DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Engineers face the challenge of eliminating the presence of risk in their designs. Although it is ideal to create a design that guarantee success, it is almost impossible to avoid failure. This led engineers to accept the fact that failure is inevitable and address the magnitude of the possible consequences that may arise. They do so by multiplying the vulnerability, rate of occurrence and cost of design and dividing the product by mitigation. This philosophical equation is used to help engineers understand the potential impact that failure could have on a project. Every engineered product or structure is susceptible to failure including some of the most idolized designs in the world.

            One of the most impressive engineered structures is the Golden Gate Bridge. Known for its intricate structure and reputation, it is difficult to believe that it is susceptible to failure. Any structure is vulnerable and faces many risks. The Golden Gate Bridge is no expectation. One major characteristics of the bridge that creates a large risk for the functioning of the structure is the fact that the bridge relies on two supporting cables. Each cable contains 27,572 smaller cables due to the impossibility to create a single cable at the length and thickness needed to support the bridge. With the use of about 80,000 miles of wires, it leaves a lot of room for failure in the construction process. Weather is also an important factor to consider because of San Francisco’s unpredictable winds and earthquakes. Located in-between two tectonic plates, the bridge is bound to encounter natural obstacles.

            The next variable in the equation for consequences of failure is rate of occurrence. Two engineers were assigned to the project and developed an initial design. Before the actual construction of the bridge, it would be logical to receive professional opinions from other professionals. It would also be beneficial to research structures with similar designs. By doing so the architects would be able to recognize the advantages and disadvantages of their design.

            Cost is another variable that is found in the equation that must be considered in any design. The construction of the bridge itself costed nearly $35 million dollars. This price took into account materials, labor, and contractual agreements. Many residents were also concerned with how the structure would alter the natural views and appeal that the San Francisco bay area was known for.

            The last variable in the equation is mitigation. The amount of risk that is recognized in each of the discussed variables was taken into consideration during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge. For example, the use of smaller cables to create a single larger cable was actually the most practical option in construction of the cables. If it was one single cable that supported the whole structure and it was to get damaged, it would be detrimental to the bridge and its durability. By using a large amount of smaller cables, if one is to become damaged there would be others to support the structure. Another precaution taken was the evaluation of the design before construction. Several different engineers that had worked on successful and credible projects that were similar to the Golden Gate Bridge were asked for their professional opinion. Cost was also acknowledged in the process. Although the cost and size of the bridge was not ideal, it created a structure that almost 112,000 vehicle travel on each day.

 

Reflection

By researching the process in which a structure is assembled allowed me to better understand the importance of planning. With a structure as important as the Golden Gate Bridge, it is essential that it is constructed correctly because of the potential catastrophes that can arise as a result of failure. Although a simple business decision may not be held at the same magnitude that a bridge that holds thousands of people a day is, it is still important to consider the risks that a single decision may pose. It’s also important to get a second opinion on any project and consider the effect it may have on others.

 

References

 

GangaRao, H., & Martinez de Lahidalga de Lorenzo, M. (2017, June 4). How Engineers Would Build the Golden Gate Bridge if they Started from Scratch Today. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/how-engineers-would-build-the-golden-gate-bridge-today-2017-6

 

Golden Gate Bridge . (2017). Retrieved from http://goldengatebridge.org/research/construction.php

 

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.