Chapter 4: Bridge types

The architectural and structural solution for a bridge should emerge from and is dictated by the basic function that the bridge is to perform. The function of a bridge is to bridge over some particular space in order that some load or traffic may be conveyed over a natural obstacle or another man-made thoroughfare, and the form of the bridge must express this basic function. The best structural solution should be in some way inherent in the site and is the solution that best fulfils the function of bridging the site. The task of the structural designer is to discover a form that can be realised in a way that is both economical and efficient (Leonhardt, 1984; Menn, 1990; Troyano, 2003).