Bridge Types
The Swing Bridge
| A swingbridge is a moving bridge which pivots around a gear mechanism. This type of bridge is used where there is flat ground which will not allow boats to pass underneath. |
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| New Connaught bridge, Docklands | || | Aerial view of the Connaught swing bridge showing the space allowed for the bridge to turn. |
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| Connaught swing bridge | || | Connaught swing bridge pivot |
Some of the Docklands bridges, such as the Connaught bridge by the project site are of this type. The bridge turns around upon a large pivot mechanism to allow large ships to pass through the Connaught Passage from one Dock to another. |
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| Detail of pivot gear on Connaught swing bridge | || | Victorian swing bridge pivot mechanism |
The large gear wheel on the base forms part of the modern pivot mechanism. The gears are powered by electricity. The turning device on the right is one of the original Victorian pivot mechanisms for opening bridges or lock gates. These used water, steam and horse power before electricity was available. |
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