Post-Tensioned Composite Bridge: Reliability-Based Optimization of Selected Design Parameters

摘要

In the paper small-sample double-loop optimization method is employed to find selected design parameters of a single-span post-tensioned composite bridge to ensure its reliability and load-bearing capacity. The selected approach consists in nesting the computation of the failure probability with respect to the current design within the optimization loop. The analyzed bridge is made of precast post-tensioned concrete girders, each composed of six segments that are connected by the transverse joints. Bridge spatial deterioration brings uncertainty into actual values of concrete strength in transversal joints and of actual loss of pre-stressing. Due to their significant effect on the bridge load-bearing capacity, both were considered as uncertain design parameters with the aim to find their critical values corresponding to desired reliability level and load-bearing capacity.