The grillage analogy in bridge analysis

Abstract

The grillage analogy method for analyzing bridge superstructures has been in use for quite some time. The idealization of a bridge by a grillage is not axiomatic and is not without pitfalls. An attempt is made in this paper to provide guidance on grillage idealization of various types of structure, together with the relevant background information. Specifically, the paper deals with the idealization of slab, beam-and-slab, cellular, and voided-slab bridges. Idealization of slabs of linearly varying thickness is also discussed. Guidance is provided on the mesh layout. Keywords: analysis, beam-and-slab bridges, cellular structures, flexural rigidity, grillage, idealization, load, mesh, slab bridges, torsional rigidity, voided slab.