Performance-based design criteria developed for the new Tacoma Narrows Suspension Bridge as well as aspects of the seismic analysis of the bridge required to verify compliance with the design criteria are presented. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge is located in the Seattle-Tacoma area of the state of Washington, a region of high seismicity capable of producing earthquakes of Richter and moment magnitude of 8 or larger. Project-specific performance-based design criteria were developed to ensure that prescribed levels of seismic resistance were provided at a reasonable cost. The performance-based design criteria stipulated that nonlinear time-history analysis should be used to verify that the performance goals were achieved. Analysis subjects discussed include soil-structure interaction, caisson rocking, and finite element modeling of various bridge components. It is demonstrated that seismic goals specified by performance-based design criteria are achievable for bridges in high seismic regions through the use of proper analysis techniques.
Samenvatting