Comparative Analysis of Structural Response in Single-Span and Three-Span ۴۰-cm Concrete Bridge Decks under Combined Concentrated and Distributed Vertical Loads

The structural performance of bridge decks is significantly influenced by their geometric configuration and the nature of the applied loading. This study presents a comparative numerical analysis of the structural response of an ۸-meter concrete bridge deck with a ۴۰-cm thickness, specifically evaluating the differences between single-span (determinate) and three-span continuous (indeterminate) systems under combined vertical distributed and concentrated loads. Using finite element analysis (FEA), both systems were modeled to investigate the distribution of Von Mises stress and maximum vertical displacement ( ) under service conditions. The simulation results indicate a distinct divergence in mechanical behavior: the three-span continuous configuration exhibits significantly higher peak stress and vertical displacement compared to the single-span system. This phenomenon is primarily attributed to the redistribution of internal forces and the influence of continuity over intermediate supports. The findings emphasize that while structural continuity enhances system redundancy, it also introduces more complex stress demands that must be precisely addressed in the design process. This research provides critical insights into the performance-based design of short-span bridge decks, highlighting the necessity of evaluating structural continuity when optimizing for stress and deformation control.

کلیدواژه ها:

Single-Span Concrete Bridge ، Structural Performance ، Finite Element Analysis (FEA)