Multiscale Numerical Modeling of Steel Bridge Deck Pavements Considering Vehicle-Pavement Interaction

Cracking is a major distress in steel bridge deck pavements. To determine the critical cracking zone, a numerical multiscale structural analysis was proposed and performed on the basis of a case study. First, a whole bridge model was analyzed, which revealed that the critical segment under critical load combination was one-fourth of the bridge span. Second, the critical segment was modeled using the finite mixed element method, and the critical local plate was determined. Third, using a submodel technique, the critical orthotropic steel plate with pavement was analyzed. The constructed model was then updated through an equivalent impact factor obtained from a numerical model analysis that considered vehicle-pavement interaction. From such multiscale model analysis, the crack distribution law of steel deck pavements was determined. Comparison of the analysis results from a traditional model with the multiscale model revealed the non-negligible effects of bridge structure and pavement evenness. Findings from this study may provide guidance for improving the preservation practice of steel deck pavements.