Aeroelastic Control of Long Span Suspension Bridges during Erection

Abstract

<p>The 3D structural and aerodynamic modelling of a long span suspension bridge is considered and emphasis is placed on the simulation of the aeroelastic properties during the deck erection process. We then employ a leading-and trailing edge flap configuration on a finite deck length around the mid-point of the main span and investigate ist effectiveness in raising the critical flutter and divergence speed. In order to account for modelling errors and uncertainties in the controller design process we invoke elements from robust control theory and a nonlinear optimization algorithm is proposed to achieve the performance objectives.</p>