A baseline finite element model was developed for bridge management and calibration using nondestructive test data. The model calibration technique was evaluated on the Vernon Avenue Bridge over the Ware River in Barre, Massachusetts. This newly constructed bridge was instrumented throughout its construction phases in preparation for a static truck load test performed before the bridge opening. The strain data collected during the load test was used to calibrate a detailed baseline finite element model in an effort to represent the 3D system behavior of the bridge. Three methods of load ratings were used and compared: (1) conventional method, (2) conventional method updated by using NDT data, and (3) finite element model calibrated with NDT data.

SUMMARY A new method is presented for finite element model (FEM) updating using frequency response functions and numerical sensitivities. The proposed method differs from methods currently in the literature by using numerical sensitivities to solve the inverse problem instead of analytical sensitivities. This method combines the usefulness of commercially available finite element modeling programs with advanced optimization algorithms to solve the inverse problem while requiring neither model reduction nor data expansion. The method is applied to several simulated test cases in which damage is detected and the usefulness of the method is shown. The method proved to be robust, stable, error tolerant, and successful in estimating unknown structural parameters using frequency response functions for FEM updating. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

No abstract