Conceptual and preliminary design efforts motivated the full-scale experimental characterization of different components, assemblies, and complete bridge systems. Analytical and design tools and procedures at the section and system level based on the flexure and shear response of the proposed concepts have been developed and validated experimentally. System design issues related to load distribution, dynamic characterization, and seismic response have been investigated for the proposed FRP bridge concepts leading to design recommendations supported by full-scale experimental results. Bridge system characterization and optimization studies are presented to support the development of design criteria based on deformations and strain limit states under permanent, service, and factored loads. The developed technology is being applied to two bridges in different stages of completion.
Data sets are complex and multidimensional.
CRD has been using PCs in its research efforts for several years. The power, speed, and flexibility of the hardware have increased to the point that it is difficult to distinguish our PCs from UNIX workstations. Much of the work now done at CRD has been enhanced with the introduction of high-end PCs. Computing on these machines is easier than on UNIX workstations because of the PC's superior capability, per dollar, in both hardware and software, in addition to the greater variety of commercial software available. Only governmental computing installations seem to have enough disk space and CPU power to manipulate this data affordably.