Alternative probabilistic models of the lifetime maximum load are compared for bridge spans which may be loaded by multiple vehicles. Several vehicles crossing a bridge are modeled by the random spaces between vehicles and the random vehicle weights. Simulation tests confirm the validity of single-random-variable-per-truck models. Several stochastic models of bridge response are explored--A simulation-based model which identifies the random coincidence of multiple trucks (groups) on the bridge; a simplified version using the entire weight of a 'platoon' of trucks; and a non-simulation, discrete position (slot) model for congested traffic loading. Results from these models indicate that the congested traffic may take the dominant contribution to the extreme load event for long and even medium span bridges. A model of the contrasting free-flowing traffic may be limited to a few group sizes or a simplified lower-bound approximation.


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    Title :

    Modeling Extreme Vehicle Loads on Highway Bridges. Structural Loads Analysis and Specifications Project


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1978


    Size :

    200 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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