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SAP2000BridgeExamples 2007/7/2 11:42 page i #1

SAP2000
B RIDGE E XAMPLES

Computers and Structures, Inc.

1995 University Avenue
Berkeley, California 94704, USA
http://www.csiberkeley.com

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SAP2000BridgeExamples 2007/7/2 11:42 page ii #2

SAP2000 Bridge Examples

Copyright by Computers and Structures, Inc, 2006
All rights reserved.

The computer program SAP2000 and all associated documentation are proprietary and copyrighted products. Worldwide rights of ownership rest with Computers and Structures, Inc. Unlicensed use of the program or reproduction of
the documentation in any form, without prior written authorization from Computers and Structures, Inc., is explicitly prohibited.
Further information and copies of this documentation may be obtained from:
CSI Educational Services
Computers and Structures, Inc.
1995 University Avenue
Berkeley, California 94704 USA
Phone: (510) 845-2177
Fax:
(510) 845-4096
Email: [email protected] (for general questions)
Email: [email protected] (for technical support questions)
Web: www.csiedu.com

The CSI Logo, ETABS , SAP2000 and SAP90 are registered trademarks
of Computers and Structures, Inc.; SAFE is a trademark of Computers and
Structures, Inc.

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SAP2000BridgeExamples 2007/7/2 11:42 page iii #3

PREFACE

This lecture is generally geared towards the intermediate user level of SAP2000. However, if you have never used SAP2000 or SAP2000 Bridge Modeler before, the level of
information provided is intended to give the user sufficient information to reproduce
all of the bridge examples contained in this booklet. We have designed this course
such that the inexperienced SAP2000 user will have no problem following along. The
end-to-end examples that are presented will exhibit the most general and common
modeling techniques.
It is strongly recommended that the SAP2000 user read Chapter XXVI, Bridge Analysis, of the Analysis Reference Manual. The SAP2000 user can use the Help / Documantation / Manuals command to find this document.

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SAP2000BridgeExamples 2007/7/2 11:42 page v #5

SEMINAR TOPICS

Preface .

Seminar Topics

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Part I
I.1
I.2
I.3
I.4
I.5
I.6
I.7
I.8
I.9
I.10
I.11
I.12
I.13
I.14
I.15
I.16
I.17

Concrete Box Girder Bridge

Concrete Box Girder Bridge Example
Description . . . . . . . . .
Model Parameters . . . . . . .
Modeling Steps . . . . . . . .
Step 1: Layout Lines . . . . . .
Step 2: Deck Section Definition . .
Step 3: Abutment Definition . . .
Step 4: Bent Definition . . . . .
Step 5: Diaphragm Definition . . .
Step 6: Hinge Definition . . . . .
Step 7: Parametric Variation Definition
Step 8: Bridge Object Definition . .
Step 9: Update Linked Model . . .
Step 10: Lane Definition . . . . .
Step 11: Vehicle Definition . . . .
Step 12: Analysis Cases . . . . .
Results . . . . . . . . . .

Part II
II.1
II.2
II.3
II.4
II.5
II.6
II.7
II.8
II.9
II.10
II.11
II.12

Steel Bridge
Steel Bridge Example 1.0 . . . .
Layout Line Definition . . . . .
Deck Section Definition . . . . .
Bridge Object 1 Definition . . . .
Create Linked Model . . . . . .
Modify Abutment Properties . . .
Modify Bent Properties . . . . .
Modify Vertical Diaphragm Properties
Further Modify Bridge Object 1 . .
Update Linked Bridge Model . . .
Analyze BOBJ1 . . . . . . .
Live Loads . . . . . . . . .

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vi

CSI SAP2000 B RIDGE E XAMPLES

II.13
II.14
II.15
II.16
II.17
II.18

Add Vehicles . . . . . . . .
Add Analysis Case . . . . . .
Add Trucks with Speed and Direction
Add Bridge Extensions . . . . .
Completed Model . . . . . . .
Final Analysis . . . . . . . .

Part III Cablestayed Bridge

III.1 Cable stayed Bridge Example . . .
III.2 Description of Cable stayed Bridge .
III.3 Description of Model . . . . .
III.4 Nonlinear Material Property Definition
III.5 Cable Property Definition . . . .
III.6 Deck Section Definition . . . . .
III.7 Pylon Section Definition . . . . .
III.8 Model Creation . . . . . . . .
III.9 Group Assignments . . . . . .
III.10 Staged Construction Analysis Case .

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APPENDIX

67

Part A Mesh Transitioning, Compatibility, and Line Constraint

A.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.2 Example 1: Simply Supported Plate (Mismatched Meshing)
A.3 Example 2: Curved Ramp Supported by Curved Wall . .
A.4 Example 3: Floor Slab Shear Wall Compatibility . . .
A.5 Example 4: Shear Wall Spandrel Transition . . . . .

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Bibliography .

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About the Speakers

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SAP2000BridgeExamples 2007/7/2 11:42 page 1 #9

PART I
Concrete Box Girder Bridge

I.1 Concrete Box Girder Bridge Example

Figure I.1: Full Concrete Box Girder Bridge

I.2 Description
This example demonstrates the powerful bridge module in SAP2000. The model is a
concrete box girder bridge with a 200 ft span and is loaded with 2 traffic lanes. The
bridge has 3 columns with different heights supporting the deck at midspan. There
are parametric variations along the length of the bridge as well as prestressed tendons
assigned to the deck. The bridge abutments are skewed 15 degrees at the 2 ends of the
bridge deck.

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I.3 Model Parameters

The overall deck depth has a depth 5 ft and a width of 36 ft. Kip-feet-second units
are used. To see the deck cross-section geometry, please refer to Figure below. Other
parameters associated with the structure are as follows:
Clear span of bridge
Overall depth of deck
Width of deck, b
Concrete strength, fc
Yield strength of steel, fy
Concrete unit weight, Wc
Modulus of elasticity, Ec
Modulus of elasticity, Es
Poissons ratio, v

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200 ft
5 ft
36 ft
4000 psi
60000 psi
150 pcf
3600 ksi
29000 ksi
0.2

Table I.1: Model Parameters

I.4 Modeling Steps

This concrete box girder example is intended to give the user some experience with
each of the steps defined in the Bridge Wizard. Twelve steps are used to complete the
concrete box girder example and various dialog boxes are shown to make it easier for
the first time user to follow along or reconstruct the model. This model will make use
of many of the SAP200 Bridge Module features including bridge analysis, influence
lines and surfaces, and the use of prestress tendons. To build the bridge model, a
12-step process is described below.
1. Layout Lines
2. Deck Sections
3. Abutments
4. Bents
5. Diaphragms
6. Hinges
7. Parametric Variations
8. Bridge Object definitions
9. Update of linked model
10. Lanes
11. Vehicles/Vehicle Classes
12. Analysis Cases

Table I.2: Modeling Steps

The user can quickly define a basic model that applies program defaults using the
following abbreviated approach:

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a. Define a layout line using Step 1.

b. Define a deck section using Step 2.
c. Skip to Step 8 to create a bridge object.
d. Create a linked model using Step 9.

Table I.3: Abbreviated Approach

For the abbreviated approach, SAP2000 will apply default abutment, bent, hinge, and
diaphragm properties. If necessary, Steps 3, 4, 5 and 6 of this Wizard can be used to
change those default definitions. In addition, prestressed tendons can be added as part
of the bridge object definition (see Step 8).
Each one of the 12-steps is described in detail.

I.5 Step 1: Layout Lines

The first step in creating a bridge object is to define the layout line. Layout lines are
used as reference lines for defining the vertical and horizontal layout of bridge objects
and lanes.
Layout lines are defined in terms of stations, bearings and grades. The lines may
be straight, bent or curved both in the horizontal and the vertical plane. Horizontal
curves are circular (with spirals if necessary) and vertical curves are parabolic. In this
example, the End Station is defined as 220 ft. The final bridge will have a span of 200
ft and will shorter then the layout line.
Use the Quick Start options to quickly define a layout line. You will see the many
choices available for both Horizontal and Vertical curves. Select the Straight line in
both cases.

I.6 Step 2: Deck Section Definition

Various parametric bridge deck sections are available for use in defining a bridge. They
include concrete box girders, concrete beam and steel beam sections. Select the External Girders Vertical option. Enter the total width and depth shown in Figure I.2below.
After a deck section has been defined it can be assigned to a span as part of the bridge
object definition (see Step 8).

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CSI SAP2000 B RIDGE E XAMPLES

Figure I.2: Define Bridge Deck Section Data

I.7 Step 3: Abutment Definition

Abutment definitions specify the support conditions at the ends of the bridge.
An abutment definition can be a specified Link/Support property or it can be a user
defined support condition. The user support condition allows each of the six degrees
of freedom at the abutment to be specified as fixed, free or partially restrained with a
specified spring constant.
An abutment definition also allows the horizontal location of the abutment supports to
be specified. A single abutment support can be located at the reference line location
or multiple abutment supports can be located either at each girder or equally spaced
over the bridge width. When multiple locations are indicated the specified abutment
support properties are provided at each support location.
It is also possible to specify that a closure (vertical diaphragm) of some thickness is to
be provided at the abutment. This closure is only applicable to area object and solid
object models.
For this example, select the U2, R1, and R3 DOF directions to have a Free release
type. The other directions should have a Fixed release type. Under the Horizontal
Location of Abutment Supports, select the every girder location option.

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Figure I.3: Parametric Variation Definition

I.8 Step 4: Bent Definition

Bent definitions specify the geometry and section properties of the bent cap beam and
the bent column(s). They also specify the base support condition of the bent columns.
The specified base support condition for a bent column can be Fixed, Pinned or a user

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CSI SAP2000 B RIDGE E XAMPLES

defined column support. A user defined column support can be a specified Link/Support
property or it can be a user defined support condition. The user support condition allows each of the six degrees of freedom at the column base to be specified as fixed,
free or partially restrained with a specified spring constant. The user defined column
support is defined separately from the bent.
It is also possible to specify that a vertical diaphragm is to be provided at the bent
location. The diaphragm is only applicable to area object and solid object models. It
does not apply to spine models.
After a bent is defined it can be assigned to the bridge as part of the bridge object
definition (see Step 8).
In this example, click on the Bride menu Bents and select the Add New Bridge Bent
option. In the Bent Data box, type in the number of columns: 3. Next, click on the
Modify/Show Column Data box in the lower left hand corner. Fill out the form as
shown in Figure I.4below and click OK. Make sure you are in Kip-ft units.

Figure I.4: Define Bridge Bent Properties

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I.9 Step 5: Diaphragm Definition

Diaphragm definitions specify properties of vertical diaphragms that span transverse
across the bridge.
A diaphragm property can be solid concrete; steel X, V or K bracing; or a single steel
beam. Solid concrete diaphragm properties are only applicable to concrete bridge
sections. Steel diaphragm properties are only applicable to steel bridge sections.
Diaphragms in general are only applicable to area object and solid object models. They
do not apply to spine models.
After a diaphragm definition has been created it can be assigned to one or more spans
in the bridge object (see Step 8).
It is not necessary to define a diaphragm property before defining a bridge object.
If no diaphragms are defined when a diaphragm is first added to a bridge object, the
program automatically creates a default diaphragm property. For this example, we will
not assign specific diaphragm properties.

I.10 Step 6: Hinge Definition

Hinge definitions specify properties of hinges (expansion joints) and restrainers.
A hinge property can be a specified Link/Support property or it can be a user-defined
spring. The user spring allows each of the six degrees of freedom at the hinge to be
specified as fixed, free or partially restrained with a specified spring constant.
A restrainer property can be a specified Link/Support property or it can be a userdefined restrainer. The user restrainer is specified by a length, area and modulus of
elasticity.
A hinge definition also allows the horizontal location of the hinge springs and restrainers to be specified. A single hinge spring (and restrainer) can be located at the reference
line location or multiple hinge springs (and restrainers) can be located at each girder
or equally spaced over the bridge width. When multiple locations are indicated the
specified spring and restrainer properties are provided at each support location.
It is also possible to specify that a vertical diaphragm is to be provided at the hinge location. The specified diaphragm is provided on each side of the hinge. This diaphragm
is only applicable to area object and solid object models. It does not apply to spine
models.
After a hinge definition has been created it can be assigned to one or more spans in the
bridge object (see Step 8). It is not necessary to define a hinge property before defining
a bridge object.

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I.11 Step 7: Parametric Variation Definition

Parametric variations define variations in the deck section along the length of the
bridge. Any parameter used in the parametric definition of the deck section can be
specified to vary. One or more of the parameters can vary at the same time. Each
varying parameter can have its own unique variation.
Example uses of parametric variations include varying the bridge depth and the thickness of girders and slabs along the length of the bridge. The variations may be linear,
parabolic or circular.
After a variation has been defined it can be assigned to spans in the bridge object (see
Step 8). When a variation is defined it should be defined with the same length as the
bridge span to which it is assigned.
For this example, we will define 2 variations (one for each span of the bridge.) Under
the Bridge/Parametric Definitions command, select the Add New Variation, then using
the quick start button, select the Parabolic Linear variation. Fill out the form as shown
in Figure I.5 below:

Figure I.5: Parametric Variation Definition

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PART I.

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Next, in the same manner as described in the steps above, create a 2nd variation. Only,
this time the variation shall be defined with the Linear Parabolic quick start option.
The new PARV2 variation should be the exact mirror of the PARV1 variation. Next
the user needs to apply these variations to the bridge object. This can be accomplished
by first using the Bridge/Bridge Objectscommand, then opening the Bridge Objects
dialog box and selecting the modify/show spans command. The user should apply the
PARV1 and PARV2 variations to the Span1 and SpanToEnd as shown in Figure I.6
below. See also, the steps outlined in Step 8 below.

Figure I.6: Assign Parametric Variation To Span

I.12 Step 8: Bridge Object Definition

The bridge object is the heart of the bridge modeler. The following is included in the
bridge object definition: a. The bridge spans are defined.
b. Deck section properties are assigned to each span.
c. Parametric deck section variations may be assigned to each span.
d. Abutment properties and skews are assigned.
e. Bent properties and skews are assigned.
f. Hinge locations, properties and skews are assigned.
g. Super elevations are assigned.
h. Prestressed tendons are defined.
Any time a bridge object definition is modified the linked model must be updated (see
step 9) for the changes to appear in the SAP2000 model.

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The prestress tendon quick start options allow quick and easy layout of prestressed
tendons. The prestress tendon parabolic calculator makes quick work of the layout of
parabolic prestress tendons.
To work within the Bridge Object menu, click on the modify/show bridge object using
Define/Bridge Object command. The Bridge Object menu should appear as shown in
Figure I.7.

Figure I.7: Bridge Object Menu

Next, click the on Modify/Show spans button. In this dialogue box, for Span 1, double
click on the span varies box. A Bridge section variation box will open. Double-click
on the variation for Total Depth box and select PVAR1 and click OK. Do the same for
the next span except select PVAR2 for the variation. See Figure I.6.
To apply a skew to the ends of the bridge, click on the Modify/Show Spans and simply
type in the bearing angle as shown in the dialog box in Figure I.10

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11

Figure I.8: Abutment Bearings

Bridge Prestress button and select Add new Tendon. Fill in a tendon area of 10 in2
and load force of 1500 kips. Select a Prestress load case. (To create a Prestress load
case, go to Define/Static Load Cases dialogue box.) Click on the Quick Start button
for vertical layout and select parabolic tendon 1 and click Ok twice. The tendon loss
parameters should also be defined.

Figure I.9: Tendon Definition

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CSI SAP2000 B RIDGE E XAMPLES

Once a single tendon has been defined, it can be copied to each of the concrete girder
locations by simply clicking on the Copy To All Girders command.

Figure I.10: Tendon Definition

The user can verify the location of the tendon graphically by selecting the the Show
All Tendons command and viewing the tendon profiles and locations.

I.13 Step 9: Update Linked Model

The update linked model command creates the SAP2000 object-based model from the
bridge object definition. If an object-based model of the bridge object already exists,
it will be deleted when the new object-based model is created using all of the latest
changes to the bridge object definition.
Spine models, area object models and solid object models of the bridge can be created
when the linked model is updated. The type of object-based model created from the
bridge object definition can be switched at any time.
Under the Bridge menu, select the Update Linked Bridge Model option. Then click on
the Update as Area Object option.

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Figure I.11: Update Linked Bridge Model Dialog Box

In Figure I.12, you can see the parametric variation along the length of the deck. You
can also view the tendons located inside the bridge deck by turning off the area object
fill if desired.

Figure I.12: Updated Linked Bridge Model

I.14 Step 10: Lane Definition

Lanes must be defined if you want to analyze your bridge for moving vehicle live loads.
Lanes can be defined with reference to either layout lines or existing frame objects. A
single lane is referenced to one or more layout lines or one or more frame objects.
Lanes can be defined with width if desired. Lanes are used in the definition of Moving
Load type analysis cases and in Bridge Live load cases. The SAP2000 Vehicle Live
Loader is complex. The user is strongly recommended to read Chapter XXVI, of the
Analysis Reference Manual.
For this example, click on the Add New Lane Defined From Layout Line button. Add
a lane at two stations. (0 ft and 220 ft) Each of these stations has the same centerline
offset (7ft) and lane width (14ft). Click OK. Next, add a copy of a lane and change

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offset by specified amount (-14ft).

Figure I.13: Lane Definition

I.15 Step 11: Vehicle Definition

Vehicles must be defined if you want to analyze your bridge for vehicle live loads. In
SAP2000 vehicles loads are applied to the structure through lanes.
If you plan to use a moving load type analysis case then you must also define one or
more vehicle classes. A vehicle class is simply a group of one or more vehicles for
which a moving load analysis is performed (one vehicle at a time).
Numerous standard vehicle definitions are built into the program. In addition the General Vehicle feature can be used to create your own vehicle definition. Each vehicle
definition consists of one or more concentrated and/or uniform loads.
Under the Bridge menu, select vehicles and click the Add Vehicle button. Add an
HSN-44-1 type vehicle and click OK. From the Bridge menu again, select the Vehicle
Classes option. Click Add New Class and select the HSN-44-1 vehicle and click Add.

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15

Figure I.14: Vehicle Definition

I.16 Step 12: Analysis Cases

Although any analysis case type can be used when analyzing your bridge, there are
several analysis options that are specialized for analysis of vehicle live loads.
Moving load analysis cases compute influence lines for various quantities and solve
all permutations of lane loading to obtain the maximum and minimum response quantities.
Multi-step static and multi-step dynamic (direct integration time history) analysis cases
can be used to analyze one or more vehicles moving across the bridge at any speed.
These multi-step analysis cases are defined using special Bridge Live Load Cases that
define the direction, starting time and speed of vehicles moving along lanes.
Under the Define/Analysis Casescommand, select the Add New Case. Under the analysis case type, select Moving Load and add the VECL1 vehicle class and click OK.

I.16.1 Creep and Shrinkage

Under the Define/Material Propertiescommand, select the concrete material property used in the deck property definition click Modify/Show Properties. Toggle the
Show Advanced Properties button and complete the Creep and Shrinkage properties
as shown in Figure I.15

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Figure I.15: Updated Linked Bridge Model

I.17 Results
I.17.1 Influence Surfaces

The influence lines can be displayed for the various displacements, reactions, forces,
moments, shears, torsion or axial loads on joints, frames, shells, planes, solids, solids,
and links resulting from a unit load on a defined bridge lane in the structure. As an example, after lanes have been defined and a moving analysis case has been defined and
run, select a column and use the Display/Show Influence Lines/Surfaces command to
display the Show Influence Lines/Surfaces form. See Figure I.16

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17

Figure I.16: Influence Surface Plot Options

Figure I.17: Influence Surface Plot for Axial Force of Bent Columns

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I.17.2 Bridge Forces and Stresses

You can view bridge forces and stresses for any load case. Use the Display/Show
Bridge Forces/Stressescommand to display the forces and stress in the bridge deck.
As an example, select the Stress,Longitudinal Stress - Top and Bottom - Center (S11)
for the prestress load case. The following plot can be viewed.

Figure I.18: Bridge Object Response Display

I.17.3 Section Cut Forces

There are two options available to define Section Cuts:
1. The first option is to define the location of the cut. Use the Define/Section
Cuts command to obtain resultant forces acting at section cuts through a model. Define
section cuts before or after an analysis is run; however, it is safest to wait until after
the analysis has been run. Typically, do not define section cuts, and more importantly,
the groups used in the section cut definition, until all manual meshing of the model (if
any) has been completed. If the groups are defined before manual meshing, some of
the point objects that should be in the group may not yet be created.
2. The second option is to manually draw the section cut on any portion of
the model. This can be by utilizing the Draw/Draw Section Cut command. You
must make sure that the model has been analyzed and you are viewing a member
force/stress diagram. This can be found under Display/Show Member Force/Stress
Diagramcommand by selecting either the frame or shell forces.

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To obtain shell forces on the bridge deck, go to Draw/Section Cut. Draw a line through
any portion of the structure that you would like to sum forces about. The flashing line
represents the section cut. Section Cut forces will then be visible on the screen.

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PART II
Steel Bridge

II.1 Steel Bridge Example 1.0

Figure II.1: Full Bridge

This Example is intended to help the new SAP2000 Bridge User navigate through the
program and is intended to get the new SAP2000 user familiar with the Bridge Module.
This example provides a step-by-step tutorial for the bridge model shown below. The
bridge model is broken down into five distinct steps using the file names Steel Bridge 1
through Steel Bridge 5. A copy of these input files can be obtained from Computer and

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Structures, Inc.
To begin the Example 1 steel bridge model we will initiate the SAP2000 program and
select a blank screen using Kip-Ft units and a single window. Then using the Bridge
pull down menu we will begin to define the first of three bridge objects that will be
used to complete this bridge example. Each of the bridge objects are shown below.

Sta

tion

Sta

tion

eO

n
tio
Sta

Brid

bj

1
ect

ge

Brid

11

00

2
ect

bj

12

00

FT

FT

ct

ge

Brid

je
Ob

00
10
FT

Figure II.2: Bridge Objects

II.2 Layout Line Definition

To define the first bridge object BOBJ1 we will first define the layout line properties.
From the Bridge>Layout Lines command we get the following dialog box:

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Figure II.3: Layout Line Definition

From the layout line menu the Quick Start menus can be used to define various curved,
straight or combined curved-straight shapes. For this example the bridge layout line
1(BLL1) will have a straight shape.

Figure II.4: Layout Quickdraw

Using the layout line dialog box shown in Figure 1.3 the end station is set at 1210 and
the start station is set at 990. Note that the bridge layout line is longer than the actual
bridge.

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II.3 Deck Section Definition

Using the Bridge>Bridge Deck SectionsAdd New Section command and selecting
the Steel and Concrete template the following dialog bow appears:

Figure II.5: Deck Section Definition

For this example four interior beams will be specified and the size of the bridge girders
will be assigned as W36X230. No other changes to this deck template will be made.
The bridge deck section will be given the default name of BSEC1.

II.4 Bridge Object 1 Definition

Using the BridgeBridge Object>Add New Bridge Object command the dialog box
shown below will appear. Using the Insert Below command and the Insert command
the Span1 and Span 2 information needs to be specified. Note that the bridge layout
line is longer than the length of the bridge object 1 (BOBJ1) being defined. For this
example the first abutment (Abut1) will be located at station 1000. A bent is placed at
station 1050 and at this stage of the model an end abutment (Abut3) is placed at station
1100. In later stages of this model creation, Abut3 will be moved back by ten feet and
in its place a free abutment will be used.

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Figure II.6: Bridge Object 1 (BOBJ1)

It will be important for the SAP2000 bridge user to become familiar with each of the
Bridge Object Assignment. Several of the assignment options will be used in this
example but the SAP2000 user is encouraged to explore the range of definitions that
are possible.

II.5 Create Linked Model

Using the Bridge>Update Linked Bridge Model> command the dialog box shown
below will appear. From the Structural Model Options the user can choose to work
with a Spine Model(frame) or an Area Object Model(shell). For this example each
will be used. The user can alternate as necessary between a frame model and shell
model. Starting with the spine model the Maximum Segment Lengths are set to five
feet.

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Figure II.7: Update Linked Bridge Model

Pressing the OK button returns the user to following view of BOBJ1:

Figure II.8: Spine Model BOBJ1

The spine model of BOBJ1 can be viewed in its extruded form using the View>Set
Display Options command and checking the Extruded option. The following image
can be rotated and displayed as follows:

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Figure II.9: Extruded View of Spine Model

At this stage of model creation the center bent has only a single column support and
the end abutment is defined as a single point restraint. The center bent has horizontal
girder located flush with the deck instead of being offset vertically. The bent and abutments will be further modified such that additional columns will be added to the bent
and point restraints will be added to each of the wide flange supports at the abutment.

Figure II.10: Modified Spine Model

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II.6 Modify Abutment Properties

Using the Bridge>Abutments command the ABUT1 properties can be modified using
the following dialog box:

Figure II.11: Abutment 1 Modified

All the translational and rotational degrees of freedom are set to fixed except the
translation in the U2 direction. Additionally, the horizontal location of the abutment
supports is set to each girder location. Diaphragms are added at the abutment by
selecting the include vertical diaphragm option.

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II.7 Modify Bent Properties

Using the Bridge>Bents command the BENT1 properties can be modified using the
following dialog box:

Figure II.12: Modified Bent

The reference point of the cap beam is set to 16.5ft which is half the width of the 33ft
wide deck section. The number of columns is set to 3 and the vertical diaphragms are
included. To define the column heights and locations the Modify/Show Column Data
button needs to be selected. upon doing so the following dialog box is displayed:

Figure II.13: Modify Bent Columns

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The column locations are set to 4, 16.5 and 29 with heights of 24, 27 and 30ft.

II.8 Modify Vertical Diaphragm Properties

Using the Bridge>Bridge Diaphragms command the bridge diaphragm property (BDIA1)
can be modified using the following dialog box:

Figure II.14: Cross Diaphragms Definition

Using the Chord and Brace option and using a W8X10 as the chord and brace member
sizes, the BDIA1 properties are modified.

II.9 Further Modify Bridge Object 1

Using the Bridge>Bridge Objects command the bridge object 1 (BOBJ1) can be modified using the following dialog box:

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Figure II.15: Bridge Object 1 (BOBJ1)

From this dialog box the Modify/Show Bents button can be selected and a value of -5ft
can be assigned to the vertical offset of the bent. Similarly, the Modify/Show Cross
Diaphragms button can be selected to add cross diaphragms at 25ft along span1 and
25ft along span2.

II.10 Update Linked Bridge Model

Using the Bridge>Update Linked Bridge Model command the BOBJ1 can be displayed again but now with the updated abutment, bent and cross diaphragm modification. Turning off the Extrude option and displaying the BOBJ1 as a spine model shows
the following:

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Figure II.16: Updated Spine Model

Not that the spine model above does not show the cross diaphragms. Updating the
linked bridge model as an area object model produces the following model:

Figure II.17: Updated Shell Model

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II.11 Analyze BOBJ1

The SAP2000 program has, as a default, an analysis case already defined DEAD and
MODAL. Running the model at this time will produce results for each of these default analysis cases. With the linked bridge model defined as a spine model the frame
member bending moments can be displayed as follows:

Figure II.18: Bridge Object 1 - Spine Model

Unlocking the model and changing the linked bridge model to area objects, the BOBJ1
model can be rerun. Below left are the F11 shell resultant forces. Below right the frame
member M33 moments are displayed.

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Figure II.19: M33 Moments

Displacements and mode shapes can be displayed as shown below:

Figure II.20: BOBJ1 Displacements

II.12 Live Loads

Using the Bridge>Lanes command the dialog box below can be used to define the
width and extent of various lanes over the bridge.

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Figure II.21: Lane Definitions

The first of two lanes is defined as having an end station of 1100ft and a beginning
station of 1000ft. the width of the lane is set at 12ft with an offset of 8ft and the color
is set to a shade of blue. The Lane Load Discretization is set at 5ft along the span and
10ft across the span. The second lane is defined as a copy of the first with an offset of
-16ft. The BOBJ1 can be shown with the lanes visible using the Display>Show Lanes
command.

Figure II.22: Display Lanes

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II.13 Add Vehicles

The SAP2000 Bridge Module has a variety of predefined auto, truck and train vehicles.
These can be found using the Bridge>Vehicles command. For this example the HS2044, HS2044l and AML vehicles will be selected and be added as General Vehicles as
shown below:

Figure II.23: Vehicle Definitions

Now that the vehicles have been defined the vehicles need to be assigned to a vehicle
class. This is necessary in order to have the vehicles assigned to a specific analysis
case which will be assign later. Using the Bridge>Vehicle Class command the three
general vehicles are assigned to a vehicle class names HS.

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Figure II.24: Vehicle Class Definitions

II.14 Add Analysis Case

Using the Define>Analysis Cases command a new analysis case MOVE1 will be
added.

Figure II.25: MOVE1 Analysis Case

In the dialog box below the Analysis Case Name is set to MOVE1, the Analysis Case
Type is set to Moving Load and the Vehicle Class is set to HS. Every permutation of
vehicle classes operating in traffic lanes that is permitted by the entries in this table
will be considered in the analysis.

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Figure II.26: Analysis Case MOVE1 Definition

With the MOVE1 analysis case now defined the model can be run. If the model is run
as a spine model (See previous Section xx)and a combination COMB1 is defined as
DEAD plus MOVE1 the resulting M3 moments can be displayed.

Figure II.27: Combination Dead and MOVE1

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With the MOVE1 analysis case now defined the model can be run. If the model is run
as a spine model (See previous Section xx)and a combination COMB1 is defined as
DEAD plus MOVE1 the resulting M3 moments can be displayed.

Figure II.28: COMB1 - Frame M3 Moments

Figure II.29: Influence Surfaces

With the MOVE1 analysis case now defined the model can be run. If the model is run
as a spine model (See previous Section xx)and a combination COMB1 is defined as
DEAD plus MOVE1 the resulting M3 moments can be displayed.

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Figure II.30: Response Display

It is recommended that the new SAP2000 Bridge User spend some time reviewing
the analysis results for the MOVE1 load case and examine various individual member
forces and stresses. The user can compare this results of this model with the results of
the Steel Bridge PR model that has been provided. Upon completion of the analysis
the current model should be saved as Steel Bridge 3

II.15 Add Trucks with Speed and Direction

Using the Define>Load Cases command two moving loads will be added. The first
moving load case will be named moving and will be assigned the as follows:

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Figure II.31: Moving Load Case Definition

The menu above allows the user to assign a specific vehicle to a specific lane traveling
with a specific direction starting at a specific time. For the load case defined named
moving, three trucks are set in motion, two in lane one and one in lane two, with the
start times of 0, 7 and 3 seconds. The speeds are defined as 44, 44 and 22 feet per
second and the truck in lane two has been assigned a backward direction. Below, a
second loads case is given the name move and consists of three vehicles assigned to
lane one with staggered start times of 0, 5 and 9 sec. The speeds are different for each
vehicle with the assignments of 44,88 and 176 feet per second.

Figure II.32: Move Load Case Definition

Next, the analysis cases are defined using the Define>Analysis Cases command. The
move case and the moving case are added to the existing DEAD, MODAL and

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MOVE1 cases using the Add New Case command. For the moving case the Analysis Case Type is set to Multi-step Static. This analysis case will produce an analysis
result for each step of the applied load as it has been defined in the Load Case definition.

Figure II.33: Multi-step moving Analysis Case Definition

The analysis case move will be analyzed using a time-history analysis method. This
will allow the user to examine the vibratory response of the bridge for each of the trucks
which are traveling at different speeds. To define the time-history case the following
dialog box is modified as follows:

Figure II.34: Move Time-History Analysis case Definition

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For the time-history load case a damping value of 2% has been specified by selecting
the Damping>ShowModify button and assigning the values as:

Figure II.35: Damping Assignments for Time History Case

To view the shell stresses for the moving load case the SAP2000 user can use the
Display>Show Forces/Stresses>Shells and selecting the moving load case, F11
resultant forces with the multivalued option set to step 1 the graphic display will
show the unstressed bridge deck. To see the deck stresses the user can simply step
through the various analysis output steps that SAP has saved as part of the multistepped analysis. Stepping through the F11 force graphic shows the following:

Figure II.36: F11 Resultant Forces for Moving Case

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Figure II.37: Axial Frame Forces for Moving Case

In lieu of stepping through the output manually, the SAP2000 user can create an AVI
or movie file. This is done by selecting the File>Create Viedo>Create Multi-step
Animation Video. When the following window appears the user needs to select the
moving load case. The image below was created with a magnification of 10 and a
speed of 10 frames per second.

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Figure II.38: Create AVI Video

To view the time-history results the SAP2000 user can use the Display>Show Plot
Functions command.

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Figure II.39: Time History Plot Function

After selecting a joint, in this case joint 144, the following dialog box is used to select
the move load case and define the desired plot function. For this example the U2
displacements are plotted below:

Figure II.40: U2 Displacements for the Move TH Analysis

This plot shows the third vehicle, t=9sec, inducing a larger dynamic response than the

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two previous vehicles, t=0 and t=5 sec.

II.16 Add Bridge Extensions

Before proceeding with changes to the model it is recommended that the current model
now be saved as Steel Bridge 4. If necessary this model can be compared to the model
provided.
Adding the two narrower bridge extensions will consist of defining a new free abutment, defining an additional bridge deck section, defining a new curved layout line,
modifying BOBJ1 and adding two new bridge objects. These steps can be broken
down as follows:
1. Using the Bridge>Abutments command add a new abutment with the name
AbutFree. Set all restraint degrees of freedom to free
2. Add a new bridge deck using the same bridge template as before except that
the width of the deck is defined as 18 feet wide and the number of interior girders used
is set to one. Offset the Insertion Pt in the local-y dir by 9ft.
3. Add copy of Bent1 and call it Bent2. Edit the width to be 15ft, the reference
point set at 7.5ft and a single column located at 7.5ft with a height of 27ft.
4. Add a copy of the Layout Line 1 and name it BLL2. The Quick Start button
can be used and the Curved Right option should be selected. The Initial Y dimension needs to be set at -18ft.
5. Modify BOBJ1 as follows:

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Figure II.41: BOBJ1 Modified

6. Add copy of BOBJ1 and name it BOBJ2 and modify as follows:

1. Span4 Span to Abutment @ 1200 Abut5
2. Span3 Spans to Bent @ 1145 Bent4
3. Split Start @ 1100 Split
4. Modify Spans: Set spans to the BSEC2 property
5. Modify Abutments: Assign the AbutFree property ABUT2
6. Modify Bents: Assign BENT to have a horizontal offset of 9ft and a drop of -5
7. Modify Diaphragms: Add BDIA1 to Span3 @ 22.4 and Span4 @ 27.5.
The BOBJ2 dialog box should appear as follows:

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Figure II.42: Bridge Object 2 BOBJ2

7. Add a copy of BOBJ1 and name it BOBJ3 with the following modifications:
a. Split, Start @ 1100 Split
b. Span3, Span to Bent @ 1145 Bent2
c. Span4, Span to Abutment @ 1200 Abut5
d. Modify Spans, change to BSEC2
e. Modify Abutments, change to ABUT2, ABUT1
f. Modify bents, change to BENT2 @ 9, -5
g. Modify diaphragms, properties BDIA1, Span3 @ 22.5, Span4 @ 27.5
h. Update Bridge model and mesh at 5ft

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i. Modify Superelevations, BBL2 to have 0 @ 1100 and 10% @ 1200

When the edits above are completed the BOBJ3 dialog box should appear as follows:

Figure II.43: Bridge Object 3 BOBJ3

II.17 Completed Model

The Steel Bridge - Example 1 is now complete and ready for analysis. It is recommended that the new SAP2000 Bridge User spend some time viewing the results to
gain a better understanding of the program capabilities. The results can be checked
against the models provided.

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Figure II.44: Full Model Complete

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II.18 Final Analysis

Figure II.45: Full Model - Shell Stresses

With the bridge complete the user can run the final bridge configuration and look at
the analysis results.

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PART III
cablestayed Bridge

III.1 Cable stayed Bridge Example

Figure III.1: Full Bridge

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This bridge model is intended to demonstrate the SAP2000 Staged Construction Analysis using a cablestayed bridge as an illustrative example. This example provides a
step-by-step tutorial for the staged construction analysis case. A copy of the input file
can be obtained from Computer and Structures, Inc.

III.2 Description of Cable stayed Bridge

This cable stayed bridge example consists of a concrete bridge deck that is supported
by cable stays which in turn are supported by a center pylon. The bridge is analyzed
for dead, modal and stage construction loadings.

III.3 Description of Model

The bridge is modeled using a concrete deck section that defined as a hollow box
section having a width of 6 meters and a depth of 1.2 meters. The deck spans on
each side of the pylon are are divided into ten segments that are assigned separate
group names which are used to define the staged construction sequence. The concrete
assigned to the deck section has been defined using nonlinear material properties to
model creep and shrinkage. The center pylon is nonprismatic with a top diameter of
0.6 meters and a base diameter of 1.2 meters. The cables connect from the bridge deck
to special joints on the pylon.
No live loads are included in this example.

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Figure III.2: Bridge Objects

III.4 Nonlinear Material Property Definition

Using theDefine>Materials/ command we get the following dialog box:

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Figure III.3: Material Property Definition

The Show Advanced Material Properties box needs to be selected to provide

the user with the option to define the Advanced Material Property Data. For this example the Time Dependent Properties option was selected which gives the user the
following dialog box:

Figure III.4: Time Dependent Properties for Concrete

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III.5 Cable Property Definition

Using the Define>Cable Sections command we get the following dialog box:

Figure III.5: Layout Line Definition

The cable diameter is specified as 0.05 meters. The cable properties are calculated using the specified diameter. Similarly, the cable properties can be determined if
the user specifies the cable area.

III.6 Deck Section Definition

Using the Define>Frame Section>Add Box Section command the bridge deck is
defined having a width of 6 meters and a depth of 1.2 meters with the wall thicknesses
of the webs and flanges as 0.3 and 0.2 meters, respectively.

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Figure III.6: Layout Line Definition

III.7 Pylon Section Definition

Using the Define>Frame Section>Add Pipe Sectioncommand the section property
PYLTOP is defined as a pipe section with a diameter of 0.6 meters and a wall thickness of 0.05 meters. The section property PYLBOT is defined as a pipe section with a
diameter of 1.2 meters and a wall thickness of 0.05 meters. Using the Define>Frame
Section>Add Nonprismatic command the pylon section is defined as nonprismatic
having the section property PYLBOT at the start station and PYLBOT at the end station. The SAP2000 user need only select the base point while using the frame draw
command and drag the pointer to the top point of the pylon to place the pylon into the
model.

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Figure III.7: Bridge Object 1 (BOBJ1)

With the pylon placed into the model the model will appear as follows:

Figure III.8: Bridge Object 1 (BOBJ1)

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III.8 Model Creation

Using the xy command and then using the up or down arrows, the X-Y Plane @ Z=0
can be displayed. Several methods can be used to draw the deck elements, offset nodes
and rigid links. One way this can is to draw the deck section along the x axis using
the Draw Frame command. The deck property is selected and the member is initially
drawn from one end to the pylon and then from the pylon to the opposite end. The deck
sections can then be selected and divided into 10 segments each for a total of twenty
segments(ten on each side of the pylon). A fixed joint restraint has been assigned to
the pylon base and the deck end restraints have been assigned as uy , uz , rx , rz . The
model now appears as follows:

Figure III.9: Bridge Object 1 (BOBJ1)

The offset nodes that will be used to connect the cables to the bridge deck can be
drawn using the Draw Special Joint command. An offset of 3 m and -3 m in the ydirection can be used to create a single pair of nodes located at x=-90 m. Next, a rigid
link can be drawn connecting each of these nodes to the deck node at x=-90 m. Using
the Replicate command, these nodes and links can be replicated in the x-direction 18
times to provide points of connection for the cable elements. The replicate command
will create a pair of nodes and links at the pylon as well but this particulat pair of nodes
and links are not needed and should be deleted. The deck, nodes and links now look
like follows:

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Figure III.10: Segmented Deck with Offset Nodes and Links

Next, the draw special joint command can be used to place nine special joints along
the upper portion of the pylon. These special joints are to be located 2 m apart with
the uppermost special joint located 4 m from the top of the pylon. Using the offset
command, the first special joint can be drawn 4 m below the top of the pylon and the
other 8 joints can be easily replicated with a spacing of 2 m. With the special joints in
place the cable elements can now be drawn. For this example a cable diameter of 0.05
m was used. Using the Draw Frame/ Cable Element command, the cables can be
added by snapping to the start and end joint of each cable and inserting the appropriate
parameters. After the end node is selected the following dialog box appears:

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Figure III.11: Cable Parameters

Specifying the Cable Type as Tension At I-End allows the user to control the initial
drape of the cable. A tension amount must be specified if this option is selected.
The cable element uses an elastic catenary formulation to represent the behavior of a
slender element under self weight, temperature and strain loading. This behavior is
highly nonlinear and inherently includes p-delta and large displacement geometry. It
is highly recommended that the user read the Cable Element chapter in the Analysis
Reference Manual.

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Figure III.12: Cables Complete

III.9 Group Assignments

Before a staged analysis case can be defined, the user must first decide how the structure is going to be assembled. Therefore, the user must define unique groups that
represent stages in the construction sequence. Then the data for each stage, namely,
the operation being performed, the objects affected, the age of any added sections,
loading and any scale factors, can be defined using the staged construction analysis
case. For this example, the pylon is intended to be constructed first followed by the
placement of adjacent 10 m deck sections with the respective cable pairs. The Group
1 elements are identified below.

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Figure III.13: Group 1 Definition

Using the Select command and the Assign/ Define Group Names command the user
can define all ten pairs of deck and cable groups along with a group named, Pylon, that
contains only the pylon element for a total of eleven groups.

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Figure III.14: Group 2 Definition

III.10 Staged Construction Analysis Case

By selecting the Define/Analysis Cases command the user needs to add a new case.
The Analysis Case Type shall be Static and the Analysis Type shall be Nonlinear
Staged Construction. The user can then begin to develop the analysis case by defining
the various stages along with the data for each stage. For the dialog box below, the data
for the 6th stage is show. The user can see that Group 5is being added along with the
dead load of group 5.

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Figure III.15: Group 2 Definition

For this example, the nonlinear creep and shrinkage effects are included in the analysis. If desired, the creep effects can be studied for the for any period of time after
completion of the structure. This can be done by adding additional stages having the
Duration input specifying the appropriate number of days. In this example stage 12
is aged 10 additional days. Stage 18 that is aged 10000 additional days. Stages 13
through 17 vary from 30 to 3000 days bringing the total number of days that the model
is aged to 14,473 days.

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APPENDIX

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A PPENDIX A
Mesh Transitioning and Compatibility
The Automated Line Constraint
Ashraf Habibullah1 , S.E.
M. Iqbal Suharwardy2 , S.E., Ph.D.

A.1

Introduction

In the application of the Finite Element Analysis Method, the most time consuming
task is usually the creation and modification of the finite element mesh of the system.
Not to mention the fact that creation of mesh transitions from coarse to fine meshes
can be very tedious. Also matching up node points to create compatible meshes at
intersecting planes, such as walls and floors can be very labor intensive. And even if
the mesh generation is automated the mesh transitioning usually produces irregular or
skewed elements that may perform poorly. This may have adverse effects on the design, especially in regions of stress concentration, such as in the vicinity of intersecting
planes.
The object based modeling environment of ETABS & SAP2000 clearly addresses these time-consuming shortcomings of the Finite Element Method.
In the object-based modeling environment the Engineer generates the structural
model by creating only a few large area objects that physically define the structural
units such as wall panels, floors or ramps. The finite element mesh is not explicitly
created by the user, but is automatically generated by assigning meshing parameters
to the area objects. These parameters may include variables, such as mesh size, mesh
spacing and mesh grading among others. With this capability the engineer can study
the effects of mesh refinement by just defining a few control parameters. The new
model with the desired level of refinement is thus created with minimal effort.
If the meshes on common edges of adjacent area objects do not match up, automated line constraints are generated along those edges. These Line Constraints enforce displacement compatibility between the mismatched meshes of adjacent objects
and eliminate the need for mesh transition elements.
1 President
2 Director

& CEO, Computers & Structures, Inc.

of Research & Development, Computers & Structures, Inc.

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What makes this technology really powerful is that while making modifications
to the model the Engineer need only be concerned about the few large physical objects
of the structure. The modified finite element analytical model gets recreated automatically with any changes to the base objects.
The following examples are designed to illustrate the power and practicality of
this technology.

A.2

Example 1: Simply Supported Plate (Mismatched

Meshing)

As illustrated in Figure A.1, this is a model of a simply supported plate, which has been
modeled in two different ways. In one case the mesh is uniform across the plate and in
the other case the mesh is fine on one half of the plate and coarse on the other half of
the plate. In the latter case, an interpolating line constraint is automatically generated
to enforce displacement compatibility between the adjacent halves of the plate where
the mesh does not match. As shown in the figure, correlation between the two models
is very good.

Figure A.1: Simply Supported Plate with Mismatching Edges

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A.3

M ESH T RANSITIONING , C OMPATIBILITY, AND L INE C ONSTRAINT

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Example 2: Curved Ramp Supported by Curved

Wall

This example, Figure A.2, illustrates the use of Line Constraints to capture the interaction of a curved shear wall supporting a curved ramp. Notice that there are no joints at
the points where the ramp element edges intersect the wall element edges. Displacement compatibility along the lines of intersection of the ramp and the wall is enforced
automatically by the generation of Line Constraints along those lines. Notice how the
application of Line Constraints allows the wall and ramp mesh to retain a simple rectangular (or quadrilateral) configuration. A conventional finite element model would
be very irregular because it would need all the additional joints (and corresponding
elements) to allow for the ramp element and wall element edge intersections.

A.4

Example 3: Floor Slab Shear Wall Compatibility

This example, Figure A.3, illustrates a 3D Concrete Flat Plate Building with shear
walls and an elevator core. Again, in this model, Line Constraints automatically appear at the lines where the floor and wall objects intersect. This, of course, as in
previous examples, will enforce displacement compatibility when mesh geometries do
not match. As shown in the deformed shape of the Elevator Core, in many places the
wall meshing does not match the floor meshing. All elements meeting at common
edges, however, still show no displacement incompatibilities, even though the element
nodes do not coincide.

A.5

Example 4: Shear Wall Spandrel Transition

This example, Figure A.4, models a Shear wall Spandrel System, illustrating mesh
transitioning from the spandrel to the shear wall. Line Constraints are generated as
needed in any direction. In this case the Line Constraints are vertical as well as horizontal.

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Figure A.2: Curved Ramp Supported by Curved Wall

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Figure A.3: Floor Slab Shear Wall Compatibility

Figure A.4: Shear Wall Spandrel Transition

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Computers and Structures Inc. [2006a], ETABS Three Dimensional Analysis of

Building Systems, Berkeley, California. Technical Reference Manual.
Computers and Structures Inc. [2006b], SAP2000 Integrated Structural Analysis
and Design Software, Berkeley, California. Technical Reference Manual.
Computers and Structures Inc. [2006c], Website, www.computersandstructures.com.
See the latest web contents.

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ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Robert Tovani, PE, SE: Robert Tovani has twenty-five years of experience in structural analysis, design, project management, and construction administration. He
is currently president of Engineering Analysis Corporation and an employee of
Computer and Structures, Inc. Mr. Tovani received his Bachelors and Masters
of Science Degrees for the University of California, Berkeley and is licensed in
California as a Civil and Structural Engineer.
Mr. Tovani has developed an extensive background in computer-aided analysis
and design. His analysis background includes work on a variety of structures
using linear and nonlinear analysis of new and existing structures in static and
dynamic loading environments. He has developed computer models on high rise
structures in excess of 100 stories and has provided design work on a variety
of structural framing types including base isolation and other complex framing
systems. Mr. Tovani has been using the SAP and ETABS computer programs
for over twenty-five years and has worked at CSI providing training, analysis
and modeling assistance to CSI and Engineering Analysis clients. Recently,
Mr. Tovani has provided detailed SAP2000 Bridge Training Seminars.
Atif Habibullah, PE: Atif Habibullah has extensive experience using CSI products,
having worked in CSIs Software Support department for five years. For the past
two years, Atif has helped instruct engineers through CSI Educational Services
training seminars. He has a strong background in modeling a variety of structural
systems, solving special modeling problems and in the interpretation of analysis
results. Prior to working at CSI, Atif worked at a leading design firm for 4 years
using CSI products, particularly in the design of multi-story steel and concrete
building structures such as hospitals, office buildings, towers, bridges, stadiums
and dams.

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