Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers

(Lungsod ng Maynila Chapter)

Continuing Professional Education Seminar on
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Computer-Aided Modeling, Analysis &

Design Of Bridge Structures

By
Naveed Anwar, D. Eng

Asian Center for Engineering Computations and Software

Asian Institute of Technology

In Association with
Computers and Structures Inc., Berkeley, California, USA
 Asian Center for Engineering Computations and Software
is part of
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

School of Engineering and Technology

at the
Asian Institute of Technology, AIT
Bangkok Thailand
 Session-1
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

9:45 – 12:00

Overview Of Computer-Aided Analysis & Design of Bridge

Structures, Bridge Loadings

Modeling, Analysis and Design of Bridge Deck Systems

Design of I, T and Box Girders
 Key Systems

Modeling Tendering
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

System Selection
Analysis Construction
Concept Design
Design Management
Value Engineering
Detailing Erection

Maintenance Management
Retrofitting Monitoring
Rehabilitation Evaluation
 Bridge Design Problem

• The bridge design problem can be classified

in number of ways
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– based on bridge size

– bridge type
– bridge location
– primary material
– structural system
– construction methodology and so on
 Bridge Categories - Complexity

• Category-1
– Small to medium size roadway and waterway
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

bridges. These include the bridges over canals,

small rivers, flyovers, elevated urban roads,
bridges over railway crossings etc.
• Category-2
– Large span bridges and mega projects. These
include bridges crossing over wide rivers, valley
crossings, bridges over ocean straits, highly
elevated roadway bridges passing through open
landscape and mountains.
 Bridges: Volume Vs Size

• Category-1 bridges account for 90% or more

of all the bridges built
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Category-2 bridges carry far more impact by

scale, cost, complexity, significance,
importance and visibility

• The impact demands and range of computer

application and software are quite different for
the two categories
 Impact of Software - General

• A division between the profession

– Some love it and demand, crave total automation
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Some use it as tool for creativity and for more

challenging designs
– Some accept it as necessary evil and use it
selectively and sensibly
– Some maintain that it has reduced the
understanding and ability of engineers to think and
wished people will go back to MDM

• Software It is here to stay! (?)

 Impact of Software – Bridge Design

• Category-1 : Designers of Ordinary Bridges

– Mostly favor greater automation, out-of-the-box
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

solutions, parametric systems, integrated

modeling-analysis-design-detailing-drafting

• Category-2: Designers of Large Bridges

– Mostly prefer greater designer control, specialized
software for different tasks, greater customization,
programmability, open architecture for linkage
 Computer Aided Solution

Conceptual Design
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Preliminary Design
Geometric Design
Modeling and Analysis

Component Design
Detailing
Drafting
Documentation

Approximate Extent of Computer Applications

in Bridge Design Steps
 Computer Aided Solution

Design Step Computer Application Type

Expert Systems, Artificial Analysis Systems, Value
Conceptual Design
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Engineering,
Preliminary Design Standard Database and Libraries, Expert Systems

Geometric Design Alignment and functional design programs

Modeling and Analysis Finite Element Analysis

RC Design, Steel Design, PSC Design, Special

Component Design
Design, Girder Design, Slab Design, Pier Design
Detailing Automated Detailing, Computer Aided Drafting
Drafting Computer Aided Drafting
Analysis and Design Programs, Word Processing,
Documentation
Spread Sheets, Database
 Computer Aided Solution
Design Step Sample Software
Conceptual
ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges
Design
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Preliminary
ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges
Design
Geometric SAP 2000 Bridge Modular, ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges, Bridgade, LEAP
Design Bridge, QConBridge, SAM, MIDAS-WinBDS, RM2006
SAP 2000 Bridge Modular, ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges, Bridgade, LUSAS
Modeling and
Bridge, LEAP Bridge, RM2006, SAM, STRAP AutoBridge, ACES, MIDAS-
Analysis
WinBDS
SAP 2000 Bridge Modular, ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges, RM2006, LUSAS
Component
Bridge, LEAP Bridge, QConBridge, SAM, STRAP AutoBridge, ACES,
Design
MIDAS-WinBDS
Detailing SAP 2000 Bridge Modular, ANSYS/Civil FEM Bridges, Bridgade, RM2006
Drafting LEAP-Bridge, MIDAS-WinBDS

MSWord. Excel, Access, SAP 2000 Bridge Modular, Bridgade, LEAP

Documentation
Bridge, QConBridge, ACES, MIDAS-WinBDS, RM2006
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Specific Issues in
Bridge Modeling and Analysis
 Developments

• There were several specialized software for bridge

modeling and analysis but they were typically
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

developed and used by bridge designers and related

departments
• These days, the developments in the core finite
element solutions have almost been standardized and
the focus has turned to development of software that
works more closely and directly in the problem
domain often hiding the underline solutions.
• These programs handle varying levels of the bridge
design problem such as: modeling and analysis,
integrated design, component design, substructure
design, and some handles integrated geometric and
structural design
 Special Issues

• The modeling and analysis of bridge structure present

some unique problems not found in other structures
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

such as tall buildings and industrial structures

Modeling Issues Comments

Traditionally this problem has been handled by influence lines
and influence surfaces.

In computer aided analysis, this may be handled by automatic

The problem of the generation of multiple load cases representing moving loads.
moving loads
Many programs generate vehicles, traffic lanes following the
road alignment; compute the corresponding post processing
of results. Some programs also generate animated display of
deformations and stresses.
 Special Issues

Modeling Issues Comments

In bridges, the joints are often required to transfer heavy loads,
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

while allowing movement.

The joints that must
allow movement while This presents special modeling issues for selecting appropriate
transferring loads and connection elements and introduces non-linearity.
forces Even a simple elastomeric bearing is difficult to model properly if
right tools are not available.

Generally post tensioning is designed to counter the actions

obtained from analysis. However, as many bridges are
The interaction indeterminate structures, the secondary effects of pos-tensioning
between the post affect the basic response, hence complicating the analysis and
tensioning design and design cycle.
the basic behavior
 Special Issues

Modeling Issues Comments

In bridges often members are of massive proportions requiring more
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

refined models using shell or solid elements.

The large proportion
and scale of the Also the assumptions of linear strain distribution may not hold true in
many cases, especially at junctions and joints.
structure and its
components Often several types of models may be needed to complete the
analysis of some parts.

The inter The construction sequence and construction methodology greatly

affect the modeling as well as analysis, especially for segmental
dependency of
construction, cantilever construction, incremental launching and
construction construction of cable stayed bridges.
methods,
construction Not many software are equipped to handle the aspects
sequence, modeling
and design
 Special Issues

Modeling Issues Comments

Large number of load types and cases arising from environmental factors,
Large number of construction sequence, vehicle movements, time dependent effects, post-
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

tensioning etc.
different load cases
and combinations This also leads to a very large number of load combinations to be considered
in member design.

Extensive Several of the major bridge systems, such as cable stayed, suspension, tied
arch, cantilever, stressed ribbon etc. possess high degree of non linearity due
nonlinearity to the presence of cables, coupled effect of creep, differential movements,
inherently present in relaxation etc.
the structure itself
Many long span bridges with flexible decks are susceptible to flutter, vortex
shedding and even hyper elasticity with significant interaction between
structure and wind.
Complexities due to
wind induced forces Not many software are capable to handle wind analysis properly, and often
and motion wind tunnel tests are carried out to supplement the analysis.
 Special Issues

Modeling Issues Comments

Due to large dimensions and often different types and scale of
members, the local dynamic response of such model may affect
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

the global dynamic response, specialty when determining

primary time period, mass participation and mode extraction.
Complexities in
dynamic response Sometime multiple but independent support excitation may be
needed for seismic analysis of long span bridges, with possibly
different response spectrum or time history functions..

The proper modeling of joints, bearings and connections is very

important for the determination of bridge response, especially
for lateral; and longitudinal faces.
Special modeling
needs for handling The assumptions of simple, pin, roller or fixed supports are
bearing, joints and often insufficient.

connections Most of the joints and bearings behave in a highly non linear
manner. Only software that has the capability of handling non-
linear links and connections can be used effectively.
 Special Issues and Specific Modeling
Problems

Modeling Issues Comments

Modeling of abutments can be significantly difficult. Active-
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Special problems passive response, the soil structure interaction combined with
involved in the modeling the non-linearity of the bearings, anchor blocks, restraining
blocks etc. complicate the behavior and hence modeling and
of abutments and analysis.
foundation

The geometric design requirement such as curved decks,

super elevation, vertical curves, skewed supports, merging
and diverging bridge decks, very tall piers and towers,
Complexities in variable depth and wide multi-cell box girders, etc make the
generating finite element generation of models a very difficult problem.
models to account for
Special modeling techniques may be needed
geometric design.
 Other Issues

• There may be other specialized issues to be

considered in some bridges, such as:
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– The temperature effect caused by heat of hydration

in hollow thin pier
– Vibration of bridge due to vehicular high-speed
movement as high speed train
– High water level during construction period
– Performance of bridge under blast loading
 Cable Stayed and Suspension Bridges

• Modeling of Cables and Hangers

– Consider the nonlinearity due to cable profile and material
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Consider the pre-tensioning and multiple stressing cases

– Consider the partial fixity at anchors and local anchor forces
– Consider the dynamic response, flutter, resonance etc
– Local modeling and design of saddles and anchors, including
fatigue

• Modeling of Deck
– The extent of deck model and level of detail. Several models
may be needed
– Composite action, transverse load transfer, tensional
stiffness and modeling
– Axial forces in the entire deck, stiffening and softening
 Cable Stayed and Suspension Bridges

• Modeling of Pylons
– Modeling the flexibility and stability
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Partial construction loading and unbalanced

conditions
– Interaction of pylons and cables
– Stability, P-Delta, Buckling, Verticality etc.

• Modeling of Expansion Joint systems

– Accommodating Large movements (as much as
0.5 m or more)
– Transfer of large forces
 Cable Stayed and Suspension Bridges

• Modeling of Foundations
– Very large loads and moments from pylons
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Modeling of water waves, collision etc

– Soil-structure-water interaction
– Anchors and dead-man modeling and design
 Developments in Computer Applications
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling and Analysis

 The Need for Modeling

A - Real Structure cannot be Analyzed:

It can only be “Load Tested” to determine
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

response

B - We can only analyze a

“Model” of a Structure

C - We therefore need tools to Model the

Structure and to Analyze the Model
 Finite Element Method and FEA

• Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

“A discretized solution to a continuum
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

problem using FEM”

• Finite Element Method (FEM)

“A numerical procedure for solving (partial)
differential equations associated with field
problems, with an accuracy acceptable to
engineers”
 Integrated Analysis Solution

Mass-Acceleration Stiffness-Displacement External Force

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Mu&& + Cu& + Ku + FNL = F

Damping-Velocity
Nonlinearity

Mu&& + Cu& + Ku

Specialized for every required analysis case

 Basic Analysis Types

Excitation Structure Response Basic Analysis Type

Static Elastic Linear Linear-Elastic-Static Analysis

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Static Elastic Nonlinear Nonlinear-Elastic-Static Analysis

Static Inelastic Linear Linear-Inelastic-Static Analysis

Static Inelastic Nonlinear Nonlinear-Inelastic-Static Analysis

Dynamic Elastic Linear Linear-Elastic-Dynamic Analysis

Dynamic Elastic Nonlinear Nonlinear-Elastic-Dynamic Analysis

Dynamic Inelastic Linear Linear-Inelastic-Dynamic Analysis

Dynamic Inelastic Nonlinear Nonlinear-Inelastic-Dynamic Analysis

 Special Other Analysis Types

• Non-linear Analysis
– P-Delta Analysis
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Buckling Analysis
– Static Pushover Analysis
– Sequential Construction Analysis
– Fast Non-Linear Analysis (FNA)
– Large Displacement Analysis
– Sequential construction/ staged analysis

• Dynamic Analysis
– Free Vibration and Modal Analysis
– Response Spectrum Analysis
– Steady State Dynamic Analysis
– Forced vibration
 Developments in FE Modeling

• Level-1
– Mostly developed and in use before the 1980s
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– The Nodes are defined first by coordinates and then

Elements are defined that connect the nodes
• Level-2
– Starting somewhere in the 1980s and 1990s
– The Elements are defined directly, either numerically or
graphically and the Nodes are created automatically
• Level-3
– Current development stage
– The structure is represented by generic Objects and the
elements and Nodes are created automatically
 Current Modeling Trend : Level-3

• In several software, the Graphic Objects

representing the Structural Members are
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

automatically divided into Finite Elements for

analysis
• This involves
– Object-based Modeling
– Auto Meshing
– Auto Load Computation
– Auto Load Transfer
– Converting FE results to Object results
 Basic Modeling Techniques

• Techniques to model Geometry

– Direct physical representation of bridge
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

components and parts by appropriate elements

– Example: Frame Element, Shell Element
• Techniques to model Behavior
– In-direct ways to model parts, components or
behavior, otherwise too difficult or undesirable to
model by geometry
– Example: Restraint, Spring
 Developments in Modeling
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling Techniques - Behavior

 Basic Modeling Techniques - Behavior

• Constraints
• Restraints
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Springs
• Nonlinear Links
• Nonlinear Hinges
• Element End Conditions
• Dummy elements
 Restraints - Supports

• Basic Free, Pin, Roller

• General Spring
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Global and skewed

springs
• Coupled 6x6 user-defined
springs SAP2000
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Special Edge Constraints

SAP2000
 Constraints – Direct Links

• A constraint consists of a set of two or more

constrained joints whose displacement is
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

linked
• Rigid-body behavior
– Rigid Body: fully rigid for all displacements
– Rigid Diaphragm: rigid for membrane behavior
– Rigid Plate: rigid for plate bending in a plane
– Rigid Rod: rigid for extension along an axis
– Rigid Beam: rigid for beam bending on an axis
• Equal-displacement behavior
• Symmetry and anti-symmetry conditions
 End Releases

• Easily model non-fixed

connections by general
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

“End-Release”
– Axial
– Shear
– Torsion
– Moment

SAP2000
 Rigid End Offsets

• Rigid End connections to

model large joints
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Automated end offset

evaluation and
assignment

SAP2000
 Non-Linear Links

• Special elements to
capture the Non-Linear
behavior
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Multi-Linear Elastic
– Multi-Linear Plastic
– Damper
– Gap
– Hook
– Contact
– Rubber Isolators
– Friction Isolators

SAP2000
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Nonliner Links
SAP2000
 Link/Support Element

• Friction Isolator
– Biaxial friction-pendulum
isolator that has coupled
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

friction
– properties for the two
shear deformation, post-
slip stiffness
– in the shear direction due
to the pendulum radii of
the
– slipping surfaces, gap
behavior in the axial
direction, and
– linear effective-stiffness
properties for the three
moment deformations
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Use of Nonlinear Links

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling of Bridge Components

 Overall Bridge Component Hierarchy

Typical Bridge
Super Deck
Deck Slab
Slab and
and Girders
Girders
Super
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Deck
Deck Diaphragms
Diaphragms
Structure
Structure Approach
Approach Slab
Slab

Bearings
Bearings
Pier
Pier Bents
Bents and
and Transom
Transom (Cross
(Cross Beam)
Beam)
Abutments
Abutments Pier,
Pier, Pylon
Pylon
Sub
Sub Wing
Wing Wall
Wall
Structure
Structure
(Pile
(Pile Cap)
Cap)
Foundations
Foundations (Piles,
(Piles, Caissons)
Caissons)
(Footing)
(Footing)

Barriers,
Barriers, Side
Side Walk
Walk
Ancillary
Ancillary Systems
Systems Expansion
Expansion Joints
Joints
Lighting,
Lighting, Draining
Draining
 Modeling of Bridge Components
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling of Deck
 Basic Deck Types

• Simple RC Slab
• RC Slab and RC Beams
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• RC Slab and Pre-cast, Prestressed Girder

• T Girder, I Girder, Box Girder
• Composite Deck
• RC Slab and Steel Beam
• RC Slab and Plate Girders
• Steel Orthotropic Deck
• Concrete Box Girders
• Steel Box Girders
 Modeling Issues in Bridge Deck

• The eccentricity between the deck slab with the flange

and the girder cross sectional centroid
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• The effective width of the slab carrying the wheel

loads
• The effects of deck skew, and non-rectangular slab
• The effect of the diaphragm connection with girder
• The eccentricity of the girder cross sectional centroid
from the bearing top level
• The shear connection between the slab and girder
• The stiffness of the portion from top of girder’s top
flange to the slab mid plane
 Modeling Issues in Bridge Deck

• The torsional stiffness of the slab

• The effect of the deck span to deck width ratio
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• The shallow arching effect of the slab between

the girders
• The orthotropic nature of the slab stiffness
due to different reinforcement ratio in
longitudinal and transverse direction
• The effect of slab cracking, the effect of the
longitudinal compressive force in the slab on
its flexural behavior
• The effects of the shear lag of the longitudinal
compressive stress etc.
 Modeling of the Bridge Deck

• Beam Model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Grid Model

• Grid-Plate Model

• Thin Wall model

• Plate-Shell Model

• Solid Model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Deck Modeling Options

 Beam Model

• Simple Beam Model

– Only the CL of the Deck is modeled by
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Equivalent beam elements

• Full Beam Model

– Every bridge component is modeled by beam
elements
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Beam Model
 Grid Model

• In the model the deck is

represented as a grillage
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

made from beam

elements.

• Girders, Slab,
Diaphragm etc are all
converted to equivalent
beams

• This is generally for out-

of plane analysis for
gravity and traffic loads
 Grid Model

• Most suitable for I beam or T beam deck with

diaphragms
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Suitable for transverse distribution of traffic load

• Generally made for one or two spans for local
analysis
• Slab can be represented by equivalent beam strips
• Can be in 2D or in 3D
• Can be combined with the full Beam Model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
 Beam-Plate Model

• Beam Plate model is the

combination of beam and
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

plate elements in which

girders and diaphragms are
modeled with the beam
element and the slab is
modeled with the plate
element.

• The use of the plate

element improves the
modeling of slab behavior
in comparison with Grid
Model
 Beam-Plate Model

• Special consideration are needed to account

for difference in the center line of the girders
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

and the plate (slab).

• The stiffness matrix of the girders and

diaphragms are modified with the sub-
structure method.

• An offset connection needs to be specified

between beam and plates
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Beam-Plate Model
+h
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Beam-Plate Model

The problem of the offset Connection needs special handling

• Use of Rigid Offsets

• Special Elements in the program
 Shell Model

• In plate-shell model, all

girders, diaphragms,
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

slabs etc. are modeled

with the plate elements

• This model suitable for

detailed analysis in
transverse as well as in
longitudinal direction
 Plate - Shell Model

• Can handle bridges of arbitrary cross-section and

geometry
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Specially suitable for deck slab analysis, highly

skew & curved bridges
• Needs a very large number of elements
• Applying moving loads may be difficult
• Difficult to apply Prestress load
• Difficult to interpret results for design

Full shell model for

girder bridge
 Shell Model

• Can handle bridges of arbitrary cross-section

and geometry
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Specially suitable for deck slab analysis,

highly skew and curved bridges
• Needs a very large number of elements
• Applying moving loads may be difficult
• Difficult to apply Prestress load
• Difficult to interpret results for design
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Beam Model VS Shell Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Shell Model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Shell Model of Box Girder Bridge

Horizontal curvature & variable

box girder depth
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling of Loads
Modeling of Bridge s
 Bride Load Classification

• Externally Applied , Internally Applied

• Primary, Secondary, Extraordinary
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Static, Dynamic
• Permanent, Transient
• Deterministic, Non-Deterministic
• Environmental, Man-made
• Short term, Long Term
 Loads on Bridge Deck

• Gravity Loads
• Traffic and Highway Loads
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Pre-stressing Loads
• Temperature Loads
• Shrinkage and Creep
• Wind Load
• Seismic Load
 Modeling Loads

• For Level-1 FE models where elemenst are

defined directly, the loads may be applied or
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

defined for the elements

• For Level-3, Object based FE models, loads

may be defined independently of the Finite
elements using geometric representation

• Most loads can be computed/ applied from

geometry and mass distribution automatically
 Geometric Modeling of Loads

P
• Point Load
• Line Load
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

(X,Z)
Y

X Z • Area Load
• Volume Load

W1
W
W2 (X1,Z1 (X1,Z1) (X3,Z3)
)
Y Y

Z (X2,Z2 (X2,Z2)
X X (X4,Z4)
) Z
 Gravity Loads

• These are the vertical loads due to the gravity.

It consists of the dead weight of the
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

structures. These loads can be applied as the

element loads or as nodal loads.

– For Beam Model applied as UDL over the length

– For Shell Model applied as UDL over the area
– Special loads applied as Point Loads
– Applied as Lumped Mass
 Traffic and Highway Loads

• Moving load handled as a special problem

– Vehicles
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Vehicle Classes
– Traffic Lanes 10’0”

– Additional Point Loads 2’0”8’0”2’0”

14’0” V
0.1W 0.4W 0.4W

0.1W 0.4W 0.4W

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

The Truck Load

 Temperature Loads

• Both local temperature variation across

section and global changes may need to be
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

considered
• In case of Beam model
– The temperature loads to any member can be
applied as a form of fixed end moment caused by
the temperature changes.

• For the cases of Thin-wall and Plate model

– The temperature loads can be applied as the initial
strains caused by the temperature changes to
each element.
 Shrinkage and Creep

• The effect of Shrinkage and Creep of concrete

can also be applied as the load by converting
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

the expected creep and shrinkage strain in to

an equivalent temperature strain.
• Many programs now handle creep, shrinkage
and relaxation etc. directly and internally
convert them to loads
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Animation: Truck On Spine Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Animation: Truck On Shell, Sub Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Several Trucks – Opposite Lanes

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Freeway: Cars and Trucks

 Modeling Loads in Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Handling Prestress Cables

 Conventional Approach

• Bridge modeled and analyzed for DL, LL and other

loads
Actions
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Section stresses checked for combined effect of

actions and pre-stress

• Will not work well for continuous structures or where

secondary effects due to prestressing are significant
Stresses due + Stresses due
- to Prestressing = Final Stresses
to Actions
 Integrated Approach

• Prestressing is considered as just another load and

the final stresses are obtained directly from the final
actions
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Stresses due to actions
Final Stresses

• Will work in every case.
• Drawback:
– Prestress has to be estimated right from the start, requires
iteration
• A combination of these two approaches is often
suitable
 Why to use Integrated Approach?

• The prestress forces are applied to the full

structural model the secondary effects are
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

automatically included
• Load Balancing analysis is not required
• Effect of prestressing on the entire structure
is evaluated including the continuity,
stiffness, shortening, shear lag, eccentricities,
etc.
• Most software have the ability to compute
stresses and stress profiles for computed
actions so no separate stress calculations are
needed
 Why to use Integrated Approach?

• Effects of sequential construction, staged

prestressing, etc. can be carried out more
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

comprehensively
• Prestressed structures are more suitable and
relevant for linear-elastic analysis mostly
used by general FEM Software
• The interaction of axial load, moment and
prestress load can be considered more
consistently
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Anchor Block Analysis

 Component Design and Detailing

• The component or member design and

detailing heavily depends on the type of
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

material as well as the design codes being

used
• The development in design of steel members
is fairly mature and several software carryout
the design extensively
• The aspects sometimes not considered may
be fatigue, local buckling, locked in stress,
certain type of stability issues etc.
 Component Design and Detailing

• The design of reinforced concrete, pre-stressed

concrete and composite materials is often not fully
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

integrated with the analysis programs

• Many designers find it more appropriate to carry out
the design separately either using specialized
software or programs developed in-house following
local and organizational standards and practices.
• Although, there are a large number of software for
isolated member design, most of these are for
columns, beams, slabs, footings and walls in
residential, industrial and multistory buildings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pier Section Design

 Session-2
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

1:00 – 3:00

Modeling of Bridge Piers and Foundations

Modeling of Joints and Bearings
Modeling of Abutments
Construction Stage Analysis
 Modeling of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Handling Joints, Bearings

 Modeling Elastomeric Bearings

F
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Elastomeric Bearing
Shear Modulus G

V1 ? V2 ?

The entire lateral force transfer and distribution

between piers and abutments depends on proper
modeling of Bearings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Location of Bearings - All Shell Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Location of Bearings : Beam-Shell

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Bearings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Basic Elastomeric Bearing

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Guided and Roller

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Hinges
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pot Bearings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pot Bearings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Elastomeric Pads
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Expansion Joints
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Z
X

Bearing Example - 1
How to Model this?
 Modeling of Joints and Bearings

• In finite element models, by default all element

connected to a node share the Nodal Degree
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

of Freedom (DOF)
• This is suitable for fully connected structural
members
• At Joints, full connection may not be available
or desired
• We can either “release” or “constrain” the
DOF to change this default behavior and to
model joints
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

• Effectively Modeling of Support conditions at

bearing and expansion joints requires careful
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

consideration of the continuity of each

translation and rotational components of
displacement.
• Joints may behave linearly or non linearly
• Linear Joints
– Roller, Pin
– Elastomeric Pads
• Nonlinear Joints
– Expansion Joint, Gap
– Restraining Block, Gap or Hook
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

• Degrees-of-freedom representing
discontinuous components must be
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

disconnected

• Stiffness/ flexibility of bearing pads and other

connections should be modeled

• The nonlinearities due to stiffness, gaps etc

must be considered
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

• Effectively Modeling of Support conditions at

bearing and expansion joints requires careful
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

consideration of the continuity of each

translation and rotational components of
displacement.
• Joints may behave linearly or non linearly
• Linear Joints
– Roller, Pin
– Elastomeric Pads
• Nonlinear Joints
– Expansion Joint, Gap
– Restraining Block, Gap or Hook
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

• Method –1: Using Constraints

– Use more than one node at the same location to
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

connects individual elements which automatically

disconnects all degrees-of-freedom between the
elements

– Constraining together the connected degrees-of-

freedom using equal or local constraints
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

• Method-2: Using Releases

– Attaching several elements to a common joint
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

which automatically connects all degrees-of-

freedom between the elements

– Using Frame element end release to free the

unconnected degrees-of-freedom
 Bearings and Expansion Joints

• Method-3: Using Springs

– Specially useful for modeling of Elastomeric
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

bearings, semi-rigid connections, elastic

connections and passive resistance of soil within
the elastic range

– The elements are connected to each other by

spring elements or equivalent spring elements in
appropriate DOF
 Bearings and Expansion Joints

• Method-4: Using Nonlinear Links

– Specially useful for modeling of complex
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

connections that have nonlinear properties such as

gaps, nonlinear sprints, restraining blocks etc.

– The elements are connected to each other by NL

Link elements in appropriate DOF

– This the most comprehensive and flexible way of

way to model joints and bearings
 Bearing and Expansion Joints

2 5 6 3
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

4 Joints 4,5,6:
Same Coordinates
Equal Y-Translation
Equal Z-Translation
Equal X-Rotation
Joints 4,6:
1
Equal X-displacement

Method (1)- Use of Separate Joints at Common Location

 Bearing and Expansion Joints

Moment release
2 4 3
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Moment & Axial Force

release Moment release

Method (2)- Use of Common Joints and Elements

End Releases
 Using Springs/Links

• Use one spring for each DOF

• Stiffness value is specified to
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

link Force and Displacement

• Use one Link for each DOF

• May have a linear part (similar
to spring) and a nonlinear part
represented by a relationship
between Force and
Displacement
 In-Span Expansion Joint

Girder Pier Head or Girder Z

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Joint
Pier
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Nonlinear Links For Bearings

 Modeling of Bridge Components
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Piers and Bents

 Pier and Pier Bent Types

• Single Pier
– Solid concrete sections and Hollow section
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Rectangular, Polygonal, Circular

– Prismatic and Flared
– Pier head and Pier Cross Beam Frame
– Hollow steel section
• Multiple Pier Bent
– Piles extended as Pier
– Multiple Piers on Pile cap
• Special Frames
– Multilevel Decks
– Off-center decks and foundations
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Piers and Bearings

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Piers and Bearings

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pier Types
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Piers Sections
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Piers -Examples

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Piers -Examples

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling of Bridge Pier

Beam Model Shell Model Solid Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Modeling Piers
 Shell Model of Bridge Pier

Modeling of solid &

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

hollow piers with shell

elements
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Solid element Model for bridge Pier

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Solid Model for Pier and Pier Head

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pier Head Analysis

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Pier with Spread Pier Head

Solid element
model

Extraction of Strut and Tie Model from 3D Solid Mesh Analysis

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Results Output from Program

Principal Tensile Principal Compressive Strut & Tie Layout

Stress Contours Stress Contours

Extraction of Strut and Tie Model from 3D Solid Mesh Analysis

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Pier with Curved Pier Head

Solid element
model

Extraction of Strut and Tie Model from 3D Solid Mesh Analysis

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Results Output from Program

Principal Tensile Principal Compressive Strut & Tie Layout from

Stress Contours Stress Contours Program Output

Extraction of Strut and Tie Model from 3D Solid Mesh Analysis

 Modeling of Bridge Components
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Foundations
 Modeling of Supports

• Actual Supports
– Isolated Footings
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Combined Footings
– Rafts
– Pile Cap
– Special Supports
– Pile Piers
– Caissons
 Modeling of Supports in 2D

Support Models
Fixed
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

LLL

Pin
LLF

Roller

FLF LFF LFL

Elastic
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Using Springs to Model Footings

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling Options

Modeling of Footings
Beam Plate Brick

Constraint
Yes Yes Yes
Soil

Spring Yes Yes Yes

Brick No Yes Yes

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling Soil as Springs

Footing as Plate Footing as Brick

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling Soil as Brick

Footing as Plate
Footing as Brick
 Raft as Plate, Soil as Brick

• Vertical Deflection
Patterns
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges
 Inclined Supports

• 1st Method:
– Use an additional
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

member at the support by

Additional Inclined making it rigid and the
rigid member
member forces in this
member will represent the
reactions in the Inclined
Support
• 2st Method:
– Use Local Coordinate
System of the Node to
Rotate the DOF.
Available in Some
Software (SAP2000)
 Modeling of Laterally Loaded Pile
P
M Pile cap
H H
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

hf Water level

Fixed soil level

Soil strata in layers

Actual Pile Soil Represented by

Embedded in Soil Lateral Springs
 • Modeling
Deck,
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bearings,
Piers,
Footings,
Piles
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling Options for Foundations

• Shell Elements for foundation

• Joint springs for soil
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling of Laterally Loaded Pile

• Piles with Frame Elements

• Soils by Lateral Springs
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Modeling of Caissons

Solid elements
to model soil
around a
Caisson with Shell Elements caisson
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges Pilecap Modeling

Extraction of Strut and Tie Model from 3D Solid Mesh Analysis

 Strut and Tie Approach

a=1.6 a=1.6

P=10,000 kN
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

d=1.4

d=1.4 h=1.6 d=1.4 h=1.6

α
α
T β T

L=2.5 L=2.5
1

a) Simple "Strut & Tie" Model c) Modified Truss Model B

α = tan-1 d/0.5L
α = tan-1 d/0.5(L-d1)
α = 48 deg α = 68.5 deg
T = 0.5P/tanα T = 0.5P/tanα
T = 1970 kN
T = 4502 kN
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Space Truss Model - Example

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Strut & Tie Model for Pile Cap

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Abutments
Modeling of Bridge Components
 Modeling Issues

• How can the active and passive soil pressure be

modeled simultaneously
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• How can the soil “stiffness” be included when

subjected to passive loading
• How can the soil separation be included when deck
moves away from the abutment
• How can the behavior of restraining blocks for seismic
movement be included
• How can the elastomeric bearings be included
• How can the damping effect be considered
• What about soil dynamic, non-linear and liquefaction
effects
 Modeling Options

• A – Consider as support node

• B - Consider and as a linear spring
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• C - Consider as a node and a linear link

• D – Consider as a node and a non-linear link
• E – Consider as a node, non-linear link and a
damper
• F – Model as a combination of plate elements,
links, dampers and springs
• G – Model as a combination of plate elements,
links, dampers and solid elements
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

A Brick/ Solid Model

 Modeling Options

• A- As Frame Nodal Support

– Consider either as pin or a roller
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– If both are considered as roller, then all longitudinal

loads should be resisted by the piers
– If roller-pin combination is considered then amount
of longitudinal load transferred to pin-end will
depend on the stiffness of piers, length of deck,
joint between the pier and the deck
– May be appropriate for preliminary analysis,
especially when using frame model
– None of the stiffness, movement effects can be
considered
 Modeling Options

• B – As Frame Spring Support

– The sprint support can be use to represent the
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

combined stiffness of the bearing, the abutment

and the passive resistance of the soil
– The spring stiffness can be computed based on the
shear modulus of the bearings, lateral modulus of
sub-grade reaction of soil and the contact area
• C – As Frame Support Node and Linear Link
– The linear link can be used instead of spring
support to represent the combined (lumped)
stiffness of all elements involved
 Modeling Options

• D – As Frame Support Node and a Non-linear link

– The non-linear link can model the linear stiffness as spring,
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

as well as capture non-linear behavior, such as soil

separation, expansion joint, restraining block, soil liquefaction
etc.
• E – As Frame Support Node, Non-linear Link and
Damper
– Can model all of the behavior in D, in addition the combined
effect of modal and material damping
– This option is most comprehensive and can be used
efficiently in frame models
• Option C, D, E require manual determination of
stiffness, nonlinear and damping properties for
springs, links and dampers
 Modeling Options

• F – As Plate Elements, Links, Dampers and Springs

– The abutment wall is modeled with plate elements
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– The soil is represented as springs

– The connection with the deck is modeled by links and
dampers

• G As Plate Elements, Links, Dampers and Solids

– The abutment wall is modeled with plate elements
– The soil is modeled by solid elements
– The connection with the deck is modeled by links and
dampers
– The connection between soil and wall may be further
modeled by non-linear links
 Practical Modeling Considerations

• Using the right software that supports the

modeling option being selected
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• The skill in using the software properly

• Obtaining, determining or computing the
properties and parameters required for the
model being considered
• For sophisticated models, such as D-G, the
ability to carry out parametric and sensitivity
analysis to ensure proper use of properties
and program options
 Session-3
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

3:15 – 4:00

Practical Modeling, Analysis and Design of Deck

System, Girders, Piers and Foundations using
SAP2000
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Some Software and Tools

 Features and Comparison of Software

SAM

RM2006
Bridge
Ansys\Civil FEM
LUSAS-Bridge

Leap-Bridge

ADAPT-ABI

Midas-WinBDS

BRIGADE

QConBridge
SAP2000-Bridge
SOFTWARE FEATURES
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Layout •
Preliminary
•
Design
Geometric
• • • • • • • • • •
Design
Arch Bridge • • • • • • • • • •
Segmental Bridge • • • • • • • •
Slab Deck Bridge • • • • • • • • • •
Bridge Model Box Girder Bridge • • • • • • • •
Cable Stayed Bridge • • • • • • • •
Suspension Bridge • • • • • • •
Integral Bridge • • • •
 Features and Comparison of Software

Bridge
Ansys\Civil FEM

Leap-Bridge

ADAPT-ABI

SAM

Midas-WinBDS
LUSAS-Bridge

BRIGADE

RM2006

QConBridge
SAP2000-Bridge
SOFTWARE FEATURES
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Static • • • • • • • • • •
Dynamic • • • • • •
Structural Heat Transfer • •
Analysis Construction Sequence • • • • • • • •
Soil-structure
• •
Interaction
Moving Load • • • • • • • • •
Loads Prestressing • • • • • • • •
Creep/Shrinkage • • • • • • •
 Features and Comparison of Software

Bridge
Ansys\Civil FEM
LUSAS-Bridge

Leap-Bridge

ADAPT-ABI

SAM

Midas-WinBDS

BRIGADE

RM2006

QConBridge
Bridge
SAP2000-
SOFTWARE FEATURES
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Deck elements • • • • • • • • •

Abutments • • • • • • • •
Component
Design
Piers and Columns • • • • • • • •

Foundations • • • • • • • •
 Features and Comparison of Software

SAM

Midas-WinBDS
Bridge
Ansys\Civil FEM
LUSAS-Bridge

Leap-Bridge

ADAPT-ABI

BRIGADE

RM2006

QConBridge
SAP2000-Bridge
SOFTWARE FEATURES
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

AASHTO Standard • • • • • • • • •
BS-5440-2 • • •
Design Code LFD & LRFD
• • • • • •
Standard
CFD Code •
Detailing
Drafting • • • •
Documentation • • • • • •
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

SAP2000
Bridge Module
 SAP2000

• General purpose structural analysis and

design software
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Linear, Non-linear, Static, Dynamic…

• Hinge, Frame, Plate, Membrane, Shell, Solid
• Special modules
– Offshore structures
– Bridges
– Soil-structure interaction
 SAP2000 – Bridge

• Basic Bridge related functions

– Moving Loads: Lanes, Vehicles..
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Sequential Construction
• Special CALTRANS bridge modeler
– Step-by-step Modeler
• The full Object Based Bridge Modeler
– Step-by-step Modeler
– General Parametric Modeler
 SAP2000-Object Based Bridge Modeler

• Useful for staring any

bridge model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Applicable to most
typical and Category-1
bridge projects
• Especially useful for
preliminary and
comparative studies of
various options
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Elevation

Define Layout Line

Plan
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Horizontal Layout
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Horizontal Layout – Quick Options

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Vertical Layout – Quick Options

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Parametric Deck Sections

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Parametric Deck Section

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Editable Deck Section

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Abutment Modeling
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pier Bents
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Pier Bent - Columns

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Diaphragm Model
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Hinge/Joint Modeling
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Parametric Variations
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Bridge Objects
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Super Elevation
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Prestressing Tendons
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Prestressing Tendons – Quick Options

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Prestressing Tendons - Parabolic

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Prestressing Losses
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Traffic Loads – Lanes and Vehicles

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Vehicle Data – Standard and General

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Load Cases
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Analysis Cases
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Link Parametric Model to FE Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

The Spine Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

The Shell Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

The Solid Model

Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Future Developments and

Directions
 Future Developments and Directions

• More closely integrated design process taking

holistic view
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• Incorporation of Monitoring information into

models and projective simulations
• Greater management and detailing support
• Mutiscale, multidimensional design
environments
 Integrated Design Approach

• The integrated structural design combines

various design steps into single continuous
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

and connected process, using a common

database or information bus
• This approach has been used successfully by
several software in design of tall buildings
• However application of fully integrated design
of bridges has not been as successful or
popular yet due to significant differences in
various categories
 Integrated Design Approach

• There has been partial integration of some of

the steps for specific bridge types
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

• For example there has been integration of

geometric design, development of structural
model, and analysis
• There have also been attempts at integration
of Superstructure analysis and sub-structure
analysis and of integration of analysis and
selected component design
 Future Approach

• A new approach is proposed that is based on

handling the bridge design problem using
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

hierarchal multi-scale models, all connected

through open database standards using XML
• This approach is similar to the Multi-scale
Modeling or human body in concept
• This will build upon the component based
software development in structural
engineering
 Multi-scale Design Approach

• Top level information model containing

– the geographical
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– Topographical
– environmental
– geological and geotechnical and
– service lines and related aspects that exist before the
design and construction of the bridge
• The second level information model contains
– the proposed functional
– geometric design of the bridge
– including the overall alignment, planned services,
roadway modifications etc
 Multi-scale Design Approach

• The third level information model deals

– the bridge structure in terms of topological
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

– objects such as deck, piers, footings, abutments,

pylons etc
• The next level contains
– the structural model generated from the larger
topological objects in terms of more well defined
– local structural objects such as deck slab, girders,
diaphragms, bearings, transoms, piers, footings,
piles etc
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Hierarchal Multi-scale
Design Approach for
Bridge Design
 Conclusions

• The software application in all aspects of

Bridge Engineering are expected to grow
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

significantly in future, specially the

introduction of parametric modeling,
integrated design, multi-scale modeling and
greater specialization of the finite element
modeling for the bridge related problems,
integration with monitoring systems and
management systems
 Conclusions

• Bridge design is also an art and the intuitive

and creative abilities of the bridge designers
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

will always and should always take

precedence over the computational and
automated tools
Modeling Analysis and Design of Bridges

Thank You