Aeroelastic Analysis of Cable-Stayed Bridges
By Robert H. Scanlan
Prof., Dept. of Civ. Engrg.,The Johns Hopkins Univ., Baltimore, MD 21218-2686
Hon M. ASCE
and Nicholas P. Jones
Asst. Prof., Dept. of Civ. Engrg.,The Johns Hopkins Univ., Baltimore,
MD 21218-2699, A.M. ASCE
Abstract:
The aeroelastic response of cable-stayed bridges to wind is a complex
interaction of aerodynamic loading and coupled structural motion. The present
paper presents an empirically-based analysis method for such structures, based
on a flutter-derivative formulation. The principal perceived advantage of the
approach adopted herein is that the full three-dimensional complexities of the
system may be incorporated, while retaining insight into the physical
mechanisms involved. Two examples, covering the erection and completed stages
of a twin-deck structure, are presented and discussed. Correlation of the
method with three-dimensional wind-tunnel tests is presented. Finally,
attention is given to the effects of turbulence in the incoming wind; the
flutter-derivative approach is successfully used to explain phenomena observed
in full-scale tests and in practice.