Systems and methods for spanning structures

A bridge system configured to recycle loads on the bridge deck or superstructure though one or more structural elements, the bridge comprising:

• first and second towers separated by a horizontal distance;
• first and second columns each hinged to the first and second towers, respectively, at first and second fulcrums, respectively;
• a bridge deck extending between the first and second fulcrums and secured thereto, wherein the bridge deck comprises a plurality of deck plates, each plate overlapping an adjacent deck plate along a length of the bridge deck between the first and second fulcrums, wherein a surface is typically overlayed on top of the bridge deck to support traffic;
• a plurality of upper cables each and extending between the towers and the bridge deck;
• one or more lower cables extending between the first and second columns;
• one or more stringer cables extending between the one or more lower cables and the bridge deck and secured thereto;
• and
• one or more vertical cables extending between the first tower and the first column.

A bridge system configured to recycle loads on the bridge deck or superstructure though one or more structural elements, the bridge comprising:

• first and second towers separated by a horizontal distance;
• first and second columns each hinged to the first and second towers, respectively, at first and second fulcrums, respectively;
• a plurality of upper cables each and extending between the towers and the bridge deck;
• a bridge deck extending between the first and second fulcrums and secured thereto;
• and
• one or more vertical cables extending between the first tower and the first column.