Study of computer aided design for cable-stayed bridges

CAD software for bridge engineering is developed fast in China in recent years. Here in the paper, a new piece of CAD software for cable-stayed bridges is introduced. Based on the bridge information model, the basic concept of the framework for the software is designed. Some key issues are discussed on pre-processor, analysis kernel and design procedures. First in the pre-processor, the modeling techniques are introduced; section generators for different sections are planed. Load considerations for bridges are discussed in detail. In the modular of analysis, discussions are focused on the constructional staged simulation flow for cable-stayed bridges. In the design modular, the design procedures for different types of members are listed, and the architecture of the design modular is organized to satisfy the complicated design requirements. Verifications are carried out for each modular to prove the application convenience of the software and the correctness of the kernels for analysis and design.