Flexure Analysis and Parameter Optimization of Light Type Abutment in Self-plane

AbstractThe theory of Bernoulli-Euler beam on Winkler elastic foundation was adopted to analyze light type abutment flexure in self-plane. The moment and foundation resistance of symmetrical center were assumed as the maximums for checking computation. Considering the shear deformation influence, the theory of Timoshenko beam on Winkler elastic foundation was used to analyze the flexure. It is concluded that (1) the maximal moment deviates from the symmetrical center, and it is greater than the moment at the symmetrical center; (2) it is unsafe to take the moment at symmetrical center as the maximal design moment, and the current method and the design process recommended by bridge engineering literatures are unsafe and deserved to discuss. The change of maximal moment with the shear stiffness and foundation modulus as well as the position change of maximal moment with the width of footing tread were analyzed. Based on the condition of upheaval, rational width of footing tread was studied.