Distribution of vehicular loads on bridge girders by the FEA using ADINA: modeling, simulation, and comparison

Abstract This paper discusses how a general finite element (FE) code, such as ADINA, can be used to effectively and efficiently model the bridge superstructure system subjected to moving traffic loads and further to predict the accurate lateral distribution of such live loads on bridge longitudinal girders. An input generator suited for the ADINA Program was developed to facilitate the preparation of the tedious FE data as required, especially the varying movable loads. FE modeling techniques and features using the family of ADINA programs are presented and discussed in detail. Live-load distribution factors derived from the FE method are compared with those obtained by the other methods. Advantages of the FE method are also highlighted.