Development and Features of Ancient and Modern Bridges in China

Abstract

China has a long history and rich culture, and built and developed bridges very early compared with other countries in the world. With the rise and fall of China, Chinese bridges have also shown a certain rise and fall. By analyzing and studying the technology and development of Chinese bridges from ancient times to the present, and with the comparative analysis of some world bridges, this paper obtains some brilliant design concepts and valuable technologies to find out the future development path of Chinese bridge engineers. Most ancient bridges in China are divided into wooden and stone bridges according to materials, with various structures. Many designs and skills, such as the design and selection of arches through catenary, can still be used today. Modern bridges are divided into the beam, arch, suspension, and cable-stayed, according to mechanical and structural characteristics. Beam and arch bridges are suitable for small and medium-sized bridges, cable-stayed bridges for medium-sized bridges, and suspension bridges for large ones.