definition
strict definition
table bridge
A movable bridge whose span is pushed upward from below at both ends, usually by hydraulic pillars.
A table bridge is a movable bridge whose span is pushed up from below at its two ends, usually by hydraulic pillars. The movement is similar to that of a vertical-lift bridge, but the lifting force comes from below instead of from above.
The supporting mechanism raises the deck from underneath. Hydraulic pillars are usual, but the direction of the lifting force is the essential distinction.
The deck's rising movement resembles a vertical-lift span. The table-bridge form is identified by the support pushing from below rather than lifting from above.
Related definitions
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bascule bridge
A movable bridge with one or two leaves that rise on hinges with assistance from counterweights. -
curling bridge
A movable bridge with a flexible or segmented span which opens by curling vertically. -
drawbridge
A hinged bridge lifted at its free end by chains, cables, or ropes, without a counterweight at the hinge. -
folding bridge
A movable bridge with a segmented span that folds horizontally like an accordion to open the crossing. -
retractable bridge
A movable bridge whose deck opens by sliding back from the channel over or under its approach. -
rolling bascule bridge
A movable bridge whose span rises as large gears roll along a shoreline rack, without a fixed hinge. -
submersible bridge
A movable bridge whose span sinks below water to allow boat traffic to move over it. -
swing bridge
A movable bridge with a span that turns horizontally about a fixed pivot at its center or one end. -
tilt bridge
A movable bridge with a curved span that forms an arch when rotated at the ends. -
transporter bridge
A bridge which conveys traffic across its span via gondolas suspended from a high track or cables. -
vertical-lift bridge
A movable bridge whose level span is raised along towers at its ends, usually by counterweighted cables.