Modelling and Control of a Suspended-Span Bridge Section

Abstract We study the modelling and flutter suppression of a suspended-span bridge section using aerodynamic control means. The aerodynamic actuators are controllable leading- and trailing-edge flaps fitted to both edges of the bridge deck. The modelling is based on thin aerofoil theory which describes the bridge deck - air stream interactions. The model also consider the mass and inertia effects of the flaps. Passive mechanical controllers are proposed that sense the vertical velocity of the leading- and trailing-edge flap pivots and use these signals to produce control torques and adjust the flap angles accordingly. The control system is insensitive to the wind direction in the case of identical leading- and trailing-edge mechanical controllers. The Akashi-Kaikyo bridge is used as a working example for the numerical simulation evaluation of the control system performance.