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Archive for April, 2010
Student Prize Winner 2009
A dynamic programming algorithm for optimization of composite steel box girder bridges under static and dynamic loading
Breiffni Fitzgerald – Trinity College, Dublin
This project proposes and develops a new dynamic programming algorithm for the optimisation of composite steel box girder bridges of single or multi-span under static and dynamic loads.
Displacement transfer function at mid-span for damped three-span bridge
The dynamic programming algorithm proposed is based on a combination of EXCEL based optimisation solver and finite element modelling for dynamic analysis. In addition supplemental damping devices are optimally designed. The algorithm is as follows. At first, the bridge considered is subjected to static loads and optimised. The optimal parameters obtained from this static optimisation are then used to create a finite element model of the bridge. This model is analysed dynamically to obtain the natural frequencies of the bridge and the mode shapes. Tuned Mass Dampers (TMDs) are then attached to the bridge at critical locations as defined by the mode shapes and are tuned to the natural frequency of the structure to reduce the structural response. These TMDs are tuned optimally. The composite box girder bridge is thus optimised for static and dynamic loading.