Analysis Procedure for Ribbed and Grid Plate Systems Used for Bridge Decks

Abstract

A methodology to develop analytically the deflection function characterizing the behavior of bridge decks in which the concrete slab rests on top of a network of steel beams is presented. The systems analyzed are categorized as ribbed plate systems, where the beams are parallel to the longitudinal span of the decking, and grid plate systems, where the slab is supported on a beam grid system. The plate systems are analyzed using an energy‐based approach, where polynomial functions are used to model deflections and moments in the slab. In the analysis only plates that are simply supported on two edges and that are subjected to particular types of uniformly distributed and concentrated load patterns are considered. Sufficient cases are analyzed, and prediction equations for maximum bending moments and deflections of the slab are developed using regression analysis procedure.