Schematic Design of Pan-pipes Shape Pylon for Long-span Bridges

It is well known that the vertical axial force in pylon of long-span cable-stayed bridge and suspension bridge is extremely large. To enhance the structural transverse stability, the crossbeams are generally positioned among the top of the towers. The paper presents an innovative pan-pipes shape pylon different from the traditional pylons. The pylon is composed of two separated main towers and several affiliated towers besides it. Two main towers of the pylon are connected by a crossbeam under rather than above the main girder (stiffening girder). Meanwhile, affiliated towers are positioned beside the main tower to guarantee the transverse stiffness of the structure. The number of the affiliated towers for each main tower and the height ratio among the towers are considered to guarantee the harmonious beauty of the whole pylon structure and the transverse stability of the main tower.