Mathematical Modelling of Cable-Stayed Bridges

Modern cable-stayed bridge construction involves the assembly of an almost unlimited variety of deck, pylon and cable elements together, in a multitude of different ways. For their static and dynamic analyses, the application of accurate and efficient mathematical models are essential. This paper presents various methods for modelling components of cable-stayed bridges, i.e., the cables, deck, pylon and joints, as well as the assembly of these components into a complete bridge model for general computer analysis. The use of appropriate finite elements for detailed analysis of deck units is also presented.