Learning from the Model: From the Historical Bridge Model to the Digital Twin
Until the 1970s, measurement models were used to experimentally investigate static and dynamic behaviours of complex load-bearing structures like cable bridges, dams, and shell structures. With the introduction of powerful computers, however, model statistics became less relevant. Today, there are only a few measurement models preserved in museums or archives; among them is a replica of the New Little Belt Bridge in Denmark. The historical object is housed in the Professorship of Modelling and Simulation of Structures’ Wind Lab at the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar.
The measurement model is still used regularly in Weimar to, for example, demonstrate the vibration behaviour of bridges to school groups: »Historic models of bridges and other structures are much easier to understand than blueprints, especially for non-experts. Measurement models can also be used to demonstrate static and dynamic load-bearing behaviour. The few surviving objects are particularly interesting for architecture and technology museums and academic collections«, explains Prof. Guido Morgenthal from the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar. Together with the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar’s International Heritage Centre (IHZ), he has organised the »Messmodelle« Symposium. Further information on the programme and registration can be found at: https://www.uni-weimar.de/de/universitaet/struktur/wissenschaftliche-einrichtungen/ihz/workshopmessmodelle
»Messmodelle« Symposium
28 April, 2 – 5 pm / 29 April 2025, 9 am – 12 pm
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Marienstr. 7
Keynote Speech »Frei Otto und die Modellstatik«
Speaker: Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Christiane Weber (University of Stuttgart)
28 April 2025, 5 pm, Lecture Hall D, Marienstraße 13
The workshop is for experts and studetns, as well as interested members of the public. The keynote speech marks the 100th anniversary since the death of German architect Frei Otto and can be attended independently of the workshop. Participation is free of charge. Those wishing to attend can register by e-mailingheritage[at]uni-weimar.de.