New Method for Generating Strut-and-Tie Models of Three-Dimensional Concrete Anchorage Zones and Box Girders
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 22, Issue 8
Abstract
The determination of a suitable strut-and-tie model (STM) of a number of disturbed three-dimensional (3D) domains is a challenging task. To overcome this problem, this paper presents a performance-based ground structure optimization method for automatically generating optimal STMs in 3D concrete structures. In this method, first, a new microtruss element in which each internal node provides equal opportunities for transferring loads is proposed. Then, an equivalence mode between the microtruss element and the continuum element is introduced to ensure a realistic and precise simulation of actual structures. Finally, several examples are used to demonstrate the capability of the proposed approach for revealing the true mechanisms of the load transfer in 3D concrete structures. The numerical results indicate that the developed algorithm can generate optimal STMs that are supported by design specifications and previously existing solutions and can be used in practice, especially in complex disturbed concrete structures for which STMs cannot be obtained by general optimization methods. Generally, the procedure presented in this paper is limited to homogeneous material with linear constitutive laws.
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Acknowledgments
This study is supported by China Postdoctoral Science Fund (Grant 2016M602167) and the Qingdao Postdoctoral Sustentation Fund of the P.R. China (Grant 2015201). The financial supports are gratefully acknowledged. The authors extend heartfelt gratitude to the anonymous reviewers for their helpful suggestions to improve the quality of this paper.
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Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 22 • Issue 8 • August 2017
Copyright
© 2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 24, 2016
Accepted: Mar 7, 2017
Published online: Jun 9, 2017
Published in print: Aug 1, 2017
Discussion open until: Nov 9, 2017
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