A non-linear method to compute the buffeting response of a bridge validation of the model through wind tunnel tests

摘要

The non-linear aerodynamic effects on a bridge deck section are both experimentally and numerically investigated using a new time-domain numerical model based on the combination of a non-linear corrected quasi-steady theory and a rheological approach. The model is developed to reproduce the response of a bridge to turbulent wind taking into account the non-linearities of the aerodynamic forces induced by the fluctuation of the angle of attack. The methodology introduces rheologic mechanical model to reproduce the dependence of aerodynamic forces on the reduced velocity. Through a one-shot integration the single numerical model is able to describe the static response, the low-frequency response and the high-frequency response of the bridge to turbulent wind. Finally, the numerical model is validated against aeroelastic wind tunnel tests performed by means of an active turbulence generator acting on a deck sectional model suspended on springs.