Improving the Mathematical Model of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge

Authors

Brian Fillenwarth, University of EvansvilleFollow

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the mathematical model for the torsional rotation of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge derived by P.J. McKenna. Through modifying this model and programming various cases of these modifications using Matlab, we explore how the Tacoma Narrows Bridge would respond to different loading conditions that may have occurred the day the bridge collapsed. From this we are able to gain a better understanding of how the bridge actually behaved prior to its collapse, and can see possible reasons for the ultimate collapse

Author Bio

Brian Fillenwarth is currently an undergraduate at the University of Evansville. He is expected to graduate in May 2008 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering as well as Mathematics and Business Administrations minors. After graduating, he intends to pursue a master㤼㸲s degree in Structural Engineering. He completed this work as an independent study exploring the mathematical model of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge created by P.J. McKenna.

Faculty Sponsor

Talitha M. Washington

Recommended Citation

Fillenwarth, Brian (2007) "Improving the Mathematical Model of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge," Rose-Hulman Undergraduate Mathematics Journal: Vol. 8: Iss. 2, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholar.rose-hulman.edu/rhumj/vol8/iss2/7