The Bridge Challenge

The challenge is to build a bridge using only flat wooden toothpicks and white elmer's glue. The winner is based on the efficiency of the bridge (weight supported/weight of the bridge). The dimensions and weight rules are as follows:

• Height must be between 4.75 cm and 6.25 cm.
• Width must be between 4.75 cm and 6.25 cm.
• Length must be able to fit between a 25 cm span.
• Weight must not be over 40 grams.
• Only white Elmer's glue can be used
• Toothpicks can not be soaked in glue
• The top of the bridge must be able to place an 8 x 8 cm block of wood on top for placing weights for the contest.

A great resource for building can be found at http://www.garrettsbridges.com/design/toothpick-bridges

To see what happens when bridge designs goes wrong see the Tacoma, WA Bridge disaster.

Good luck and happy building!