Contact-Element Model for Dynamic Analysis of Jointed Concrete Pavements

Abstract

A finite-element algorithm is developed to analyze the dynamic response of multiple, jointed concrete pavements to moving aircraft loads. In the finite-element idealization, the pavement-subgrade system is idealized by thin-plate finite elements resting on a Winkler-type viscoelastic foundation represented by a series of distributed springs and dashpots. The dowel bars at the transverse joints are represented by plane frame elements. The dowel-pavement interaction effects are accounted for by employing contact elements between the pavement and the dowel bar. Keyed joint or aggregate interlock joint is assumed for the longitudinal joint and is represented by vertical spring elements. The dynamic aircraft-pavement interaction effects are considered in the analysis by modeling the aircraft by masses supported by spring-dashpot systems representing the landing gear of the aircraft. The accuracy of the computer code developed is verified by the available experimental and analytical solutions. A parametric study is conducted to investigate the effects of various parameters on the dynamic response of pavements.