Requirements of technical standards for the dynamic analysis of the load-bearing structures of footbridges

Abstract

The load-bearing structures of footbridges are designed to be slender and feature spans of considerable length. It can be expected that the natural frequencies of such load-bearing structures range from 0.5 Hz to 5.0 Hz. These low natural frequencies are problematic as regards the effects caused by the dynamic component of wind or the movement of persons. Increased acceleration values can lead to the serviceability limit state of structures being exceeded or the heightening of stress which can result in damage to the structure mainly in the area of details prone to fatigue. The contribution deals with the requirements concerning the execution of dynamic analyses which are listed in the relevant technical standards. It will present procedures for the determination of dynamic loading, methods of solving dynamic tasks as well as design criteria enabling delicate bridge structures to be designed correctly.