•Structural assessment using sophisticated non-linear finite element models.•Search for best arrangement based on the substructuring method.•Real load distribution over a new launching mechanism.
...This paper presents a numerical study of the structural interaction between a bridge and a new continuous device for launching heavy structures using the force of friction. In this way, it provides a great contribution for the civil engineering field focused on a new method for launching bridges by a continuous and bidirectional mechanism. A non-linear finite element model using contact elements studies the structural interaction between the bridge and the new device. Bridge and device interaction are studied using linear and non-linear contact behavior. The substructuring technique is used for the bridge modeling in order to reduce the overall degrees of freedom. This technique allows the selection of the best arrangement for two mechanism models placed under the webs of the bridge: two parallel arrangements where external device is opposite or behind the internal one, and other arrangement with devices in series. Furthermore, the non-uniform load distribution over the mechanism was studied during the launching process. With this methodology, it is possible to study the structural behavior of the mechanism taking into account the real load distribution applied for the bridge during the launching process.
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GEOZS, IJS, IMTLJ, KILJ, KISLJ, NUK, OILJ, PNG, SAZU, SBCE, SBJE, UL, UM, UPCLJ, UPUK
The aim of this paper is to design and study a new mechanism for moving heavy structures using the force of friction. The mechanism designed is called DCACLM and was patented in 2011. This new device ...is based on an inverted crawler which is able to displace heavy structures such as large span bridges in a continuous and bidirectional way. Furthermore, the DCACLM design has taken into account other important aspects such as safety and sustainability in order to develop new construction methods. Nonlinear numerical models using the Finite Element Method have been developed to study the complex structural behavior of this new mechanism. The main conclusions provide acceptable results in terms of stresses and strains for the main elements of DCACLM.
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•Development of a device for moving heavy structures using the friction force.•Study of a new mechanism using advanced simulation tools: CAD and FEM programs.•Nonlinear structural analysis with multi-contact friction model using FEM.
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GEOZS, IJS, IMTLJ, KILJ, KISLJ, NUK, OILJ, PNG, SAZU, SBCE, SBJE, UL, UM, UPCLJ, UPUK
Construction of bridges is associated with uncertainties that rise due to unavailability of resources, equipment breakdown and/or working environment. Bridge construction techniques can be grouped ...into six main categories: 1) cast-in-situ on false work, 2) cantilever carriage, 3) stepping formwork, 4) launching girder, 5) pre-cast balanced cantilever, and 6) incremental launching. The latter technique is characterised by minimising the use of falsework. Further, the fabrication and casting of bridge segments are executed at a stationary location, named casting yard (which includes several facilities), deck form, concrete mixing unit, and pumping system. This paper presents a special purpose simulation model to capture the uncertainty associated with bridge construction. The model accounts for the interaction between the different involved resources in construction of bridges using incremental launching technique. The paper describes two methods (single form and multiple forms) of execution used for the segments fabrication. The proposed simulation model utilises STROBOSCOPE as a simulation engine and is coded by Visual Basic 6.0. An actual case study is presented to illustrate the capabilities of the developed model and validate its performance.
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IZUM, KILJ, NUK, PILJ, PNG, SAZU, UL, UM, UPUK
Construction of bridges is associated with uncertainties that rise due to unavailability of resources, equipment breakdown and/or working environment. Bridge construction techniques can be grouped ...into six main categories: 1) cast‐in‐situ on false work, 2) cantilever carriage, 3) stepping formwork, 4) launching girder, 5) pre‐cast balanced cantilever, and 6) incremental launching. The latter technique is characterised by minimising the use of falsework. Further, the fabrication and casting of bridge segments are executed at a stationary location, named casting yard (which includes several facilities), deck form, concrete mixing unit, and pumping system. This paper presents a special purpose simulation model to capture the uncertainty associated with bridge construction. The model accounts for the interaction between the different involved resources in construction of bridges using incremental launching technique. The paper describes two methods (single form and multiple forms) of execution used for the segments fabrication. The proposed simulation model utilises STROBOSCOPE as a simulation engine and is coded by Visual Basic 6.0. An actual case study is presented to illustrate the capabilities of the developed model and validate its performance.
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IZUM, KILJ, NUK, PILJ, PNG, SAZU, UL, UM, UPUK
The risk factors of continuous incremental launching bridge during construction stage are specialized. The risk in incremental launching stage is analyzed and identified. A risk assessment index ...system is built. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model is developed. The results obtained from the risk assessment model verifies the validity and practicality of the developed method by the combination of analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy mathematics theory. Moderate risk assessment results are developed to provide references for incremental launching construction method.
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