Ryan, Keith, Calvin, and Steven joined the Model Building Competition 2024, organized by ICE Hong Kong, eager to showcase PolyU’s engineering talent. Competing against elite teams from other universities, they had just three hours and limited materials to build a bridge that could withstand wind tunnel tests.
Their journey began weeks earlier, designing, calculating, and practicing to optimize both structure and teamwork. Challenges arose—balancing material use, time constraints, and unexpected weaknesses in their model. With support from PolyU mentors and access to engineering software, they refined their design and strategy. On competition day, their bridge performed impressively, proving their design and collaboration paid off.
The experience taught them the value of collaboration, adaptability, and practical engineering, proving that determination and teamwork lead to success.
Mr. CHEUNG Chin Ho Keith
Mr. FUNG Tsun Ting Calvin
Mr. WONG Sze Yin Steven
Mr. WU Binyang Ryan
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Faculty of Construction and Environment
Understanding how to design a bridge that balances strength, stability, and material efficiency is fundamental. The team used engineering software to analyze different designs, ensuring the bridge could withstand wind loads while remaining lightweight. This knowledge is essential for predicting how structures will perform under various conditions and for optimizing their design.
Knowledge of material properties—such as the strength and flexibility of wooden strips, glue, and fish silk—was crucial. The team learned to maximize the use of limited materials, strategically reinforcing critical areas like the piers and towers while minimizing unnecessary weight on the deck. This skill is vital for cost-effective and sustainable construction.
Efficient planning and time management were key, as the team had only three hours to assemble the bridge. They practiced beforehand to optimize their workflow, ensuring each step—from assembly to final touches—was completed within the time limit. This mirrors real-world construction projects, where deadlines and sequencing are critical.
The competition emphasized the importance of designing for both static and dynamic loads, especially wind resistance. The team had to calculate and test how their bridge would perform under wind tunnel conditions, learning to add lateral supports and braces where necessary. This knowledge is directly applicable to real bridge and building projects exposed to environmental forces.
The team constantly faced challenges such as limited materials, time constraints, and unexpected weaknesses in their bridge design. They learned to analyze problems, test solutions, and optimize their approach, which are essential skills for adapting to new situations and overcoming obstacles in any field.
Success in the competition depended on effective teamwork. Each member contributed ideas, debated design choices, and worked together to finalize the best solution. This experience reinforced the importance of listening, sharing responsibilities, and leveraging diverse strengths—a vital skill for lifelong learning and professional growth.
The team had to adjust their plans when materials ran short or when their initial designs proved impractical. Being open to change, learning from mistakes, and quickly adapting strategies are crucial lifelong learning skills, especially in dynamic and unpredictable environments.
To improve their bridge design and construction, the team sought knowledge beyond the classroom—using engineering software, consulting mentors, and practicing model assembly. This proactive approach to learning new tools and seeking guidance is key to continuous personal and professional development.
With only three hours to build the bridge, the team had to plan, prioritize, and execute tasks efficiently. Practicing beforehand and optimizing their workflow taught them how to manage time under pressure, a skill that is invaluable for balancing multiple commitments throughout life.
The pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey! To further expand your knowledge and continue your personal and professional growth. Click and explore the following learning resources:
Structural Design and Analysis
Load-Bearing and Wind Resistance
