Bridges with multiple structural systems: The example of Trilj Bridge reconstruction in Croatia

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Radnić, Jure | Matešan, Domagoj^{; *} | Banović, Ivan

Affiliations: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, University of Split, Split, Croatia

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author. Domagoj Matešan, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, University of Split, Split, Croatia. Tel.: +385 21 303362; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: Development of multiple structural systems for bridges is useful in the design of new bridges and rehabilitation of existing bridges. This paper briefly presents some existing bridges with multiple structural systems and succinctly discusses design ideas for bridges with such systems. As an example of a bridge with multiple structural systems, the paper presents the reconstruction of a pedestrian suspension bridge in the City of Trilj, Croatia. The new bridge’s load-bearing structure is composed of several structural systems. Namely, the reconstructed bridge is a combination of suspension, cable-stayed and stress-ribbon bridge, which is laterally restrained with horizontal tensioned ropes. Numerical analysis was conducted on the renovated bridge. The results have shown an acceptable levels of stresses and deflections verifying the structural safety of the restored bridge. It is believed that this example of the bridge renovation may be useful in the design of new and strengthening of existing similar bridges.

Keywords: Bridges, multiple structural systems, Trilj Bridge reconstruction

DOI: 10.3233/BRS-210185

Journal: Bridge Structures, vol. 17, no. 1-2, pp. 65-75, 2021