Updating super-element model of a bridge deck using generic sub-element

Based on the concept of Damage Detection Orientated Modeling, a structural modeling methodology is proposed, in which a super-element representing a segment of a large-scale structure, e.g. bridge deck with sub-elements correspond to the individual structural component. The huge number of DOFs in the analytical model of structures is reduced dramatically with this super-element method. By introducing generic sub-element into the selection strategies of the updating parameters, the initial super-element model of the structure is then updated using Eigensensitivity method. The deck segment of Tsing Ma Bridge is taken as an example to demonstrate the super-element modeling and updating method.