Bridge Construction Method Research Articles

The Inclusion-Based LINMAP Method for Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis Within an Interval-Valued Atanassov's Intuitionistic Fuzzy Environment

The purpose of this paper is to develop an inclusion-based LINMAP (i.e., Linear Programming Technique for Multidimensional Analysis of Preference) method for multiple criteria decision analysis that is based on interval-valued Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Using the inclusion comparison possibility in the interval-valued Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy context, an inclusion-based index of interval-valued Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy numbers is proposed that considers positive and negative ideals. An inclusion-based consistency index and an inclusion-based inconsistency index to measure the concordance and discordance, respectively, between paired comparison judgments are suggested. An inclusion-based LINMAP model is constructed using a linear programming technique to determine the optimal criterion weights and obtain the corresponding comprehensive inclusion-based index for each alternative. Then, the priority order of the alternatives can be acquired according to the comprehensive inclusion-based indices. The feasibility of the proposed method is illustrated using a practical problem that relates to the selection of bridge construction methods. A comparative analysis of other relevant decision-making methods is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the developed methodology.

Behaviour of steel–precast composite girders with through-bolt shear connectors under static loading

Accelerated bridge construction methods are being increasingly used to construct new bridges and replace existing ones. For the accelerated construction of steel–precast concrete composite bridges, a suitable shear connection detail is needed to develop composite action between the steel girders and the precast concrete deck panels. In this paper, a recent study is presented on the use of through-bolts to make this shear connection. Specifically, an experimental study is summarized, wherein static push tests have been performed on through-bolt connections with several parameters investigated including the bolt diameter, bolt pretension, and steel–concrete contact surface properties. While ultimate shear loads are achieved with through-bolts similar to those seen for conventional shear studs, the initial slip load is generally seen to be much lower than the ultimate load. A mechanistic model, capable of predicting the through-bolt connector ultimate capacity, is proposed and shown to give reliable predictions of the test results. Lastly, a finite element (FE) analysis study is presented, wherein the load–slip behaviour obtained from the push tests is incorporated in a model of a full-scale bridge girder and the effect of varying the bolt diameter and spacing on the girder behaviour is investigated.

Multiple criteria decision analysis using a likelihood-based outranking method based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets

The purpose of this paper is to develop a likelihood-based outranking method for handling multiple criteria decision analysis problems based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Using the concept of likelihood of the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy preference relations, this paper determines certain generalized criteria and the corresponding likelihood-based preference functions. Based on some useful concepts of comprehensive preference indices, concordance indices, counter-likelihood-based preference functions, and discordance indices, this paper conducts a concordance–discordance analysis with concordance and discordance outranking relationships to determine a global Boolean matrix and acquire partial ranking orders of the alternatives. Alternatively, this paper determines complete ranking orders of the alternatives using the concepts of net concordance indices, net discordance indices, and mean outranking values. The feasibility and applicability of the proposed method are illustrated with a practical multiple criteria decision-making application concerning the selection of a suitable bridge construction method. Finally, comparative discussions with different decision-making methods are conducted to verify the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method in aiding decision making.

ANP Model for Evaluation of False-work Systems for Cast-in-place Cantilever Bridges

The terrain of Taiwan is characterized by large areas of mountains, while lands in urban areas have become increasingly difficult to acquire for developing infrastructures. To reduce environmental impacts and to improve traffic conditions, highway projects have adopted more and more bridges over the years and many advanced bridge construction methods have been introduced. In terms of construction of bridge superstructures, the cast-in-place cantilever method has seen wider use with many successful examples. This study investigated the false-work systems that may be selected for use in implementing the cast-in-place cantilever method in Taiwan, with the objective of developing a model for evaluating possible options. Based on a review of related researches, an evaluation framework for the false-work systems has been proposed first, which consists of six factors: system controllability, structural stability, initial cost, operating cost, segment cycle time, and closing segment construction time that are categorized into three aspects: reliability, cost, and speed. Because of the interdependencies among the factors, the model uses the analytic network process (ANP) to produce the weights of the factors and the ratings of the options in given project conditions. An illustrative example is provided, in which three false-work systems considered for a hypothetical box-girder bridge project are evaluated. The rankings of the options obtained for the example from best to worst were triangular truss, diamond truss, and suspension truss. Practitioners may use the model as a decision aid in evaluating and selecting false-work systems for the cast-in-place cantilever method for construction of bridge superstructures.

The extended linear assignment method for multiple criteria decision analysis based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets

The theory of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets is useful and beneficial for handling uncertainty and imprecision in multiple criteria decision analysis. In addition, the theory allows for convenient quantification of the equivocal nature of human subjective assessments. In this paper, by extending the traditional linear assignment method, we propose a useful method for solving multiple criteria evaluation problems in the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy context. A ranking procedure consisting of score functions, accuracy functions, membership uncertainty indices, and hesitation uncertainty indices is presented to determine a criterion-wise preference of the alternatives. An extended linear assignment model is then constructed using a modified weighted-rank frequency matrix to determine the priority order of various alternatives. The feasibility and applicability of the proposed method are illustrated with a multiple criteria decision-making problem involving the selection of a bridge construction method. Additionally, a comparative analysis with other methods, including the approach with weighted aggregation operators, the closeness coefficient-based method, and the auxiliary nonlinear programming models, has been conducted for solving the investment company selection problem to validate the effectiveness of the extended linear assignment method.

Interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy QUALIFLEX method with a likelihood-based comparison approach for multiple criteria decision analysis

QUALIFLEX (i.e., QUALItative FLEXible multiple criteria method) is a useful outranking method used for multiple criteria decision analysis. This paper uses the main structure of QUALIFLEX to develop an interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy QUALIFLEX outranking method with a likelihood-based comparison approach for handling multiple criteria decision-making problems within a decision environment of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets. We propose the concept of using the likelihood of fuzzy preference relations to compare interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy numbers. To address diversiform preference types, we represent the decision-maker’s various forms of preference structures and assess the criterion weights using incomplete information. Using a criterion-wise preference of alternatives via comparison of the likelihoods, we develop a new QUALIFLEX-based model to measure the level of concordance of the complete preference order for managing multiple criteria decisions. The feasibility and applicability of the proposed methods are illustrated using a practical example, namely, the selection of a suitable bridge construction method. A comparative analysis with other relevant methods is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

Research on Mesh Generation Based on B-Rep Model for Virtual Rendering

To meet with the requirement in virtual rendering, an OpenFlight mesh generation method based on B-Rep model is proposed. The bridge construction method, which is flexible for arbitrary multi-loop regions, are employed on model planes. In order to get the closed parametric region for the curved surface, boolean trimming operations between surface grids and boundary poly-lines are implemented efficiently. Due to the node adjustment method, the mesh nodes on the public border are strictly matched, and no cracks are created on the joint of model boundaries. Experiments show that the proposed algorithm is satisfying in controlling the meshing count of the virtual objects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.11591/telkomnika.v10i7.1454

NONLINEAR ASSIGNMENT-BASED METHODS FOR INTERVAL-VALUED INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION ANALYSIS WITH INCOMPLETE PREFERENCE INFORMATION

In the context of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets, this paper develops nonlinear assignment-based methods to manage imprecise and uncertain subjective ratings under incomplete preference structures and thereby determines the optimal ranking order of the alternatives for multiple criteria decision analysis. By comparing each interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy number's score function, accuracy function, membership uncertainty index, and hesitation uncertainty index, a ranking procedure is employed to identify criterion-wise preference of alternatives. Based on the criterion-wise rankings and a set of known but incomplete information about criterion weights, a nonlinear assignment model is constructed to estimate criterion weights and to order the priority of various alternatives. Considering multiple criteria evaluation problems with preference conflict about criterion importance, an integrated nonlinear programming model is further established with regard to incomplete and inconsistent weight information. These proposed nonlinear assignment-based methods can obtain an aggregate ranking that effectively combines the relative performance of each alternative in each criterion. In addition, this overall ranking most closely agrees with the criterion-wise rankings. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method is illustrated by a practical example of selecting a suitable bridge construction method.

Development of a new bridge construction method using suspension structures

AbstractA unique suspension method developed over a period of more than 10 years produces a rational structure in the form of a single‐span composite truss bridge. For this structure, the steel truss and concrete deck are constructed on the spanning cables. During construction the horizontal forces of these cables are anchored into the ground, but after completion of the bridge the forces are transferred to concrete upper and lower chords as prestressing forces. A single‐span composite truss bridge of this type can be constructed without temporary supports or falsework. Using this method to bridge a deep valley produces benefits in terms of both construction costs and sustainability. A single‐span bridge requires less excavation than other bridge types, and utilizing a composite truss with this construction method can minimize the environmental impact of the construction.

Induced Stresses from Lifting and Moving Highway Bridges with Self-Propelled Modular Transporters

This study discusses five bridges on I-80 in Utah that were replaced in the summer of 2008 by using accelerated bridge construction methods. Each superstructure was built off site and moved into place with self-propelled modular transporters. The bridges were instrumented and monitored during the moving process to investigate the effects of moving an entire superstructure into place. Collected data were analyzed to find the level of stress each superstructure experienced during lifting, moving, and placement of each bridge. Support conditions for these bridges changed considerably. During construction and when permanently placed, they were simply supported structures. During transport, the lift points were in the interior of the bridges, resulting in cantilevered ends and considerable stress reversals in the entire bridge. A two-dimensional analysis was done using the dead load of the structure to find the initial stresses in the superstructure when supported on temporary abutments. The measured change in stress resulting from lifting was compared with calculations. The difference between the two stresses was defined as the lifting stress in the superstructure. Dynamic stresses incurred as a result of bridge movement are determined and compared with recommendations.

Balanced Lift Method for Bridge Construction

The new bridge construction method described in this paper involves building the bridge girders in a vertical position and rotating the bridge girders into the final horizontal position. The bridge girders can be built in combination with the pier using self-climbing forms, which allows for lower costs and a shorter construction time. The span of the bridge girders is reduced by the compression struts or tension ties, which results in substantial savings in construction materials compared to the balanced cantilever method for bridge construction. The method proposed was successfully applied in two field tests on bridge models with spans of 15 and 17 m. The first test involved the use of compression struts and in the second test the bridge girders were raised using tension ties. Results of the field test on the compression strut bridge are compared with a case study.

Fuzzy AHP approach for selecting the suitable bridge construction method

Selecting an appropriate bridge construction method is essential for the success of bridge construction projects. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method has been widely used for solving multi-criteria decision-making problems. However, the conventional AHP method is incapable of handling the uncertainty and vagueness involving the mapping of one's preference to an exact number or ratio. This paper presents a fuzzy AHP model to overcome this problem. The proposed approach employs triangular and trapezoidal fuzzy numbers and the α-cut concept to deal with the imprecision inherent to the process of subjective judgment. A case study that evaluates bridge construction methods is presented to illustrate the use of the model and to demonstrate the capability of the model.

Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems in Japan and Europe

In April 2004, a scanning tour of Japan, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and France was made to obtain information about bridge construction methods being used to minimize traffic disruption, improve work zone safety, minimize environmental impact, improve constructibility, increase quality, and lower life-cycle costs. From information obtained from the tour, 10 technologies were identified for further consideration and possible implementation into U.S. practices. These included two technologies that allow bridges to be built off site and then moved to their final location in a short time, three superstructure systems and four deck systems that facilitate faster and safer construction, and one substructure system. The two technologies for moving bridges were self-propelled modular transporters and other moving systems, including skidding or sliding, incremental launching, floating, rotating, and lifting of bridges into place. The superstructure systems included a precast concrete deck system known as the Poutre Dalle system, the use of partial-depth concrete decks prefabricated on steel or concrete beams, and U-shaped precast concrete segments with transverse ribs. The deck systems involved full-depth prefabricated concrete decks, special cast-in-place closure joint details, hybrid steel–concrete deck systems, and a multiple-level corrosion protection system. The substructure system consisted of stay-in-place precast concrete panels that serve as both formwork and structural elements for solid and hollow bridge piers.

Part 3: Concrete Bridges: Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems in Japan and Europe

In April 2004, a scanning tour of Japan, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and France was made to obtain information about bridge construction methods being used to minimize traffic disruption, improve work zone safety, minimize environmental impact, improve constructibility, increase quality, and lower life-cycle costs. From information obtained from the tour, 10 technologies were identified for further consideration and possible implementation into U.S. practices. These included two technologies that allow bridges to be built off site and then moved to their final location in a short time, three superstructure systems and four deck systems that facilitate faster and safer construction, and one substructure system. The two technologies for moving bridges were self-propelled modular transporters and other moving systems, including skidding or sliding, incremental launching, floating, rotating, and lifting of bridges into place. The superstructure systems included a precast concrete deck system known as t...

The Confederation Bridge: an overview

The government of Canada requested a proposal to design, build, finance, maintain, and operate for 35 years a fixed link between the province of Prince Edward Island and the province of New Brunswick. Strait Crossing Development Inc. was the successful proponent achieving success through properly balancing the requirements of facility design, site-specific construction methods, risk and financing needs, and the operation and long-term maintenance of the facility. The bridge designed for the project is 12 910 m long, with the major part of the superstructure consisting of 43 spans, each 250 m in length and having a 4.5-14 m variable depth box cross section. This paper describes the structural system used in the bridge, the bridge components, construction methods, and marine operations. The major thrust of the project from an engineering view point is to maximize the utilization of precast concrete components, with each 250 m span consisting of four large precast units weighing up to 7800 t, and thereby minimizing the casting of concrete in the strait.

Prefabricated Press-Formed Steel T-Box Girder Bridge System

The conventional bridge construction methods are time consuming and costly because of the high costs of material and labor. In addition, bridge maintenance costs are increasing rapidly. Hence, the need for more economical techniques of rehabilitating existing bridges and building new ones is well recognized. To this end, several innovative modular bridge systems are being developed by the authors and have been reported in the literature. This paper presents the details of an all-steel superstructure system that is economical and suitable for span ranges of 40 to 100 ft under HS20-44 loading. Herein, it is referred to as the press-formed prefabricated steel box girder-bridge system.