Optimum Design of Load-Bearing Box Girder Diaphragms Having Supports at the Flange/Web Junctions

摘要

A parametric study is carried out to determine the optimum design of load-bearing box girder diaphragms in which the supports are positioned at the flange/web junctions of the box girder. The parameters varied include the depth/breadth ratio, the depth/thickness ratio, the size and location of stif-feners and the eccentricity of loading. The criterion used for comparison purposes is the collapse load for each configuration, this being determined using a finite element package. Finally, the effects on the collapse load of the different configurations are discussed and recommendations made.