Modelling bridge elastomeric bearings

[sergey.churilov]

Hi to all,

Can you propose a method for modelling the connection between bridge deck and bridge columns if it was supposed to be achived by elastomeric bearings?

Is maybe 'Compatible nodes' an option? If yes, how to define the properties, maybe elastic compatible nodes, or something else?

The model shall be used for modal, spectral and TH analysis.

Thank you.

[Rafacascudo]

I use elastic bar releases.

[sergey.churilov]

I forgot to mention that the model should be shell model, so bar releases will not do the job.

[Rafacascudo]

Maybe you can use small bars conecting the shells(columm/Beam) and in these bars you use the elastic releases.

Can you show a picture of you model?

[sergey.churilov]

I do not have the model yet, but suppose the deck is r.c. slab laying over wall-type columns, as shown in the following picture.

[Rafacascudo]

I would use those small bars to connect the deck and columm elasticaly .

And you also can create rigid links on the bar end nodes connecting the shell nodes to simulate the bearings width.