Automated Truck Platooning–Bridge Interaction: Assessing Dynamic Impacts on Drilled Shaft Foundations

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the impact of automated truck platooning on bridge safety and serviceability, with a particular focus on the dynamic effects on bridge substructures. Automated truck platooning allows multiple trucks to travel in close proximity at high speeds, reducing aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption. However, concerns arise about the increased load effects on bridges, necessitating a thorough examination of their safety implications. Previous studies have mainly focused on the static load capacity of bridge superstructures under platoon traffic, identifying the inadequacy of existing design standards; this study expands on that by examining the dynamic impacts of truck platoons on bridge substructures. It specifically assesses the risk of pile foundation settlement under varied platoon configurations and operational parameters, such as driving velocity, number of trucks, and headway spacing. The methodology incorporates vehicle–bridge interaction simulations for dynamic load analysis, soil–structure interaction modeling for load–displacement characterization, and reliability assessments to determine the service limit state of pile shafts. Ultimately, the analysis results seek to inform the development of recommendations for truck platooning safety regulations and bridge management to ensure the safe implementation of platooning technology.