Thames & Kosmos Structural Engineering Bridges & Skyscrapers

Description

With this kit of modular building pieces, students learn the basics of structural engineering by conducting a series of 20 model-building experiments. Each model demonstrates a basic principle of mechanical physics or structural engineering in a hands-on way.  A 36-page, full-color manual guides you through model building with step-by-step illustrated instructions.

Experiments begin  with small models that demonstrate how structural elements can be attached together to maximize the strength of a structure for a fixed amount of material used. Learn about basic structural elements including columns, beams, trusses, plates, arches, shells, and catenary. Explore the forces acting on structural components including tension, compression, shear, and bending. Then, move onto building more complex models of trusses, roofs, and small buildings. Experiment with different types of bridge construction: a truss bridge, arch bridge, cantilever bridge, rope bridge, and suspension bridge. Finally, build models of towering skyscrapers.

Ages: 8+
Experiments: 20
Weight: 1.8 lbs.

Includes
323 pieces
instruction manual