Approach Slab and Its Effect on Vehicle Induced Bridge Vibration

Firstly, this book discussed the structural performance of the approach slab under given embankment settlement. Based on a parametric study, a correlation among the slab parameters, deflections, internal moments, and the differential settlements has been established. Based on finite element analysis, internal forces and deformations of ribbed slabs have been predicted and their designs are conducted. Secondly, a fully computerized vehicle-bridge coupled model has been developed to analyze the effect of approach slab deformation on bridges' dynamic response induced by moving vehicles. With this model, a parametric study reveals that the deformation at the approach span causes significant dynamic responses in short span bridges. Finally, this study investigated the possibility of using tuned mass damper (TMD) to suppress the vehicle-induced bridge vibration under the condition of uneven bridge expansion joints.