Abstract
In a “classical” vertical planar arch bridge subjected only to in-plane loads, its funicular geometry (which is the geometry that results in an equilibrium state free from bending stresses, i.e., simply under axial forces) is contained within a vertical plane. In the so-called “spatial arch bridges,” their structural behavior extends from the essentially vertical in-plane behavior of the “classical” arch bridges to a three-dimensional behavior. The paper presents how the Force Density Method, which is a form-finding method originally developed for cable meshes, can be simplified to easily obtain three-dimensional funicular arches. The formulation and flow chart of the method is presented and discussed in detail within this paper. Additionally, some case studies illustrate its scope. This paper intends to be useful at the conceptual stage of bridge design when the three-dimensional geometry for the spatial arch bridge typology is considered either because of functional requirements, structural efficiency, or for aesthetical purposes.
Highlights
This paper intends to be useful at the conceptual stage of bridge design when the three-dimensional geometry for the spatial arch bridge typology is considered either because of functional requirements, structural efficiency, or for aesthetical purposes
The method will be iterative equilibrium are uncoupled in the x-zasplanes, the location of arch, the nodes i, yaxial i, zi) of the threebecause the loads that act upon thex-y archand such the self-weight of the gA, or(x the forces at the dimensional anti-funicular geometry can be obtained by solving two independent systems hangers, Ti, depend on the geometry of the arch, which are the solutions for successively which each one defines a form contained within a coordinate plane
A very important feature of the Force Density Method (FDM)
Summary
Received: 25 October 2018; Accepted: 3 December 2018; Published: 10 December 2018. Featured Application: The paper presents a simplified method with potential application to find the funicular form either at the conceptual design or final stage of design of arch bridges.
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