The Application of the Finite Strip Method on Curved Box Girder Bridges

摘要

Curved bridges have become a major component of highway systems in recent years. Elevatedrnfreeways and multi level interchange are very common in densely populated areas and could hardlyrnbe constructed without curved bridges. Usually, these bridges are of cellular cross section so thatrnthe high torsional moment due to curvature can be resisted economically.rnTo date, methods of analysis and design have been very approximate, but because of the largernnumber of curved bridges being constructed everywhere, refined methods of analysis are desirable.rnIn this paper, the main geometric parameters of curved bridges are studied. The finite strip methodrnof analysis applied to folded plate structures as a box girder, for which a general computer programrnwas written. This method of analysis is restricted to structures simply supported along their straightrnradial edges.rnFinally, on the basis of this refined analytical method, the behaviour of curved box girder bridges isrnstudied. In particular, wheel load distribution characteristics are investigated especially with respectrnto the load position of the bridges.