Modeling of bearings in structural systems for bridges

Abstract

<p>This paper deals with the representation of laminated rubber bearings in structural systems of bridges. First the main properties of rubber bearings, including the load-deflection-behavior and the moment-rotation-behavior, are presented. These are obtained from experiments and from numerical calculations. Since the properties are in general nonlinear, a series of idealizations are used and explained.</p> <p>From these properties linearizations are derived, that are commonly used in an analysis of a bridge structure.</p> <p>For the use with finite- element analysis of structural systems, then a special finite element is introduced, which is able to map some nonlinear characteristics of a real rubber bearing and can handle the interaction between horizontal, vertical and rotational loads. In addition, geometrical nonlinear effects will be taken into account.</p> <p>The paper closes with an example of a calculation of a bridge structure using the different concepts and representations of the bearings in the structural model. The differences in internal forces and displacements are shown.</p>