Make It Bridge! a New Connection

Hi! My name is Zander Edkin and I am a graduating senior (At the start of the project I was still in my senior year, but as of now I just graduated! Never thought it would have taken me this long to get this done)! Earlier this year, while looking for scholarships and grants that adhered to my interests, I stumbled across this design contest. While I do enjoy creating and designing projects to put my 3D printer to the test, it usually takes some time for inspiration to arise. But, when I saw this competition, ideas flooded my brain and I just knew I had to partake. Let's dive into it!

While this project may not have demanded any (or little) physical supplies, it did require a couple of things that could be categorized as supplies. First, a location was needed for the bridge. Second, Autodesk software was needed to bring the bridge to life. For my location, I chose a busy walkway in downtown Iowa City, right next to the University of Iowa. The building that can be seen on the left is the public library, and on the right is an office building connected to the nearest parking ramp (via another sky bridge). For my software, I used Autodesk Inventor Pro.

To start off, inspiration came from the surrounding areas. The public library itself has lots of round features (windows, lights, artwork, etc.), and has mainly an 'aluminum' exterior. The office building on the other side of the bridge has very little organic shape to it, but it still maintains a similar 'aluminum' exterior. Because of this, I tried to design a bridge that I thought could connect the two. Something with flowy edges that still maintained an executive style.

After deciding on the base structure of the bridge, I started to work on other details to make the project more unique. The supports are designed to represent a tree trunk, a nod to the surrounding greenery. Geometric planter boxes are along the sides to strengthen the connection between the tall, foreboding buildings and the relaxing environment. The bottom is colorful and sleek, continuing the theme of the circular pattern.

Not only would a sky bridge provide much-needed shade for the pathway underneath, but it would also provide a safe way to access the library! Parking is hard to come by downtown. Parking ramps are about the only reliable spot to park your vehicle. The nearest parking ramp is on the other side of the office building, already connected by a sky bridge. If another bridge were to be implemented on that same floor, it would come out level with the second floor of the library! This would allow easier access to and from the library. But, as I said earlier, the bridge has a couple of other uses. It would provide some shade for those walking out in the summer heat. It would provide a safe access point to and from the library. And it would also unite the two buildings, creating a new art piece along with its planters.

That's all I got! Thank you for the chance to participate. It was really fun to spend some time on this unique contest!