bridge designs and implemented through a user-friendly software interface. Engineers can input basic bridge information and quickly generate preliminary girder dimensions, span configurations, and structural recommendations. Validation studies demonstrated that the model can produce results that closely match actual bridge designs. The presentation discusses current capabilities, limitations, and future enhancements including substructure design prediction and integration with CAD workflows.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how topology optimization can be applied to develop efficient cable-supported bridge geometries and evaluate the effects of key design parameters.
- Describe how suspension bridge principles were adapted to create an efficient and architecturally distinctive bridge structure.
- Discuss the structural and operational considerations involved in the design of a modern bascule bridge system.
- Explain how machine learning can support preliminary bridge design by predicting structural parameters from historical bridge data.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Structural Engineers
- Forensic Engineers
- Bridge and Transportation Engineers
- Engineering Managers/Principals
- Building Design and Construction Professionals
- Researchers and Engineering Students
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 365 days of the course purchase.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]