Introduction to Bridge Design and Truss Analysis

[technoweasel]

Does anyone happen to know where I could find some introductory material on the physics of bridges and trusses in general? I have been having problems finding information that is simple enough for me (high school) but that isn't too simple. Although I am not afraid of math, I have only begun to study calculus. Is there anything for people who graduated elementary school but aren't in engineering grad school?

I also see plenty of programs that promise to help in truss design. However, how are these programs written? What is behind them?

Any assistance would be appreciated.

[Astronuc]

Undergraduate civil/structural engineers start with a basic course in beams and beam mechanics, and basic statics analysis which includes trusses.

This is probably a good place to start - http://emweb.unl.edu/

[technoweasel]

Thank You.