Parametric study using a curved shell finite element to dynamic analysis of footbridge under rhythmic loading.

Abstract

When designing structural systems, the relation between form and structure is not always considered, because architects and engineers work independently. Structures with mutual collaboration such as surface-active (e.g., shells) when well-designed can optimize specific behaviors. This work proposes an analysis of some parameters that influence the dynamic behavior of footbridges under rhythmic loading. The variation of these parameters allows defining different mass distribution along the footbridge with a constant total weight. The relation between form and structure was also analyzed in this parametric study considering two architectural models for the footbridges. The parametric study proposed required a dynamic analysis of shells with variable thickness. Therefore, the formulation of a curved shell finite element is presented. This element is based on a degenerate three-dimensional solid element and is restricted to the behavior of shell under the Reissner–Mindlin approach. Two classic examples from the literature and the analytical solution of a long cylindrical shell under membrane and bending behavior were used in the validation of the curved shell finite element used in numerical analysis. From the proposed parametric study, results are presented for the parameters that define a better response in relation to the vibration fundamental frequencies of the footbridge and its maximum accelerations due to a rhythmic loading. It is concluded that the form of the curved shell supporting the flat slab significantly affects the footbridge dynamic behavior.