A tool designed to determine the appropriate distances between structural supports, such as those found in decks, wharves, or bridges, helps ensure load-bearing capacity and stability. For instance, it can help determine the correct intervals for pilings supporting a boardwalk. This process considers factors like the span’s length, the expected load (live and dead), the material properties of the supports and the spanning members, and local building codes.
Correctly calculated support intervals are fundamental to a structure’s safety and longevity. Proper spacing prevents excessive stress on individual components, minimizing the risk of failure and extending the structure’s lifespan. Historically, determining these intervals relied heavily on experience and simplified calculations. Modern tools often incorporate more sophisticated analysis, accounting for a wider range of factors and contributing to more robust designs.