Architectural Design II Form & Function Expression of Truth/Beauty
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Project Statement “Form follows function” is the phrase that justifies architect Mies van der Rohe’s work. Many times, an architectural form is created and then a function is later added. When the function is added, the original form may need to be altered to support its new feature. A common type of structure that changes when a function is added is a bridge. Bridges come in many shapes, sizes, and types; but when one needs to move or open, the shape might change to compensate for its function.
Research First, bridge spans (forms) were studied and a few were selected and sketched.
http://www.ljhammond.com/phlit/2012-06c.htm		http://www.roadtraffic-technology.com/projects/incheon-bridge/incheon-bridge2.html		http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lacon_Bridge-1.JPG
Arch		Cable-Stayed		Truss
Then, types of movements (functions) were gathered and sketched.
Slider		Spring		Hinge
Concepts Each span type was compared with each motion in a table to determine the pros, cons, and level of difficulty of every form-function combination. Then, a combination was chosen to be further developed.
Preliminary Designs The original bridge span transformed as the movable function was added. Originally, the cables were equal on each side of the span. When the 30’ x 40’ portion of the bridge was removed, the bridge’s shape changed. One side became a cantilever condition where the cables had to support more weight. The other side of the bridge needed to support the movable part of the bridge and all its mechanics, so it also changed drastically.
Final Design
Plan
Front Elevation
Rear Elevation
	Right Elevation		Left Elevation
Animations