Project by: Eddie Button, Jeewon Seo, John Kim, Napat Leephanuwong, Terence Ng, and Vivian Silva Freitas
The present project analyzes the 1D Compression – Arch used in the Infinity Bridge, a famous footbridge in the UK. This 273-meter bridge connects a business park to a university campus, allowing people to walk or cycle across the River Tees.
The structural design features an asymmetric double bowstring arch, meticulously shaped through form-finding to ensure that dead loads are resisted primarily through axial compression. This optimization minimizes bending moments, allowing for an exceptionally slender profile. The 120m main span was engineered to provide a clear navigation channel for a 1km rowing course, avoiding a central pier.
Made from 450 tonnes of steel and concrete, the bridge is designed to last 120 years. It is named the “Infinity Bridge” because when the arches reflect in the water, they look like the mathematical symbol for infinity, representing a never-ending connection for the community.
