Dynamic Loading Effect Testing of a Modular Truss Bridge: Procedures and Resultant Data Set

Abstract

Experimental bridge testing often produces large data sets that may have applicability to many analysis goals within bridge engineering. To ensure the persistence of these records for future analysis, it is essential to properly collect, organize, and define data. A field-testing program was developed to capture the dynamic loading response of a simply supported, modular-construction bridge to medium and very heavy military vehicle loads that included detailed instrumentation layout and nomenclature assignments, deck surface condition simulators, and iterative tracked and wheeled vehicle testing plans. The result was a complete data set that includes adequate information to achieve various analysis objectives. This data set, and the process through which it was gathered, have the potential to increase the knowledge base related to the behavior of modular truss bridges, dynamic bridge effects in civilian and military contexts, and may generate results that could significantly improve mobility for select military vehicle types.