Parametric study and dynamic response analysis of three single curved discrete pontoon floating bridges

Abstract

In this paper, three curved floating bridge concepts with a uniform span of 500 m and different radii of curvature are proposed for the crossing of the coastal waters in Singapore. The bridge girder is supported by 4 pontoons along the bridge length and the two ends are connected to the shore. Three different girder cross-sections are considered. Static analysis is first carried out considering the bridge's self-weight, water current forces and various tidal conditions. Next, eigen value and regular wave analyses are performed to assess the effect of bridge radius, cross-sectional rigidity and end connection on the bridge behaviour. Based on the results, several bridge configurations are selected for further study. Finally, irregular wave analysis is carried out to investigate the realistic bridge performance under operational and extreme environmental conditions. Conclusions are drawn based on the simulation results. Recommendations on the design parameters for further investigations are made.