Patent ID: 6470524
Filing Date: 2002-10-29
Classification: E01D

Abstract:
A method for constructing a composite bridge structure comprising the following steps:erecting at least one prestressed beam of substantially uniform profile provided with upwardly projecting shear stirrups to span a distance between abutments; transversely disposing a plurality of precast concrete slabs of substantially uniform profile provided with downwardly projecting shear stirrups on top of said prestressed beam such that overlapping occurs between said upwardly projecting and downwardly projecting shear stirrups for transfer of shear forces between said prestressed beams and said precast concrete slabs, wherein said precast concrete slabs remain upwardly spaced at a desired distance from said prestressed beam by a plurality of temporary support means such that a gap defining a cavity is created, horizontally extending between said prestressed beam and said precast concrete slabs; connecting adjacent pairs of said precast concrete slabs by respective joints to form a continuous deck structure; prestressing said upwardly spaced continuous deck structure independently of said prestressed beam, in a direction that is substantially parallel to said prestressed beam, said independent prestressing being enabled by said plurality of temporary support means; closing said cavity with framework; and casting in situ within an entire volume of said cavity a continuous concrete layer between said independently prestressed deck structure and said prestressed beam to form a composite section, such that transfer of said shear transfer forces is enabled between said deck structure and said prestressed beam via said concrete layer, said composite section comprising said at least one prestressed beam, said continuous deck structure, said shear stirrups and said concrete layer.