Title: Computer aided design of highway bridges composed by precast girders

Author(s): Casas i Ruis, J.R.; Aparicio Bengoechea, A.C.

Publication: ACHE

Volume: 41

Issue: 176

Appears on pages(s): 19 - 23

Keywords:

DOI:

Date: 1/5/1990

Abstract:
In the paper the most important guidelines and criteria used in the elaboration of a software package for the computer aided design of highway bridges composed by precast girders are presented. They take into account the possible modifications concerning the live-load model, the specifications and regulations stated in the codes and the materials in order to evaluate in a fast and accurate way the economical influence of this modifications in a particular bridge. The design of the bridge is accurate enough to have a very good approximation of its cost. The software package is a modular one. Each module works in a linked way with other modules or in an independent way.The main modules ar the following: - Data Base Manegement Module. - Hypotesis Module: live loads, materials, etc. - Superstructure design model: slab + girders. - Joints and bearings design module. - Piers design module (maximum pier length is 40 m). - Abutments design module. - Cost evaluation module: materials measurement and prices. - Cost sensitivity module. The main characteristics of each module are described in the paper.