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STEM Analysis Reveals Physics Behind Jember’s Semanggi Bridge Design and Driving Safety
A 2026 study by Habibah Khusna Baihaqi and a research team from Jember University shows that the Semanggi Bridge in Jember can be used to explain real-world physics, mathematics, and engineering concepts through a STEM approach. Published in the International Journal of Integrative Sciences (IJIS), the study demonstrates how bridge design directly relates to vehicle motion, road safety, and infrastructure planning—making it highly relevant for education and public awareness.
Real Infrastructure as a Learning Tool
As STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education continues to grow globally, educators are increasingly looking for real-world examples to make abstract concepts easier to understand. Infrastructure such as bridges provides a practical way to connect theory with everyday experience.
The Semanggi Bridge in Jember is a grade-separated intersection designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. Its curved ramps and elevation changes make it an ideal case for analyzing motion, forces, and safety in transportation systems.
This research highlights how everyday structures can serve as powerful educational tools, especially in physics and engineering learning.
Methodology: Observing and Calculating a Real Bridge
The research team from Jember University used a descriptive qualitative approach combined with STEM analysis. Data were collected through:
- Direct observation of the Semanggi Bridge
- Documentation such as photos and design visuals
- Measurements using Google Maps and Google Earth
- Supporting literature on physics and engineering
The researchers analyzed the bridge from four integrated perspectives:
- Science (motion, forces, physics laws)
- Technology (materials and construction systems)
- Engineering (design and structural planning)
- Mathematics (calculations of speed, angles, and forces)
This approach allowed the team to explain how theoretical concepts operate in a real infrastructure setting.
Key Findings: Physics and Safety in Bridge Design
The study identifies three main vehicle paths on the bridge: an inclined path and two curved paths. Each reveals important scientific principles.
1. Inclined Path: Acceleration and Gravity
- Vehicles experience changes in speed due to slope
- Gravity, friction, and normal force determine vehicle stability
- The slope angle was calculated at approximately 19.27 degrees
2. Curved Paths: Circular Motion and Centripetal Force
- Vehicles require centripetal force to stay on curved tracks
- This force depends on speed, radius, and friction
- The curve radius was estimated at 12.5 meters
3. Maximum Safe Speed Depends on Road Conditions
- Dry road: up to 35.64 km/h
- Wet road: around 21.82 km/h
- Very slippery road: about 12.6 km/h
These findings show that road safety is directly influenced by physical factors such as friction and curvature. Lower friction—such as during rain—significantly reduces safe driving speed.
4. Friction Is Critical for Safety
- Tire-road friction provides the centripetal force needed for turning
- Without sufficient friction, vehicles may skid outward
Engineering and Technology Insights
Beyond physics, the study also explains the engineering and technological aspects of the bridge.
Engineering Design
- The bridge uses a trumpet interchange system
- This design allows vehicles to move without stopping at intersections
- It reduces traffic conflict points and improves flow efficiency
Structural Components
- Pile foundations ensure stability on underlying soil
- Reinforced concrete supports vertical loads
- Girders distribute loads across the structure
Technology Used
- Prestressed concrete increases strength and durability
- Modular construction speeds up building processes
- Software such as SAP2000 and MATLAB supports structural calculations
These elements show how modern engineering integrates safety, efficiency, and durability into infrastructure.
Why This Matters for Society and Education
The findings have important implications beyond engineering.
For education:
Using real infrastructure like the Semanggi Bridge helps students understand abstract physics concepts more easily. It supports contextual learning, where theory is directly linked to real-life situations.
For public safety:
The study highlights how driving speed should adjust based on road conditions. Understanding these limits can reduce accidents, especially on curved roads.
For urban planning:
The use of grade-separated intersections demonstrates how design can reduce congestion and improve traffic safety in growing cities.
For STEM development:
This research reinforces the importance of integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in solving real-world problems.
Academic Insight
Habibah Khusna Baihaqi of Jember University explains that analyzing real structures helps bridge the gap between theory and practice.
She emphasizes that the Semanggi Bridge demonstrates how physics concepts such as acceleration, circular motion, and friction directly influence transportation safety and infrastructure performance.
Author Profiles
Habibah Khusna Baihaqi, Jember University.
Subiki, Jember University
Wanda Febrianty, Jember University.
Siska Rima Sabila Bulan, Jember University.
Annisa Rahmadina, Jember University.
Source
Journal: International Journal of Integrative Sciences (IJIS)
Year: 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/ijis.v5i3.19
URL : https://journalijis.my.id/index.php/ijis/index
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