Dynamic analysis of concrete pavements resting on a two‐parameter medium

Abstract

Abstract An analysis procedure based on the finite element method is presented to solve moving‐load problems of rigid pavements. The algorithm presented considers the dynamic pavement‐aircraft interaction effects. The pavement‐foundation system is modelled by thin‐plate, non‐conforming finite elements resting on a two‐parameter elastic medium. The moving aircraft loads are represented by masses supported by a spring‐dashpot system moving at a specified initial horizontal velocity and acceleration. The accuracy of the finite element program developed is verified by comparing the numerical results of a static problem with the available solution. A parametric study is conducted to determine the effects of the various parameters on the dynamic response of pavements. Emphasis is placed on identifying the influence of fictitious edge and corner forces acting on the plate due to the deformation of the soil medium outside the plate.