The Finite Strip Method (FSM) is one of the most efficient methods for structural analysis of bridges, reducing the time required for analysis without affecting the degree of accuracy. The Finite strip method is therefore an ideal platform for the traditional time-consuming dynamic analysis of long span bridges. The dynamic behavior of a continuous long span bridge significantly depends on the properties of all the bridge structural components. However, the current practice of using the finite strip method is limited to the analysis of the bridge deck subjected to simulated boundary conditions over the supports. The interactions between different bridge structures cannot be modeled using conventional methods....[ Read more ]

The Finite Strip Method (FSM) is one of the most efficient methods for structural analysis of bridges, reducing the time required for analysis without affecting the degree of accuracy. The Finite strip method is therefore an ideal platform for the traditional time-consuming dynamic analysis of long span bridges. The dynamic behavior of a continuous long span bridge significantly depends on the properties of all the bridge structural components. However, the current practice of using the finite strip method is limited to the analysis of the bridge deck subjected to simulated boundary conditions over the supports. The interactions between different bridge structures cannot be modeled using conventional methods.

In this regard, this study introduces an integrated analytical solution for continuous long span bridges by modeling all the bridge components together, using the spline finite strip method. The Column Strips are developed to model the cantilever-behaved piers and towers, and Cable Strip is developed for the cables in long span bridges. In addition, a special Transition Section is developed to combine different structures in the finite strip environment. By representing the whole bridge as a single integrated system, the actual dynamic behavior of the bridge can be studied using the conventional dynamic analysis method. Moreover, by using the Pseudo Excitation Method (PEM), which is a fast complete quadratic combination algorithm using power spectral density matrix for random responses, the dynamic analysis of a complicated continuous long span structure can be performed in minimal time.

In the study, the development of the Column Strips, Cable Strip and the Transition Section are presented, and the application of the time-history analysis method and PEM in the finite strip environment is introduced. Furthermore, three numerical examples are shown to demonstrate the accuracy and the efficiency of the proposed solution.