Topology Optimization of Continuous Precast Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders Using Shape Memory Alloys
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 149, Issue 6
Abstract
Despite the growing interest in the concept of topology optimization, its acceptance in civil structures, especially in prestressed concrete structures, is still faced with practical obstacles primarily due to the geometric complexities of optimized structures. Quite often, complex concrete topology yields a complex distribution of tensile zones, which are hard to be effectively prestressed with continuous steel reinforcement. Shape memory alloys (SMAs), with their ability to apply localized prestressing force only at target tensile regions, can offer solutions to the issues facing conventional prestressing steel reinforcement in topology-optimized concrete structures. This paper investigates the topology optimization of prestressed concrete bridge girders using locally prestressed SMAs. A prototype continuous concrete bridge is selected to be optimized under the AASHTO loading conditions. To prove the feasibility of the optimized design, a detailed 3D finite element analysis is performed. The performance of the optimized girder is compared with that of two commonly used conventional designs. The results show that the optimized design can effectively satisfy the AASHTO limit state with less material than the conventional cases.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 149 • Issue 6 • June 2023
Copyright
© 2023 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Aug 22, 2022
Accepted: Jan 9, 2023
Published online: Mar 23, 2023
Published in print: Jun 1, 2023
Discussion open until: Aug 23, 2023
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Bridge engineering
- Bridges
- Bridges (by material)
- Bridges (by type)
- Concrete
- Concrete bridges
- Concrete structures
- Continuous bridges
- Engineering materials (by type)
- Girder bridges
- Materials engineering
- Materials processing
- Prestressed concrete
- Prestressing
- Reinforced concrete
- Smart materials
- Structural engineering
- Structures (by type)
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Cited by
- Junho Chun, Reliability-Based Topology Optimization Using the Virtual Element Method: An Integrated Framework, Journal of Structural Engineering, 10.1061/JSENDH.STENG-13071, 150, 7, (2024).