Seismic Response of Continuous Span Bridges through Fiber-Based Finite Element Analysis

It is widely known that nonlinear time-history analysis constitutes the most accurate way to simulate the response of structures subjected to strong levels of seismic excitation. This analytical method is based on sound underlying principles and has the capability to reproduce the intrinsic inelastic dynamic behavior of structures. Nonetheless, comparisons with experimental results from large-scale testing of structures are still needed, in order to ensure adequate levels of confidence in this numerical methodology. The fiber modeling approach employed in the current endeavor inherently accounts for geometric nonlinearities and material inelasticity, without a need for calibration of plastic hinges mechanisms, typical in concentrated plasticity models. The resulting combination of analysis accuracy and modeling simplicity, allows thus to overcome the perhaps not fully justifiable sense of complexity associated to nonlinear dynamic analysis. The fiber-based modeling approach is employed in the framework of a finite element program downloaded from the Internet for seismic response analysis of framed structures. The reliability and accuracy of the program are demonstrated by numerically reproducing pseudo-dynamic tests on a 4-span continuous deck concrete bridge. Modelling assumptions are discussed, together with their implications on numerical results of the nonlinear time-history analyses, which were found to be in good agreement with experimental results.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/16713664
• Authors:
  • Casarotti, Chiara
  • Pinho, Rui
• Publication Date: 2006-6

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 119-131
• Serial:
  • Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Vibration
  • Volume: 5
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: Springer
  • ISSN: 1671-3664
  • EISSN: 1993-503X
  • Serial URL: http://link.springer.com/journal/11803

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge decks; Bridge design; Concrete bridges; Continuous girder bridges; Dynamic structural analysis; Finite element method; Seismicity; Simulation
• Uncontrolled Terms: Nonlinear time-history analyses
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01038469
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 29 2006 11:07AM