So, I broke my back today and at the same time trying to fine-tune my design, but as soon as I talked to Vince, I realized my back was the least of my concerns. The good news is that he said my design was better developed then the last time he saw it and the bad news is I have to “keep developing” (story of my life). Damn my back! Anyways, here are my initial sketches. And as T says, Keep Calm and Carry On!

My newest contestant is a “water strider”, also known as the “Jesus-bug”; fitting, since it’s a bug that floats on water. This insect relies on surface tension in order to walk on top of water. The legs on these insects are designed to keep afloat as well as guide themselves across rivers, ponds, and streams, using its middle legs to guide and its forelegs as rudders. Fun fact: Their legs are water resistant.

As for the design I’m still designing a bridge, but now, the bridge will be floating above water, much like the lily pad, but this design will focus mostly on the mechanics of how it will work. As of now, I’m trying to design hinges, that will allow for movement, depending on the water levels, tension from the link between each platform, pontoons to help keep it float above water, but most importantly the hinges (legs), which will be the core of all its mechanics as they will be adjustable and acts as the links.