Identification of Vehicular Axle Weights with a Bridge Weigh-in-Motion System Considering Transverse Distribution of Wheel Loads

A modified two-dimensional (2D) Moses algorithm for acquiring the field-calibrated influence line (IL) of an existing bridge is presented, based on strain data acquired continuously at a high scanning rate with calibration vehicles of known axle weights and axle spacings crossing an instrumented bridge. Considering the transverse distribution of the wheel loads on each girder attributable to the 2D behavior of the slab-girder bridge, the IL of each of the girders can be calculated, which does not require the girders to possess identical material and geometric properties. By using the calculated IL of each girder as a reference, a modified 2D Moses algorithm was derived to identify axle weights of moving vehicles, taking into consideration the transverse distribution of the wheel loads on each girder. Mathematical equations to calculate ILs and axle weights were derived, and the proposed algorithms were implemented by a computer program. The accuracy of the IL calculation and axle weight identification was verified through a field test of a bridge on U.S. Route 78 in Alabama. The identified axle weights showed agreement with the static measurements from weighing pads and with results from the bending-plate weigh-in-motion (BPWIM) system near the instrumented bridge.

• Record URL:
  • https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)BE.1943-5592.0000533
• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/32947845
• Supplemental Notes:
  • © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
• Authors:
  • Zhao, Hua
  • Uddin, Nasim
  • O’Brien, Eugene J.
  • Shao, Xudong
  • Zhu, Ping
• Publication Date: 2014-3

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Web
• Features: References;
• Pagination: 04013008
• Serial:
  • Journal of Bridge Engineering
  • Volume: 19
  • Issue Number: 3
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 1084-0702
  • Serial URL: http://ojps.aip.org/beo

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Algorithms; Axle load force; Bridges; Calibration; Field tests; Girder bridges; Instrumentation; Loads; Mathematical models; Sensors; Traffic loads; Weigh in motion; Wheel loads
• Geographic Terms: Alabama
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01506125
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS, ASCE
• Created Date: Jan 30 2014 1:12PM