Browsing by Author "Hudecek, Martin"

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    Structural Behaviour of Spatial Arch Bridges
    (2017) Hudecek, Martin; Shrive, Nigel Graham; Sparling, Bruce; El-Hacha, Raafat; Sudak, Leszek Jozef; Wong, Ron Chik-Kwong; Priest, Jeffrey Alan
    This thesis investigates particular aspects of the structural behaviour of a new form of bridge structure called spatial arch bridge (SAB). SABs are designed to be outstanding pieces of architecture. Due to the enhancement in graphical and structural analysis software, the number of SABs is increasing. However, the complexity of SABs results in certain challenges in structural analysis and design. The unique combination of the arch, hangers, and deck result in the development of out-of-plane loads that significantly influence the structural response. This work focuses on SABs with an inferior deck suspended on flexible hangers (cables) below the arch. Three different spatial arrangements of the arch and deck are developed and analyzed to fill particular gaps in the current state of knowledge. Finite element analysis (FEA) is employed as the main analysis tool. Both linear and nonlinear parametric models are developed to address the objectives of the research. Ratios of primary and secondary geometric variables including arch rise, span, deck reach, and inclination or rotation of the parabolic arch are established to identify the trends in the structural response and to consider the effects of various types of loads. The significance of variability in the bending stiffness of the arch and the deck is studied to determine the optimal combination of these parameters that results in spatial configurations with minimal susceptibility to buckling as a function of particular types of end conditions of the deck. The work describes aspects of advanced composite materials (ACM), such as a low modulus of elasticity and time-dependent material properties in all-composite assemblies, and determines the applicability of commonly used durable structural profiles in SABs taking into account the nonlinear character of the cables and the effect of additional tensioning of the cables. The results of the large number of analyses conducted are summarized in tables accompanied with charts and schematic sketches that are intended to serve as guidelines when analyzing or designing structures similar in nature to the ones described in this work. Design criteria are proposed.