Anticyclical Instrument

Second prize winner for bridge design competition 'karitaat bridge' . The jury stated: ''The anti-cyclical instrument is by its nature a statement for sustainability and awareness of our limited earthly resources. The jury had a very animated discussion about this design, conceptually very strong and ever so original, but also controversial and a bit rebellious through its single issue approach. ''

The ‘Recreatieschap Midden-Delfland’ and the Municipality of Delft intend to build a new bridge for pedestrians and bicycles across the Karitaat Molensloot at the southern border of Delft.

Anticyclical Instrument

What
The bridge is a point of connection: where land meets water, where the world meets Delft, where practicality meets innovation and where esthetics meet sustainability. The bridge will be constructed with re-used wind turbine elements and sustainable materials such as the rotor blades, axis and steel grid. The recognizability of the construction and statement will make this a distinctive and talkative/interactive bridge.

How
The bridge will be carried on three points; two land points and one point on the water. One (or more if needed) of the rotor-blades of the turbine will be the main construction. The touching-point of the bridge with the turbine (on the water) will be on the axis of the turbine.
For the deck a steel grid will be used as a cover. These grids are also often found in the stairs of bigger windturbines. The steel grid will be carried by a series of trusses which are attached to the axis. (See details and calculations).

Why
The bridge is a sustainable landmark. Literally because the bridge is made from re-used elements. Proverbially because it makes a statement about sustainability and scientific progress. The wind turbine was thought to be an effective instrument that reduces reliance on fossil fuels, but is now losing popularity due to its efficiency and empirical experience. The beauty and sincerity of science is one that does not shallowly disregard new ideas; with respect for the past it goes on. In time of economic crisis, this bridge will be part of the anti-cyclical movement, heading forward to a better future.