Deformation monitoring of long-span railway bridges based on SBAS-InSAR technology

The deformation monitoring of long-span railway bridges is significant to ensure the safety of human life and property.The interferometric synthetic aperture radar(In SAR)technology has the advantage of high accuracy in bridge deformation monitoring.This study monitored the deformation of the Ganjiang Super Bridge based on the small baseline subsets(SBAS)In SAR technology and Sentinel-1A data.We analyzed the deformation results combined with bridge structure,temperature,and riverbed sediment scouring.The results are as follows:(1)The Ganjiang Super Bridge area is stable overall,with deformation rates ranging from-15.6 mm/yr to 10.7 mm/yr(2)The settlement of the Ganjiang Super Bridge deck gradually increases from the bridge tower toward the main span,which conforms to the typical deformation pattern of a cable-stayed bridge.(3)The sediment scouring from the riverbed cause the serious settlement on the bridge’s east side compared with that on the west side.(4)The bridge deformation negatively correlates with temperature,with a faster settlement at a higher temperature and a slow rebound trend at a lower temperature.The study findings can provide scientific data support for the health monitoring of long-span railway bridges.

Dynamic Response Impact of Vehicle Braking on Simply Supported Beam Bridges with Corrugated Steel Webs Based on Vehicle-Bridge Coupled Vibration Analysis

A novel approach for analyzing coupled vibrations between vehicles and bridges is presented,taking into account spatiotemporal effects and mechanical phenomena resulting fromvehicle braking.Efficient modeling and solution of bridge vibrations induced by vehicle deceleration are realized using this method.The method’s validity and reliability are substantiated through numerical examples.A simply supported beam bridge with a corrugated steel web is taken as an example and the effects of parameters such as the initial vehicle speed,braking acceleration,braking location,and road surface roughness on the mid-span displacement and impact factor of the bridge are analyzed.The results show that vehicle braking significantly amplifies mid-span displacement and impact factor responses in comparison to uniform vehicular motion across the bridge.Notably,the influence of wheelto-bridge friction forces is of particular significance and cannot be overlooked.When the vehicle initiates braking near the middle of the span,both the mid-span displacement and impact factor of the bridge exhibit substantial increases,further escalating with higher braking acceleration.Under favorable road surface conditions,the midspan displacement and the impact factor during vehicle braking may exceed the design values stipulated by codes.It is important to note that road surface roughness exerts a more pronounced effect on the impact factor of the bridge in comparison to the effects of vehicle braking.

A discussion about the limitations of the Eurocode’s high-speed load model for railway bridges

High-speed railway bridges are subjected to normative limitations concerning maximum permissible deck accelerations.For the design of these structures,the European norm EN 1991-2 introduces the high-speed load model(HSLM)—a set of point loads intended to include the effects of existing high-speed trains.Yet,the evolution of current trains and the recent development of new load models motivate a discussion regarding the limits of validity of the HSLM.For this study,a large number of randomly generated load models of articulated,conventional,and regular trains are tested and compared with the envelope of HSLM effects.For each type of train,two sets of 100,000 load models are considered:one abiding by the limits of the EN 1991-2 and another considering wider limits.This comparison is achieved using both a bridge-independent metric(train signatures)and dynamic analyses on a case study bridge(the Canelas bridge of the Portuguese Railway Network).For the latter,a methodology to decrease the computational cost of moving loads analysis is introduced.Results show that some theoretical load models constructed within the stipulated limits of the norm can lead to effects not covered by the HSLM.This is especially noted in conventional trains,where there is a relation with larger distances between centres of adjacent vehicle bogies.

Random Differential Settlement Effects on Reliability of Existing Bridges

This paper investigates the impact of differential foundation settlement on the reliability of bridge superstructure based on loads and resistances statistical properties in Missouri State.Maximum deterministic differential settlement is often used in current AASHTO LRFD(load and resistance factored design)specification.However,the expected foundation settlement is quite different from the actual settlement due to the soil’s large variability.Therefore,it makes sense to consider settlement as a random variable.In this paper,a lognormal distribution with coefficient of variation of 0.25 of random settlement is considered in reliability analysis based on limited previous studies.Dead and live loads are modeled as random variables with normal and Gumbel Type I distributions,respectively.Considering the regional traffic condition on Missouri roadways,the live load effect on existing bridges based on weight-in-motion data is also investigated.The calibrated resistance statistical properties such as bias and COV(coefficient of variance)are used for reliability analysis.Total 14 existing bridges based on Strength I Limit State are analyzed.Since no differential settlement is considered in the past designed bridges in Missouri,small differential settlement can significantly reduce the reliability indices of the superstructure,depending upon the span length and rigidity of the girder.The analysis results also show that the reliability of existing steel-girder bridges is consistently higher than prestressed concrete and solid slab bridges;the shorter and stiffer the spans,the more significant the settlement’s effect on the reliability of bridge superstructures;As the span length ratio becomes less than 0.75,the girder and solid slab bridges’reliability drops significantly at small settlements.

Numerical Simulation Analysis of Welded Joints in Arch Ribs of Large Span Steel Pipe Arch Bridges

In order to study the residual stress distribution law of welded joints of arch ribs of large-span steel pipe concrete arch bridges,numerical simulation of temperature,stress and strain fields based on ABAQUS for welded joints of arch-ribbed steel tubes using 7-,8-and 9-layer welds is carried out and its accuracy is demonstrated.The steel pipe welding temperature changes,residual stress distribution,different processes residual stress changes in the law,the prediction of post-weld residual stress distribution and deformation are studied in this paper.The results show that the temperature field values and test results are more consistent with the accuracy of numerical simulation of welding,the welding process is mainly in the form of heat transfer;Residual high stresses are predominantly distributed in the Fusion zone(FZ)and Heat-affected zone(HAZ),with residual stress levels tending to decrease from the center of the weld along the axial path,the maximum stress appears in the FZ and HAZ junction;The number of welding layers has an effect on the residual stress distribution,the number of welding layers increases,the residual stress tends to decrease,while the FZ and HAZ high stress area range shrinks;Increasing the number of plies will increase the amount of residual distortion.

Numerical Simulation-Based Analysis of the Impact of Overloading on Segmentally Assembled Bridges

Segmentally assembled bridges are increasinglyfinding engineering applications in recent years due to their unique advantages,especially as urban viaducts.Vehicle loads are one of the most important variable loads acting on bridge structures.Accordingly,the influence of overloaded vehicles on existing assembled bridge structures is an urgent concern at present.This paper establishes thefinite element model of the segmentally assembled bridge based on ABAQUS software and analyzes the influence of vehicle overload on an assembled girder bridge struc-ture.First,afinite element model corresponding to the target bridge is established based on ABAQUS software,and the load is controlled to simulate vehicle movement in each area of the traveling zone at different times.Sec-ond,the key cross-sections of segmental girder bridges are monitored in real time based on the force character-istics of continuous girder bridges,and they are compared with the simulation results.Finally,a material damage ontology model is introduced,and the structural damage caused by different overloading rates is compared and analyzed.Results show that thefinite element modeling method is accurate by comparing with on-site measured data,and it is suitable for the numerical simulation of segmental girder bridges;Dynamic sensors installed at 1/4L,1/2L,and 3/4L of the segmental girder main beams could be used to identify the dynamic response of segmental girder bridges;The bottom plate of the segmental girder bridge is mostly damaged at the position where the length of the precast beam section changes and the midspan position.With the increase in load,damage in the direction of the bridge develops faster than that in the direction of the transverse bridge.Thefindings of this study can guide maintenance departments in the management and maintenance of bridges and vehicles.

An Rapid Assessment Method for Bearing Capacity of RC Girder Bridges Based on Residual Strain

In order to realize the in-situ evaluation of reinforced concrete bridges subjected to fatigue for a long time or after earthquake, an evaluation method for cumulative damage of concrete structures based on unloading elastic modulus was proposed. First, according to the concrete stress-strain curve and the statistical relationship between residual strain and cumulative strain, the calculation method of static equivalent strain and residual strain concrete based on unloading elastic modulus and the method for estimating the strength of concrete after damage were proposed. The detailed steps of field test and analysis and the practical damage indicators of residual strain were given. Then, the evaluation method of existing stress and strain of Reinforced Concrete Bridge under dead load and the concept of “equivalent dead load bending moment” were put forward. On this basis, the paper analyzed the root cause of the decrease of bearing capacity of Reinforced Concrete Bridge after fatigue damage, and pointed out that the equivalent strain or residual strain of reinforced concrete increases under the fatigue effect, which led to the decreasing of actual live moment and deformation performance while the ultimate load-carrying capacity remained constant or very little decrease. The evaluation method of structure residual capacity was given, and through comparative analysis of eight T reinforced concrete beams that had been in service for 35 years with the static failure tests, the effectiveness of the method was verified.

Application Strategy of BIM Technology in the Forward Design of Bridges

Bridge engineering is highly specialized and has spatial characteristics,which puts forward higher requirements for design work.The advancement of information technology has provided ample tools to facilitate bridge design work,with building information modeling(BIM)technology being one of them.BIM technology ensures the efficiency and quality of the forward design of bridges,while also reducing construction costs.This article starts with defining the concept of BIM technology,followed by a discussion on its advantages in bridge design and application process,which serves as a reference for other bridge designers.

Analysis of Detection and Monitoring Technology in the Construction and Maintenance of Large Bridges

Currently,there is significant attention placed on the construction,management,and maintenance of large service bridges.Within the realm of bridge maintenance management,the utilization of detection and monitoring technology is indispensable.By employing these technologies,we can effectively identify any structural defects within the bridge,promptly uncover unknown risks,proactively establish maintenance strategies,and prevent the rapid deterioration of bridge conditions.This article aims to explore the advantages of applying bridge monitoring and testing technology and to discuss various methods for implementing detection and monitoring technology throughout the construction,management,and maintenance phases of large bridges.Ultimately,this will contribute to ensuring the safe operation of large bridges.

Defect Inspection Technology for Steel Truss Suspension Bridges

Steel truss suspension bridges are prone to developing defects after prolonged use.These defects may include corrosion of the main cable or the steel truss.To ensure the normal and safe functioning of the suspension bridge,it is necessary to inspect for defects promptly,understand the cause of the defect,and locate it through the use of inspection technology.By promptly addressing defects,the suspension bridge’s safety can be ensured.The author has analyzed the common defects and causes of steel truss suspension bridges and proposed specific inspection technologies.This research is intended to aid in the timely discovery of steel truss suspension bridge defects.

Review and Prospect of Research on Structural Health Monitoring Technology for Bridges

As a crucial infrastructure in the transport system,the safe operation of bridges is directly related to all aspects of people’s daily lives.The development of bridge structural health monitoring technology and its application play an important role in ensuring the safety and extending the service life of bridges.This paper carries out in-depth research and analysis on the related technology of bridge structural health monitoring.Firstly,the existing monitoring technologies at home and abroad are sorted out,and the advantages and problems of various methods are compared and analyzed,including nondestructive testing,stress measurement,vibration characteristic identification,and other commonly used monitoring technologies.Secondly,the key technologies and equipment in the bridge health monitoring system,such as sensor technology,data acquisition,and processing technology,are introduced in detail.Finally,the development trend in the field of bridge health monitoring is prospected from both theoretical research and technical application.In the future,with the development of emerging technologies such as big data,cloud computing,and the Internet of Things,it is expected that bridge health monitoring with intelligent and systematic features will be more widely applied to provide a stronger guarantee for the safe and efficient operation of bridges.

Maintenance,Repair,and Reinforcement Measures for Dilapidated Small and Medium-Sized Bridges

The paper initiates by exploring the importance of maintaining,repairing,and reinforcing bridges.Subsequently,it delves into routine and preventative maintenance measures tailored for small to medium-sized bridges.Additionally,the paper examines repair and reinforcement techniques specifically designed for deteriorated small and medium-sized bridges,encompassing methods for fortifying both the bridge foundation and upper and lower structures.Lastly,the paper proposes suggestions aimed at fostering discussions and exchanges on the development of maintenance and repair processes for deteriorated small and medium-sized bridges.

Analysis of Safety Assessment and Testing of Heavy Traffic Vehicles on Old Bridges Without Data

This article presents a real-life project that aimed to evaluate the safety of traffic vehicles on old bridges without any prior data.The project involved various safety inspections,including conventional,static,and dynamic load inspections and safety assessments.After conducting these tests,it was concluded that the structure of the old bridge is relatively safe,with only a few bumps.The bridge could function normally following appropriate treatment.The analysis provides valuable insights into the assessment of the quality and safety of such bridges to ensure the safe driving of heavy vehicles.

Application Strategy of Digital Comprehensive Management and Maintenance System for Bridges

Effective application of digital integrated management and maintenance systems is essential for successful operation and maintenance management of bridge projects.This article analyzes the application strategy of such systems.It provides an overview of comprehensive digital management and maintenance of bridges,an analysis of the basic components of the integrated management and maintenance system,and its application strategies.This study aims to offer guidance for the application of the system and to improve the quality of modern bridge engineering management and maintenance work.

A Review of the Key Points in the Design of Small-Radius Curved Ramp Bridges

This article explores the fundamentals of small-radius curved ramp bridges.It covers the selection of box girder spans,support methods,and forms,along with design optimization techniques for this type of bridge structure.The purpose of this paper is to provide robust support for enhancing the design quality of these bridges and ensuring their efficacy in real-world applications.

Strategies for Applying LED Lights in Night Space Lighting for Bridges

LED lights have been widely used in urban night space lighting in recent years as they are small,energy-saving,and efficient.This article explores the use of LEDs in bridge night space lighting and their application strategies.The aim is to offer valuable insights and references for urban planners and bridge lighting designers in China.By advancing the application of LED technology in bridge night lighting,the goal is to enhance the city’s nighttime ambiance,making the bridge an iconic landmark and a defining feature of the city.

Regularity classification and corresponding analysis method requirements of horizontally curved bridges with unequal pier heights

The seismic behavior of horizontally curved bridges,particularly with unequal height piers,is more complicated than that of straight bridges due to their geometric properties.In this study,the seismic responses of several horizontally curved single-column-bent viaducts with various degrees of curvature and different pier heights have been investigated,employing three different analysis approaches:namely,modal pushover analysis,uniform load method,and nonlinear time history analysis.Considering the investigated bridge configurations and utilizing the most common regularity indices,the results indicate that viaducts with 45-degree and 90-degree deck subtended angles can be categorized as regular and moderately irregular,respectively,while the bridges with 180-degree deck subtended angle are found to be highly irregular.Furthermore,the viaducts whose pier heights are asymmetric may be considered as irregular for almost all ranges of the deck subtended angles.The effects of higher transverse and longitudinal modes are discussed and the minimum analysis requirements are identified to assess the seismic response of such bridge configurations for design purposes.Although the Regularity Indices used here are useful tools to distinguish between regular and irregular bridges,further studies are needed to improve their reliability.

Energy-based damage assessment of continuous-span reinforced concrete highway bridges

This paper conducts a comparative study on seismic damage to reinforced concrete(RC)bridges,using three damage models:Park and Ang,Hindi and Sexsmith,and input energy-based damage(IEBD)indices,and presents a global cumulative damage model based on the IEBD index to establish a practical damage assessment of an overall bridge system.A series of RC bridges are studied under seismic loadings,and to compare the efficiency and reliability of the damage indices,damage curves of RC piers are developed,and damage levels of piers are calculated at design basis earthquake(DBE)and maximum considered earthquake(MCE)levels.The global cumulative damage index is calculated for bridge models regarding damage values of components.The results indicate that the IEBD index shows a gradual progression of damage and provides reasonable values for different damage levels of piers compared to two other damage indices.Moreover,the global cumulative damage index shows the impact of induced damage to a certain component regarding the damage level of the overall bridge system.Moreover,this new approach is a relatively simple and practical tool for seismic damage assessment of RC bridge systems,which can be implemented in finite element models,particularly in the absence of experimental data.

An Analysis of the Dynamic Behavior of Damaged Reinforced Concrete Bridges under Moving Vehicle Loads by Using the Moving Mesh Technique

This work proposes a numerical investigation on the effects of damage on the structural response of Reinforced Concrete(RC)bridge structures commonly adopted in highway and railway networks.An effective three-dimensional FE-based numerical model is developed to analyze the bridge’s structural response under several damage scenarios,including the effects of moving vehicle loads.In particular,the longitudinal and transversal beams are modeled through solid finite elements,while horizontal slabs are made of shell elements.Damage phenomena are also incorporated in the numerical model according to a smeared approach consistent with Continuum Damage Mechanics(CDM).In such a context,the proposed method utilizes an advanced and efficient computational strategy for reproducing Vehicle-Bridge Interaction(VBI)effects based on a moving mesh technique consistent with the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian(ALE)formulation.The proposed model adopts a moving mesh interface for tracing the positions of the contact points between the vehicle’s wheels and the bridge slabs.Such modeling strategy avoids using extremely refined discretization for structural members,thus drastically reducing computational efforts.Vibrational analyses in terms of damage scenarios are presented to verify how the presence of damage affects the natural frequencies of the structural system.In addition,a comprehensive investigation regarding the response of the bridge under moving vehicles is developed,also providing results in terms of Dynamic Amplification Factor(DAFs)for typical design bridge variables.

An extended multiple-support response spectrum method incorporating fluid-structure interaction for seismic analysis of deep-water bridges

The effects of ground motion spatial variability(GMSV)or fluid-structure interaction(FSI)on the seismic responses of deep-water bridges have been extensively examined.However,there are few studies on the seismic performance of bridges considering GMSV and FSI effects simultaneously.In this study,the original multiple-support response spectrum(MSRS)method is extended to consider FSI effect for seismic analysis of deep-water bridges.The solution of hydrodynamic pressure on a pier is obtained using the radiation wave theory,and the FSI-MSRS formulation is derived according to the random vibration theory.The influence of FSI effect on the related coefficients is analyzed.A five-span steel-concrete continuous beam bridge is adopted to conduct the numerical simulations.Different load conditions are designed to investigate the variation of the bridge responses when considering the GMSV and FSI effects.The results indicate that the incoherence effect and wave passage effect decrease the bridge responses with a maximum percentage of 86%,while the FSI effect increases the responses with a maximum percentage of 26%.The GMSV and FSI effects should be included in the seismic design of deep-water bridges.