A theoretical calculation method of irregular bridge span pontoon connected by elastic hinges

In this paper, a theoretical calculation method that can be generally applied to responses analysis of irregular bridge span pontoon connected by elastic hinges was proposed based on the elastic foundation beam theory. This method can solve the displacements, rotation angles, bending moments and shear forces of pontoon bridge under vertical static loads. By comparing with the experimental and numerical results in other researches, the correctness and universality of theoretical method are verified. The main response characteristics of the pontoon bridge under vertical static loads are further investigated based on a detailed case study, which contrasts the results of three methods including the theoretical method in this paper, AQWA software and FEM. The results reveal that the rotation stiffness of elastic hinges has a great influence on the responses of the pontoon bridge. The elastic deformation of the pontoon units can be ignored when the rotation stiffness of hinges is small, while it needs to be considered seriously when the rotation stiffness of hinges reaches a certain value. Besides, the flexural rigidity of pontoon bridge also has a sensitive influence on the numerical results. The theoretical method can provide for the optimal design of the pontoon bridge and has significant engineering application prospects.