Comparative Assessment of Lateral and Vertical Load Effects on a Four Span Parker Truss Bridge

The structural behavior of steel truss bridges with Parker configurations is significantly influenced by their variable-depth geometry, which optimizes load distribution for vertical loads. However, the combined effects of vertical and horizontal loads—arising from traffic and environmental factors such as wind and seismic actions—pose complex challenges to the stability and performance of these structures. This study investigates a four-span Parker truss bridge subjected to simultaneous vertical and horizontal loading using finite element analysis in Abaqus. The model incorporates rigidly connected steel beam elements representing the truss members. Different loading cases including pure vertical load, pure horizontal load, and combined loading are analyzed to explore their interaction effects on displacement and stress distribution. Results indicate that the combined loading produces a non-linear increase in both vertical and lateral displacements, as well as amplified von Mises stresses in critical chord and web members, compared to single load cases. These findings highlight the importance of considering load interactions in the design and assessment of variable-depth Parker truss bridges, providing valuable insights for improving their robustness and serviceability under realistic operating conditions.

کلیدواژه ها:

Parker truss bridge ، combined vertical and horizontal loading ، finite element analysis