Computer aided design of prestressed concrete slab bridges

Abstract

In the paper, the most important guidelines and criteria used in the elaboration of a software package for the computer aided design of continuous prestressed concrete slab bridges are presented. They take into account the possible modifications concerning the live-load model, the specifications and regulations stated in codes, and the materials, in order to evaluate in a fast and accurate way the economical influence of these modifications in a particular bridge. The design of the bridge is accurate enough to have a very good approximation of its costs. The software package is a modular one. Each module works in a linked way with other modules or in an independent way. The main modules are the following: 1) Hypotesis module: live loads, materials, etc. 2) Superstructure module: slab Deck. 3) Joints and bearings design module. 4) Piers design module. 5) Abutments design module. 6) Piers and foundations design module. 7) Cost evaluation module: material amounts, unit costs and total budget of the bridge. 8) Cost sensitivity module. The main characteristics of each module are described in the paper.