A Finite Element Model on Load Distribution of Slab-on-Girders Bridges

Abstract

With the advent of computer, the finite element method (FEM) has become a most powerful numerical method for structural analysis. However, there is not an extensive literature on using the method as a tool for bridge design. As a matter of fact, bridge designers are reluctant to use FEM in their designs because of its complex nature and its being time consuming in the preparation of the input data and analyzing the results. it is desirable to have further studies on bridge analysis to develop a finite element model which will not only give reliable results but also be 'practical' for a practicing engineer to use as a bridge design tool.
A computer based finite element model is developed for static and dynamic analysis of composite or non-composite slab-on-girders bridge structures, in which the modelling of the bridge itself is using finite element formulation of quadrilateral flat shell elements with eccentric beam stiffeners. it is shown in the paper that this modelling saves much time and effort in the preparation of the input data computation and the analysis of the output data, when compared with other finite element approaches.
The paper addresses only the load distribution to interior and exterior girders of single span simply supported bridges of short and mediums span length. In addition, the results obtained are compared with those from various bridge analysis schemes such as semi-continuum method and finite element method using other complicated approaches.