Application of simplified capacity spectrum method to bridge structure

In order to study the precision of simplified capacity spectrum method, one actual continuous bridge was analyzed with this method, which describes the actual application procedure. Firstly, a model of computing the simplified transverse single pier is set up. The model is deduced and analyzed with the SAP 2000 finite element sequence, and a capacity spectrum is obtained. Then response spectrums of three different seismic records are transformed to those required by ADRS format, and they are all plotted in the same coordinates drawing. The intersection of the two kinds of curves stands for the elastic response of the corresponding earthquake. And then the corresponding elastic response of the structure can also be obtained. The same computing model and the three seismic vibration acceleration rate records are analyzed with the nonlinear time history analysis methodology. The results are compared with those of the simplified capacity spectrum method. It can be concluded that the simplified capacity spectrum method can attain relatively precise structural nonlinear responses with less calculation work. With different expressions of Rμ-μ-T used, one can get results of precision at different level.