Bridge 3D Buffeting Analysis

Advanced numerical methods are used for estimation of bridge’s response to turbulent winds. Structural wind loads could then be provided either as time series or as simple patterns of effective static wind loads. These static loads are given in a tabular format for ease of application with other bridge loads.

Based on Buffeting Theory and using the static aerodynamic coefficients determined from the Design Review, Sectional Model Study, and/or 3D Force Balance Model Study, wind loads acting on the bridge are estimated. The analysis takes into account the effects of the mean and gust components of the wind as well as the resonant loading due to excitation of the bridge's modes of vibration by the wind. Approximately the lowest fifteen to twenty lowest modes of vibration of the bridge are considered. Based on our experience, this is sufficient to capture all-important dynamic responses contributing to the overall bridge loading.

Turbulent wind inducing loads on bridge deck

Time histories of buffeting responses

Power spectra of vertical responses