The Effect of Pedestrian Traffic on the Dynamic Behavior of Footbridges

Abstract

The dynamic response of a footbridge depends namely on the natural frequencies of the structure in vertical, in horizontal and in torsion. If any of the frequencies in vertical is in the range 1.0 Hz to 3.0 Hz, the dynamic response from moving people can be significant. In this case it is necessary to calculate vibrations taking into account both serviceability and ultimate limit states. The same problem arises when any of the frequencies in horizontal (transversal) or in torsion are in the range 0.5 Hz to 1.5 Hz. Such frequencies haveare found namely in footbridges with larger spans or cable-stayed and suspension footbridges.A unique cable-stayed footbridge with prestressed concrete was dynamically analyzed and the dynamic response to simulated pedestrian loading was calculated. The calculated effects were compared with the pedestrian comfort criteria for serviceability limit states. These criteria are defined in terms of maximum acceptable acceleration of the bridge deck.