Northern Arizona University Steel Bridge

Design Alternatives

The image above shows the trusses that were considered for the bridge's design.

Decision Matrix

The decision matrix was used to determine the best option for a bridge truss. The trusses were judged on strength, lightness, aesthetics, constructability, and fabrication. Each design alternatived was scored on a scale from 1-5, with 5 being the best. Strength was scored as 5 for all options because any bridge would be able to hold the necessary weight with proper design. From the decision matrix the Warren truss was determined to be the best option, so that is the truss that was used.