Desenvolvimento de uma metodologia de análise para avaliação estrutural dinâmica não determinística de pontes rodoviárias via utilização da linguagem de programação Python

Abstract

The dynamic analysis of bridges is essential to ensure the safety and performance of these structures under the actions imposed by vehicle traffic. Neglecting such effects can lead to significant issues, such as excessive displacements, vibrations, stresses, and, in extreme cases, structural failures. This research work presents an advanced methodology for evaluating vehicle-bridge interaction, considering road surface irregularities and pavement deterioration. To this end, the VBIPy (Vehicle-Bridge Interaction Python) program was developed, integrating the finite element software ANSYS with the Python programming language. The program enhances and advances the previous analysis methodology (ANSYS-MATLAB) by utilizing object-oriented programming and multiprocessing (parallel processing), enabling more detailed and efficient dynamic structural analyses, particularly in terms of computational time. As a case study, the structural design of a simply supported composite steel-concrete road bridge, with a total span of 40 m, was investigated to evaluate the dynamic response and the performance of VBIPy. The results highlight the critical influence of road surface irregularities and pavement deterioration on the dynamic structural behavior. These findings emphasize the need to alert structural engineers to such challenges, aiming to provide guidance for the design and maintenance of safer and more efficient road bridges.