Analytical study on the dynamic response of a vertically single-span arch bridge due to passing vehicle

This paper investigates the dynamic response of the vertical arch bridge due to the moving vehicle. These responses include the record of vertical, horizontal displacements, and the rotation of various points of a single-span arch bridge. Moreover, the reference points were positioned at one-quarter, half, and three-quarters of the bridge span length. Considering the complicated behavior of these structures, field experiments are essential to assess their behavior. However, it is impossible to perform field experiments for every type of these structures due to their diversity. Therefore, accurate simulation seems essential to study their behavior. Accordingly, the Finite Element Method (FEM) has been employed to model the bridge structure. Primarily, the modeling was coded using FEM in MATLAB software, furthermore, the bridge-vehicle interaction model was applied, then the effect of arch radius modifications on bridge parameters was examined. Validation was carried out in two methods. The first included the modeling of the bridge in finite element software and a comparison of the modes shape and frequency of the first three modes with the results of the modeling and The second, compared the time history responses of displacement in the middle of the bridge and the degree of freedom of vehicle in the present study with previous prominent studies. The results of validation showed appropriate consistency, which confirmed the modeling. According to the results of the present study, by increasing the curvature radius of the beams, the vertical displacement in the middle of their spans increases. Furthermore, by reducing the curvature radius of the beams, the horizontal displacement of the middle of its span increases, which shows the reverse result compared to the vertical displacement. Moreover, the advantages of the presented study include simplicity, appropriate accuracy, and practicality in the monitoring of bridge health.