Moving load effect on a bridge

Moving loads represent the dominant component of the load on traffic structures such as bridges and roads. The response of these structures to moving loads can be modeled numerically using a FEM system such as ADYNA or ANSYS. The process requires the creation of a suitable vehicle and bridge computational models. For the purposes of this paper, a spatial computational model of a Tatra T815 heavy truck was created. The modeled bridge is a two span structure with a slab deck. A smooth surface of the bridge is assumed. At the beginning of the solution, the bridge is at rest and the vehicle enters the bridge already vibrated. The dynamic deflections of the bridge and the vehicle over time are monitored. It is possible to display bending moments in the transverse and longitudinal direction and torques at any time. It is also possible to obtain the values of the contact forces between the vehicle wheel and the bridge at any time. The vehicle can move along the bridge at any speed.