Vibration Analysis of 3D Timoshenko Beams Subjected to Moving Vehicles

This study solves the three-dimensional (3D) dynamic interaction problem between simply supported Timoshenko beams and vehicles by using theoretical equations. The model includes intermediate supports, so train-rail-soil interaction can be analyzed. The vehicle equations are formed by using a matrix method by the assemblage of spring-dampers and rigid links, and the bridge formulations are decoupled using the modal method. The Newmark method is then used to analyze these vehicle-bridge equations. Variable speed, road irregularities, vehicle eccentricities, and multiple vehicles are considered. The comparison of the beam displacements between the current and finite-element methods indicates that the accuracy of this method is acceptable. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)EM.1943-7889.0000276. (C) 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers.