A unique bridge system

Abstract

This thesis examines several remarkable bridges designed by Santiago Calatrava, a Spanish architect-engineer. In those bridges, Calatrava exploits the phenomenon of torsion of the deck to create a certain longitudinal asymmetry. This asymmetry enables the designer to include original features like a big balcony one side of the bridge, "to emphasize the position of the bridge in relationship to the city around it, or the direction of the water, or even the position of the sun. It permits to sensitize the bridge itself, as a phenomenon set into the surrounding landscape" (Conversation with Students, Calatrava). Actually an inclined arch stabilized by steel arms or hangers generates the sufficient torsion defying equilibrium rules. But those structures cannot be considered as classical arch structures. They cannot be classified as usual bridges: they are unique. This complex design is described through four relevant examples of bridges in which Calatrava gradually improved his technical design: the Lusitania Bridge, the La Devesa Footbridge, the Puerto Bridge and the Alameda Bridge. Lastly his most recent design, even more technically advanced than the previous ones, is analyzed with respect to its structural concept, its conceptual design and its exclusive construction process.