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Abstract
The objective of this research work is to study the behavior of
joints of the ribbon-type floating bridges under the influence of transverse
loading conditions. Practical problems related to the load-carrying
capacity and overstressing of these bridges in the field use of these
bridges have been addressed, and possible practical solutions proposed
and evaluated. The effect of transverse current loads on the straining
actions in the bridge body were studied. An analytical algorithm is
developed for analyzing the bridge body under transverse loads, while
incorporating a nonlinear element representing the behavior of the
proposed connection joints.
An existing sophisticated software package (developed in previous
research work by the senior authors) developed using the proposed
analytical approach is extended, with emphasis placed on the automation
of the parameter variation process taking into account different cases,
where single or multiple boats are used to support the bridge laterally
against the water current forces. The results of this parametric study are
used to assess the advantages of using the proposed connection joints. A
practical proposal for the modification of the shape of existing joints
between the pontoons of floating bridges was made, with the objective of
reducing the bridge’s sensitivity to the movements of the supporting
boats. The developed software was used to test the efficiency of the
proposed modifications in the minimization and control of the transverse
moments developed in the bridge body, and to assess the effect of using
single or multiple boats to support the bridge laterally.
A practical proposal is developed which enables the site observers
to control the bridge movements with a set of criteria easy to follow in the
field. Practical recommendations are presented, which can be highly
valuable in the field of design and operation of these floating bridges.
Key words: Floating bridges - Ribbon bridges – Fluid structure interaction
– dynamic analysis