definition
strict definition
submersible bridge
A movable bridge whose span sinks below water to allow boat traffic to move over it.
A submersible bridge is a movable bridge whose deck is lowered well below the surface of the water, allowing boat traffic to cross over the sunken deck.
The deck opens the navigation route by moving downward into the water. Boat traffic passes above the lowered deck rather than beneath a raised span.
This controlled movement distinguishes the form from a fixed low bridge that is merely flooded. The lowering must provide enough clearance over the deck for the intended boat passage.
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. -
swing bridge
A movable bridge with a span that turns horizontally about a fixed pivot at its center or one end. -
table bridge
A movable bridge whose span is pushed upward from below at both ends, usually by hydraulic pillars. -
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.